[Lowfer] Results: Solder the Al.

[KD7JYK]

Just tried to solder 6061 T6 Aluminum.  I was told to cut the Al then clean
the joints with a stainless brush...  I lost my brush so...  I cut the Al
with a mucky pipe cutter I use for copper and plastic.  No brush so I tried
sandpaper.  Didn't want to slice a finger so I decided to try soldering it
without cleaning.  I cut two pieces about 1-1/2" long and put them between a
clamp end to end.  I dipped the solder into the flux as per instructions and
heated the 6061 with a propane torch.  I tried once, Al wasn't hot enough.
I heated it some more, then touched the solder to the samples, and it wicked
around in about a second and a half, a very shiny smooth bead that only
fills the gap left by the pipe cutter!!!  I found this to be no more
difficult than copper!

I am sold, this is my first time in this application with this alloy, and it
is a perfect as it can get.

Kurt

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Ross Technologies Signals Intelligence Division
Rosetta Proving Grounds