[Jewelry making - Article 00979] - Re: [Orchid] I must be getting too old for this

[Mark Shneyer]

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    Hi Bruce, I have also noticed some materials as you describe and not
    getting as smooth a flow as usual. With these rings I need to "pull"
    the solder to the inside (with heat) more than usual to be assured of
    a good flow through the joint. 

    I use a watered down flux when I solder and a very hot flame. I
    don't care for the caked on effect and the bubbling of the flux at
    full strength. (I use the green stuff). As a result I get a much
    lighter coating of flux around the joint, and I get a better feel for
    the temperature of the metal by color.  For me this method has me
    heating the ring for a shorter period of time so less oxidation can
    form particularly at the joint. (I hit them hard and give it the
    solder the second the ring is up to temp) 

    Once I get a flow on the outside of the ring I hold it up with a
    tweezers and immediately get the heat on the inside of the ring to
    pull the solder through the rest of the joint...This also helps
    eliminate porosity from the solder on the outside surface. 

    I then quench it hot...(controversial I know)...before the heat can
    travel to the top side of the ring. This allows me to work on most
    rings, even with color, without heat sinking them except for getting
    them wet. (There are exceptions & I don't advise this to any of the
    readers unless they are experienced) 

    I have found if I don't get a good flow and the piece gets oxidation
    the best bet is to stop...pickle it...hit it with a saw blade to
    clean up the joint if needed...and try again. Attempting to force the
    flow will not work. 

    Regards, Mark 

    Ps For the novices out there...Very hot flames are dangerous to your
    jewelry if you are not used to it. Learn the heated colors of the
    metals you use and their melt points. Solder always flows towards the
    heat.  Heat the piece and it will take the solder from your pick when
    it is up to temp. Always heat sink stones while learning.


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