Brazing is a metal joining process carried out at high temperatures.
It is done at temperatures above 450°C (842°F) but below the melting point of the base metals.
The filler metal melts and flows into the joint to join the materials.
In this article:
What temperature is brazing?
Brazing is typically done at temperatures above 450°C (842°F) — that temperature is what distinguishes brazing from soldering.
The exact brazing temperature depends on the filler metal used:
- Silver brazing alloys: ~600–900°C (1110–1650°F)
- Brass/bronze brazing rods: ~870–980°C (1600–1800°F)
- Aluminum brazing: ~577–620°C (1070–1150°F)
- Nickel-based brazing alloys: can exceed 1000°C (1830°F)
Important detail: in brazing, the base metals are heated but not melted. Only the filler metal melts and flows into the joint by capillary action.
For comparison:
- Soldering: below 450°C (842°F)
- Brazing: above 450°C
- Welding: base metals themselves melt
Summary
| Process | Temperature Range | What Melts? | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soldering | Below 450°C (842°F) | Only filler metal | Electronics, plumbing, light-duty joints |
| Brazing | Above 450°C (842°F) — commonly 600–1000°C | Only filler metal | Strong metal joints, HVAC, piping, fabrication |
| Welding | Typically >1500°C (varies by metal/process) | Base metal + often filler metal | Structural fabrication, heavy-duty joints |
Common brazing filler temperatures
| Brazing Filler Type | Approx. Temperature |
|---|---|
| Silver alloys | 600–900°C |
| Aluminum brazing alloys | 577–620°C |
| Brass/Bronze rods | 870–980°C |
| Nickel-based alloys | 1000°C+ |
Key rule: Brazing starts at 450°C (842°F) and above.
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