SPECIFICATION FOR FILLER METALS FOR

BRAZING AND BRAZE WELDING

SFA-5.8

(Identical with AWS Specification A5.8-92)

1. Scope 4. Certification
This specification prescribes requirements for the By affixing the AWS specification and classification
classification of filler metals for brazing and braze designations to the package, or the classification to the
welding. It includes filler metals for brazing with or product, the manufacturer certifies that the product
without a flux, and in all protective atmospheres, for meets the requirements of this specification.4
various applications, including those for vacuum ser-
vice.1 Filler metals identified by the prefix RB indicate
that the filler metal is suitable for use both as brazing 5. Units of Measure and Rounding-Off
rod for braze welding and as a brazing filler metal. Procedure
5.1 U.S. Customary Units are the standard units of
PART A GENERAL REQUIREMENTS measure in this specification. The SI Units are given
as equivalent values to the U.S. Customary Units. The
2. Classification standard sizes and dimensions in the two systems are
2.1 The brazing filler metals covered by this specifi- not identical, and for this reason conversion from a
cation are classified according to their chemical compo- standard size or dimension in one system will not
sition, as specified in Tables 1 through 6.2 always coincide with a standard size or dimension in
the other. Suitable conversions encompassing standard
2.2 Filler metal classified under one classification sizes of both can be made, however, if appropriate
shall not be classified under any other classification of tolerances are applied in each case.
this specification.
5.2 For the purpose of determining conformance with
this specification, an observed or calculated value shall
3. Acceptance be rounded to the nearest unit in the last right-hand
Acceptance of the brazing filler metal shall be in place of figures used in expressing the limiting value
accordance with the provisions of the latest edition of in accordance with the rounding-off method given in
ANSI /AWS A5.01, Filler Metal Procurement Guide- ASTM E29, Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test
lines.3 Data to Determine Conformance with Specifications.5

1 Filler
metals for vacuum service are for devices operating in a Society, 550 N.W. LeJeune Road, P.O. Box 351040, Miami, Flor-
vacuum, regardless of the atmosphere used in making the joint. ida 33135.
2 An explanation of the method of classification of the filler metals 4 See A4, Certification (in the Appendix) for further information
is included in A2. concerning certification and the testing called for to meet this
3 See A3, Acceptance (in the Appendix) for further information requirement.
concerning acceptance, testing of the material shipped, and 5 ASTM standards can be obtained from the American Society for

ANSI /AWS A5.01, Filler Metal Procurement Guidelines. Testing and Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylva-
AWS documents may be obtained from the American Welding nia 19103.

179
 TABLE 1
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION REQUIREMENTS FOR SILVER FILLER METALS SFA-5.8

Composition, Weight Percent

Other
AWS UNS Elements,
Classification Numbera Ag Cu Zn Cd Ni Sn Li Mn Totalb

BAg-1 P07450 44.046.0 14.016.0 14.018.0 23.025.0 0.15

BAg-1a P07500 49.051.0 14.516.5 14.518.5 17.019.0 0.15
BAg-2 P07350 34.036.0 25.027.0 19.023.0 17.019.0 0.15
BAg-2a P07300 29.031.0 26.028.0 21.025.0 19.021.0 0.15
BAg-3 P07501 49.051.0 14.516.5 13.517.5 15.017.0 2.53.5 0.15
BAg-4 P07400 39.041.0 29.031.0 26.030.0 1.52.5 0.15
BAg-5 P07453 44.046.0 29.031.0 23.027.0 0.15
BAg-6 P07503 49.051.0 33.035.0 14.018.0 0.15
BAg-7 P07563 55.057.0 21.023.0 15.019.0 4.55.5 0.15
BAg-8 P07720 71.073.0 Remainder 0.15
BAg-8a P07723 71.073.0 Remainder 0.250.50 0.15
BAg-9 P07650 64.066.0 19.021.0 13.017.0 0.15
BAg-10 P07700 69.071.0 19.021.0 8.012.0 0.15
BAg-13 P07540 53.055.0 Remainder 4.06.0 0.51.5 0.15

