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A method for improving flux used in soldering nonprecious alloys
A METHOD
FOR IMPROVING FLUX USED IN SOLDERING NONPRECIOUS ALLOYS JAMESJAY, D.D.S., NEwYoRK,N.Y.
In an attempt to overcome some of the difficulties which have been associated with the soldering of nonprecious alloys, a simple addition to the stock solution of flux has been found to produce a definite improvement in its working properties. This method has been suggested to, tried, and found successful by a number of practitioners. To approximately one ounce of Handy Flux, made by Handy & Harman of New York City, was added twenty drops of Yellow Label Drene Shampoo. This shampoo is one of a large family of so-called “wetting agents.” It wa,s chosen because of its general availability and relatively low cost. The amount to add is given only as a general guide and may be increased or decreased within limits. Handy Flux was chosen because of its desirable properties which include a low melting temperature and rapid solvent action. However, the method is applicable to other brands of flux. The advantages of this improved flux are : 1. All surfaces with which it is in contact remain “clean,” or free of oxides. 2. It spreads easily and smoothly. 3. The solder flows more readily. The following suggestions may aid in obtaining the most from the flux: 1. Maintain the flux at a thin, creamy consistency by the addition of hot water, rather than by the continual addition of “Drene.” Keep the container tightly closed when not in use. 2. When soldering, spread the flux in a thin layer for some distance on each side of the solder joint. This helps prevent overheating and cleans the area covered. 3. The residue of the flux should be removed with hot water after the soldering operation. Wetting agents have many other uses of interest. to our profession. They may be used in photographic solutions, for washing hydrocolloid impressions, and to minimize “bubbles” in castings. In fact the limits of their uses lie only within the confines of one’s ingenuity or need for such .a material. 1 WEST
81~~
STREET
290
FOR IMPROVING FLUX USED IN SOLDERING NONPRECIOUS ALLOYS JAMESJAY, D.D.S., NEwYoRK,N.Y.
In an attempt to overcome some of the difficulties which have been associated with the soldering of nonprecious alloys, a simple addition to the stock solution of flux has been found to produce a definite improvement in its working properties. This method has been suggested to, tried, and found successful by a number of practitioners. To approximately one ounce of Handy Flux, made by Handy & Harman of New York City, was added twenty drops of Yellow Label Drene Shampoo. This shampoo is one of a large family of so-called “wetting agents.” It wa,s chosen because of its general availability and relatively low cost. The amount to add is given only as a general guide and may be increased or decreased within limits. Handy Flux was chosen because of its desirable properties which include a low melting temperature and rapid solvent action. However, the method is applicable to other brands of flux. The advantages of this improved flux are : 1. All surfaces with which it is in contact remain “clean,” or free of oxides. 2. It spreads easily and smoothly. 3. The solder flows more readily. The following suggestions may aid in obtaining the most from the flux: 1. Maintain the flux at a thin, creamy consistency by the addition of hot water, rather than by the continual addition of “Drene.” Keep the container tightly closed when not in use. 2. When soldering, spread the flux in a thin layer for some distance on each side of the solder joint. This helps prevent overheating and cleans the area covered. 3. The residue of the flux should be removed with hot water after the soldering operation. Wetting agents have many other uses of interest. to our profession. They may be used in photographic solutions, for washing hydrocolloid impressions, and to minimize “bubbles” in castings. In fact the limits of their uses lie only within the confines of one’s ingenuity or need for such .a material. 1 WEST
81~~
STREET
290