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General Category => General Shop Discussions => Topic started by: chips and more on May 20, 2025, 02:35 PM
Made a few parts for one of my small metal lathes. The tabs/ears on the thick looking washers was gold soldered in place. If I suspect a problem with the hard solder flowing correctly, I will use gold solder instead of silver solder. It could be just me, but I get better results with how gold solder flows/wicks.
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I learn something new every day! I had no idea that gold solder was a thing! I assume that parts prep is similar to that of silver solder? What about temperature? Similar to silver solder also? And price? I assume it is also a bit more expensive.
Now that I think about it, I guess I always knew in the back of my head that gold solder was a thing, but never ever gave it any real thought. I know that jewelers use some sort of soldering process to assemble rings and other jewelry, it makes total sense that one would use gold solder on gold rings!
Just the same, thanks for bringing it to light!
The gold solder I have was found many moons ago. And I have enough to last my life time. It comes in many different melting temps, karats and colors. Have not "today" priced it, guessing it's $$$. But for me and the small scale work that I do, if I had to buy it, the cost would not stop me, because the results I get are excellent. Not sure on the temp? The steel just starts to turn that dull faint red. I use that borax flux that washes off with water when you are done. And a Mapp torch for the heat.