Objective: Braze an aluminum assembly to 968 ºF (520 ºC) within 20 seconds
Material : Customer supplied 1.33" (33.8 mm) O.D. aluminum tube and aluminum mating part ,Aluminum braze alloy
Temperature: 968 ºF (520 ºC)
Frequency 50 kHz
Equipment: DW-HF-35KW,30-80 kHz induction heating system equipped with a remote heat station containing one 53 μF capacitor A two-position helical induction heating coil designed and developed specifically for this application.
Process: Braze material was applied between the tubing and the mating part. The assembly was placed inside the coil and heated for approximately 40 seconds. With a two-position coil, two parts can be heated simultaneously, which means one part would be completed every 15-20 seconds. Braze material was stick fed, which created a good joint. The heating time with two parts being heated simultaneously meets the client's objective, and represents a significant improvement in regards to speed over using a torch.
Results/Benefits
- Speed: The recommended approach cut their heating time in half when compared to using a torch
- Part quality: Induction heating is a repeatable method with more consistency than a torch can generally deliver
- Safety: Induction heating is a clean, precise method that does not involve an open flame like a torch, which results in a safer work environment
