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Cant find any Gel flux for AL brazing

Posted: Sat May 15, 2021 1:04 am
by diyer
Just as the title says, I have not been able to find any "GEL" type flux. Everything seems to be powder types. Powders seem ok if the work-piece is flat, but not for vertical work? I can mix them with water but they still dont adhere well to the work surface, if at all.

Can I mix the powder type flux with something to thicken it and still stay within the temp needed for brazing, which seems to be 700F, but I also see some references to temps as high as 1143F. Wiki says Al melts @ 1200F Perhaps it just depends on what your doing. But either way, I still need a gel ?

Thank you for your time.

Re: Cant find any Gel flux for AL brazing

Posted: Sat May 15, 2021 10:07 am
by jcfx
Have you looked on McMaster ?
They have a aluminum soldering paste ( # 7696A3 ) that might suit your purpose.

TIP: McMaster doesn't publish brand names or technical data ( TDS ) for many items, but items like adhesives, flux they do supply
a material safety data sheet from the manufacturer, click on details and look for SDS.
That can give you the manufacturer and googling can get you to their site for more info and other things they may make.

Re: Cant find any Gel flux for AL brazing

Posted: Mon May 17, 2021 12:59 am
by diyer
Thank you. I will check out that product. Didnt even think of McMaster. :o I rarely buy from them. I should get familiar with their catalog again. Been years since I looked at one.

Re: Cant find any Gel flux for AL brazing

Posted: Mon May 17, 2021 11:05 am
by NP317
diner:
I suspect that McMaster-Carr can be considered a major supplier to the Live Steam hobby!
They certainly have been for me these past several decades, both commercial and hobby.
RussN