180
BAg-13a P07560 55.057.0 Remainder 1.52.5 0.15
BAg-18 P07600 59.061.0 Remainder 9.510.5 0.15
BAg-19 P07925 92.093.0 Remainder 0.150.30 0.15
1998 SECTION II

BAg-20 P07301 29.031.0 37.039.0 30.034.0 0.15

BAg-21 P07630 62.064.0 27.529.5 2.03.0 5.07.0 0.15
BAg-22 P07490 48.050.0 15.017.0 21.025.0 4.05.0 7.08.0 0.15
BAg-23 P07850 84.086.0 Remainder 0.15
BAg-24 P07505 49.051.0 19.021.0 26.030.0 1.52.5 0.15
BAg-26 P07250 24.026.0 37.039.0 31.035.0 1.52.5 1.52.5 0.15
BAg-27 P07251 24.026.0 34.036.0 24.528.5 12.514.5 0.15
BAg-28 P07401 39.041.0 29.031.0 26.030.0 1.52.5 0.15
BAg-33 P07252 24.026.0 29.031.0 26.528.5 16.518.5 0.15
BAg-34 P07380 37.039.0 31.033.0 26.030.0 1.52.5 0.15
BAg-35 P07351 34.036.0 31.033.0 31.035.0 0.15
BAg-36 P07454 44.046.0 26.028.0 23.027.0 2.53.5 0.15
BAg-37 P07253 24.026.0 39.041.0 31.035.0 1.52.5 0.15
NOTES:
a. SAE/ASTM Unified Numbering System for Metals and Alloys.
b. The brazing filler metal shall be analyzed for those specific elements for which values are shown in this table. If the presence of other elements is indicated in the course of this work, the
amount of those elements shall be determined to ensure that their total does not exceed the limit specified.
See Table A2 for discontinued brazing filler metal classification.
See Table 6 for the following Ag classifications not included here: BVAg-0, BVAg-6b, BVAg-8b, BVAg-29 to BVAg-32.
 PART C SPECIFICATIONS FOR WELDING RODS,
ELECTRODES, AND FILLER METALS SFA-5.8

TABLE 2
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION REQUIREMENTS FOR GOLD FILLER METALS

Composition, Weight Percent

Other
AWS UNS Elements,
Classification Numbera Au Cu Pd Ni Totalb
BAu-1 P00375 37.038.0 Remainder 0.15
BAu-2 P00800 79.580.5 Remainder 0.15
BAu-3 P00350 34.535.5 Remainder 2.53.5 0.15
BAu-4 P00820 81.582.5 Remainder 0.15
BAu-5 P00300 29.530.5 33.534.5 35.536.5 0.15
BAu-6 P00700 69.570.5 7.58.5 21.522.5 0.15
NOTES:
a. SAE/ASTM Unified Numbering System for Metals and Alloys.
b. The brazing filler metal shall be analyzed for those specific elements for which values are shown in this table. If the presence of other elements
is indicated in the course of this work, the amount of those elements shall be determined to ensure that their total does not exceed the limit
specified.

PART B TESTS, PROCEDURES, AND 8.2 The sample shall be analyzed by accepted analyti-
REQUIREMENTS cal methods.
6. Summary of Tests 8.3 In case of dispute, the referee method for all
6.1 Chemical analysis is required for all classifica- elements except phosphorous shall be the appropriate
tions. analytical method in the latest edition of the Annual
Book of ASTM Standards, Chemical Analysis of Metals;
6.2 Filler metals for vacuum service require a melt Sampling and Analysis of Metal Bearing Ores. For
cleanliness test and a spatter test, in addition to chemical phosphorus, the referee method shall be that of the latest
analysis. edition of ASTM E1, Standard Photometric Method
6.3 Sieve analysis is required for all powdered brazing for Determination of Phosphorus in High-Phosphorus
filler metal. Brazing Filler Metals.

