I have a need to connect various stainless steel tubes and fitting together and was wondering how to do it. I know a TIG welder is an option but have heard rumors that there is a way to solder it in much the same way you affix copper pipe. Perhaps with higher heat and different flux. I need step by step and maybe suppliers of the materials. Thanks in advance and please I do not need the call a plumber answers as I've gotten in the past
ss has to be either welded or brazed you can [solder ] it but it has to be a silver solder, and will not have any strength
Compression Ferrel connections are the best. for small diameter pipe and tubing. A local hardware shop can supply you with the necessary parts and pieces and can also give you a step by step procedure/self help brochure. This will also allow you to install any valve or t or blank in the piping system. The only tools required will be wrenchs and a tube/piping cutter for this type of installation. Brazing is accomplished by heating the base metal and then the rod. There are different types of brazing rod such as brass, bronze etc.. you will also need a can of flux to coat the rod or you can buy the rod pre-coated. If the seam is flat metal you can use the heat from the brazing tip to make the filler rod follow the direction you want. This also includes vertical such as on an auto body. I would suggest practicing this in a safe area. Always utilize a fire extinguisher, brazing goggles, welding gloves and wear a long sleeve shirt for your protection.
Soft Soldering All grades of stainless steel can be soldered with lead-tin soft solder. Leaded solders should not be used when the product being soldered is used for food processing, serving or transport. Soldered joints are relatively weak compared to the strength of the steel, so this method should not be used where the mechanical strength is dependent upon the soldered joint. Strength can be added if the edges are first lock-seamed, spot welded or riveted. In general, welding is always preferable to soldering. Recommended procedure for soldering: · 1. The steel surfaces must be clean and free of oxidation. · 2. A rough surface improves adherence of the solder, so roughening with grinding wheel, file or coarse abrasive paper is recommended. · 3. Use a phosphoric acid based flux. Hydrochloric acid based fluxes require neutralising after soldering as any remnant traces will be highly corrosive to the steel. Hydrochloric acid based fluxes are not recommended for soldering of stainless steels. · 4. Flux should be applied with a brush, to only the area being soldered. · 5. A large, hot iron is recommended. Use the same temperature as for carbon steel, but a longer time will be required because of stainless steel's low thermal conductivity. · 6. Any type of solder can be used, but at least 50% tin is recommended. Solder with 60-70% tin and 30-40% lead has a better colour match and greater strength.
