Plasma arc brazing in sheet metal construction

Abstract

Because of the high heat input required, conventional welding methods may not always be ideal for mild and high strength steel sheets. A possible alternative in some applications is plasma brazing, which can also serve as a supplement to other joining techniques. A characteristic feature of the process is the separation between the energy input and filler material. Compared with high heat processes, plasma brazing causes considerably less distortion of joints or panels. Almost no spatter results from the process. The brazed seams exhibit sound mechanical properties as well as good appearance. However, there are difficulties associated with brazing some high strength steels using the filler wires commercially available at present.