6.4 A binder content test for transfer tape used in

conjunction with powdered brazing filler metals is 9. Sieve Analysis
required.
9.1 Sieve analysis for powdered brazing filler metals
shall be made in accordance with ASTM B214, Standard
7. Retest Method for Sieve Analysis of Granular Metal Powders.
If the results of any test fail to meet the requirement,
9.2 The results of sieve analysis shall conform to
that test shall be repeated twice. The results of both
the particle size distribution of the requirements of
tests shall meet the requirement. Samples for retest
Table 7.
may be taken from the original sample or from one
or two new samples. For chemical analysis, retest need
be only for the specific elements that failed to meet
10. Melt Cleanliness Test
the requirement.
10.1 The melt cleanliness test shall be performed
on a sample of approximately one gram of filler metal.
8. Chemical Analysis
Clean, dry tools shall be used to extract the sample
8.1 Brazing filler metals and the filler metal portion from the stock, and the sample shall be placed in a
of the clad product shall conform to the chemical clean, dense polycrystalline alumina crucible or boat
composition requirements of Tables 1 through 6 for of at least 99.6% alumina. As an alternative, a fused
the specific filler metal being tested. silica crucible or boat that has been precleaned by air

181
 SFA-5.8

TABLE 3
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION REQUIREMENTS FOR ALUMINUM AND MAGNESIUM FILLER METALS

Chemical Composition, Weight Percenta

Other
Elementsc
AWS UNS
Classification Numberb Si Cu Mg Bi Fe Zn Mn Cr Ni Ti Be Al Each Total

BAlSi-2 A94343 6.88.2 0.25 0.8 0.20 0.10 Remainder 0.05 0.15
BAlSi-3 A94145 9.310.7 3.34.7 0.15 0.8 0.20 0.15 0.15 Remainder 0.05 0.15

182
BAlSi-4 A94047 11.013.0 0.30 0.10 0.8 0.20 0.15 Remainder 0.05 0.15
BAlSi-5 A94045 9.011.0 0.30 0.05 0.8 0.10 0.05 0.20 Remainder 0.05 0.15
BAlSi-7 A94004 9.010.5 0.25 1.02.0 0.8 0.20 0.10 Remainder 0.05 0.15
1998 SECTION II

BAlSi-9 A94147 11.013.0 0.25 0.100.5 0.8 0.20 0.10 Remainder 0.05 0.15
BAlSi-11 A94104 9.010.5 0.25 1.02.0 0.020.20 0.8 0.20 0.10 Remainder 0.05 0.15
BMg-1 M19001 0.05 0.05 Remainder 0.005 1.72.3 0.151.5 0.005 0.0002 8.39.7 0.30
0.0008
NOTES:
a. Single values are maximum, unless otherwise noted.
b. SAE/ASTM Unified Numbering System for Metals and Alloys.
c. The filler metal shall be analyzed for those specific elements for which values are shown in this table. If the presence of other elements is indicated in the course of this work, the amount
of those elements shall be determined to ensure that they, or their total do not exceed the limits specified.
 TABLE 4
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION REQUIREMENTS FOR COPPER, COPPER-ZINC, AND COPPER-PHOSPHORUS FILLER METALS

Chemical Composition, Weight Percenta

Other
AWS UNS Elements,
Classification Numberb Cu Ag Zn Sn Fe Mn Ni P Pb Al Si Totalc

BCu-1f C14180 99.90 min 0.075 0.02 0.01* 0.10f

BCu-1a 99.00 mind 0.30d
BCu-2e 86.50 min 0.50
RBCuZn-Af C47000 57.061.0 Remainder 0.251.00 * * 0.05* 0.01* * 0.50f
RBCuZn-Bf C68000 56.0:NND:60.0g Remainder 0.801.10 0.251.20 0.010.50 0.200.80h 0.05* 0.01* 0.040.15 0.50f
RBCuZn-Cf C68100 56.060.0 Remainder 0.801.10 0.251.20 0.010.50 0.05* 0.01* 0.040.15 0.50f
RBCuZn-Df C77300 46.050.0 Remainder 9.011.0 0.25 0.05* 0.01* 0.040.25 0.50f
BCuP-1 C55180 Remainder 4.85.2 0.15

