[Jewelry making - Article 00001] - Re: [Orchid] Argentium silver adventures and questions

[Marty Andersen]

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    I too, have had many of the same problems that were described using
    the Argentium solders. This prompted me to test several different
    fluxes to see if it would help. Indeed there is a great difference in
    the way the AS solders work with different fluxes. I now use
    My-T-Flux from Rio Grande most of the time, and Dandix when I need a
    paste flux. The flux that works best may depend on your working
    conditions. Try a few different ones and see what works best for you.
    One thing that may help when using the hard solder is to scrub it
    with a green "Scotch" pad. I sometimes wonder if the residue that can
    be left behind is from the Germanium Oxide. 

    You may wish to consider is not using any solder at all. Recently I
    have been experimenting with fusing parts that I would normally have
    soldered. When making a bezel, I have been fusing the ends. When it's
    done right, I can't find where the ends were. Then the bezel is fused
    to the piece. Fusing two pieces of half round to make a ring shank
    works great too. Most of the parts can be fused on very easily. With
    a little practice, nothing is distorted or melted. The great thing
    about using no solder is how rapidly a piece can be fabricated. Just
    drop a couple of drops of My-T-Flux and heat. You would be surprised
    how solid the parts are fused together. If done properly, you can't
    remove the parts without destroying the piece. I was shocked how well
    it works for granulation. 

Marty

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