Solder Pipes
Tools and materials required:Blowtorch or Pipe Soldering Iron.Heat Mat.Solder.Flux and flux brush.Fire extinguisher.Using a Blowtorch:Two methods can be used to create the high amount of direct heat needed to carry out a soldering job. The first is by using a blowtorch. The second is using an electrical pipe-soldering tool. Nearly all plumbers will use the blowtorch. These allow flame adjustment from high to low. The nozzle is really very hot so care is needed. For the DIY enthusiast this requires loads of practice. Blackheath Plumbers use blowtorches.The Heat Mat:This is a mat that can be laid out under the job to prevent fire and burn marks that can occur during this process. It is made of a fireproof material. There would also be a fire extinguisher present. You can buy these mats that have a pre-cut hole in them for wrapping around pipework etc.Solder:Solder is a soft alloy of metal designed to melt (to seal a joint) at a relatively low temperature compared to many other metals. The solder is lead free.Flux:Soldering flux is a paste that aids the solder run freely on and around the joint. The solder melts in blobs if flux is not applied. A Blackheath Plumber will always use flux.Method:Clean up the pipes using an abrasive pad. Spread the flux around the joint and pipe. Put the two parts together. Dont just solder one end of a fitting, always make sure it is connected to the pipework so you can solder the whole piece. Heat the pipework (the temperature is correct when the copper starts to discolour) and now apply solder to the joint. The solder needs to run around the joint evenly. Let the joint cool down, and then clean it with a damp rag, this will remove any residual flux. There should be shiny copper with a tiny ring of solder neatly around the joint.Before you begin you will need some additional equipment: