Aluminum brazing alloys are low-melting point filler metals used for joining aluminum and aluminum alloys. They typically contain aluminum as the main component, along with silicon (Si) to lower the melting point and improve fluidity. For some specialized applications, zinc (Zn) or other elements might also be present. These alloys are particularly favored in applications where weight reduction and good heat transfer properties are crucial.
Key Properties
Low Melting Point: Due to aluminum's low melting point, aluminum brazing alloys also melt at relatively low temperatures, minimizing distortion or changes to the base material's properties.
Good Fluidity and Wetting: The molten alloy spreads well over aluminum surfaces and penetrates joint gaps via capillary action, forming strong and leak-tight bonds.
Corrosion Resistance: Aluminum's natural corrosion resistance is generally maintained in brazed joints.
Lightweight: The lightweight nature of aluminum carries over to the brazed joints, which is especially important in the transportation sector.
Flux Usage: Because of the stubborn oxide layer on aluminum surfaces, most aluminum brazing processes require specially formulated brazing fluxes. These fluxes dissolve the oxides, allowing the alloy to bond with the base metal. Flux-less brazing techniques (e.g., vacuum brazing or controlled atmosphere brazing) are also available.
Areas of Use
Aluminum brazing alloys are widely used in various industries where lightness and high heat transfer properties are critical. Primary applications include:
Automotive Industry: Radiators, heat exchangers, air conditioning systems, and pipelines.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning): Condensers and evaporators.
Aerospace: Lightweight structural components and thermal management systems.
Home Appliances: Refrigerator and freezer systems.
Electrical and Electronics: Heat sinks and certain conductive components.
Aluminum brazing alloys offer an essential solution for efficiently and reliably joining aluminum components.
ISO 17672
|
EN 1044
|
Al %
|
Si %
|
Zn %
|
Melting Range
ºC
|
Kupa 178
|
-
|
88
|
12
|
|
710-925
|
Kupa 179
|
CP 203
|
90
|
10
|
|
710-890
|
Kupa 279
|
CP 105
|
2
|
|
98
|
385-400
|