183
BCuP-2 C55181 Remainder 7.07.5 0.15
BCuP-3 C55281 Remainder 4.85.2 5.86.2 0.15
BCuP-4 C55283 Remainder 5.86.2 7.07.5 0.15
BCuP-5 C55284 Remainder 14.515.5 4.85.2 0.15
BCuP-6 C55280 Remainder 1.82.2 6.87.2 0.15
BCuP-7 C55282 Remainder 4.85.2 6.57.0 0.15
NOTES:
ELECTRODES, AND FILLER METALS

a. Single values are maximum, unless noted.

b. SAE/ASTM Unified Numbering System for Metals and Alloys.
c. The filler metal shall be analyzed for those specific elements for which values or asterisks are shown in this table. If the presence of other elements is indicated in the course of this work,
PART C SPECIFICATIONS FOR WELDING RODS,

the amount of those elements shall be determined to ensure that their total does not exceed the limit specified.
d. The balance is oxygen, present as cuprous oxide. Oxygen is not to be included in Other Elements.
e. These chemical composition requirements pertain only to the cuprous oxide powder and do not include requirements for the organic vehicle in which the cuprous oxide is suspended, when
supplied in paste form.
f. The total of all other elements including those for which a maximum value or asterisk is shown, shall not exceed the value specified in Other Elements, Total.
g. Silver residual is included in Cu analysis.
h. Includes cobalt.
SFA-5.8
 TABLE 5 SFA-5.8
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION REQUIREMENTS FOR NICKEL AND COBALT FILLER METALS

Chemical Composition, Weight Percenta

Other
AWS UNS Elements,
Classification Numberb Ni Cr B Si Fe C P S Al Ti Mn Cu Zr W Co Se Totalc

BNi-1 N99600 Remainder 13.0 2.75 4.0 4.0 0.60 0.02 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.10 0.005 0.50
15.0 3.50 5.0 5.0 0.90
BNi-1a N99610 Remainder 13.0 2.75 4.0 4.0 0.06 0.02 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.10 0.005 0.50
15.0 3.50 5.0 5.0
BNi-2 N99620 Remainder 6.0 2.75 4.0 2.5 0.06 0.02 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.10 0.005 0.50
8.0 3.50 5.0 3.5
BNi-3 N99630 Remainder 2.75 4.0 0.5 0.06 0.02 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.10 0.005 0.50
3.50 5.0
BNi-4 N99640 Remainder 1.50 3.0 1.5 0.06 0.02 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.10 0.005 0.50
2.20 4.0
BNi-5 N99650 Remainder 18.5 0.03 9.75 0.06 0.02 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.10 0.005 0.50
19.5 10.50

184
BNi-5a N99651 Remainder 18.5 1.0 7.0 0.5 0.10 0.02 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.10 0.005 0.50
19.5 1.5 7.5
BNi-6 N99700 Remainder 0.06 10.0 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.10 0.005 0.50
1998 SECTION II

12.0
BNi-7 N99710 Remainder 13.0 0.01 0.10 0.2 0.06 9.7 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.04 0.05 0.10 0.005 0.50
15.0 10.5
BNi-8 N99800 Remainder 6.0 0.06 0.02 0.02 0.05 0.05 21.5 4.0 0.05 0.10 0.005 0.50
8.0 24.5 5.0
BNi-9 N99612 Remainder 13.5 3.25 1.5 0.06 0.02 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.05 0.10 0.005 0.50
16.5 4.00
BNi-10 N99622 Remainder 10.0 2.0 3.0 2.5 0.40 0.02 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.05 15.0 0.10 0.005 0.50
13.0 3.0 4.0 4.5 0.55 17.0
BNi-11 N99624 Remainder 9.00 2.2 3.35 2.5 0.30 0.02 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.05 11.50 0.10 0.005 0.50
11.75 3.1 4.25 4.0 0.50 12.75
BCo-1 R39001 16.018.0 18.0 0.70 7.5 1.0 0.35 0.02 0.02 0.05 0.05 0.05 3.5 Remainder 0.005 0.50
20.0 0.90 8.5 0.45 4.5
NOTES:
a. Single values are maximum.
b. SAE/ASTM Unified Numbering System for Metals and Alloys.
c. The filler metal shall be analyzed for those specific elements for which values are shown in this table. If the presence of other elements is indicated in the course of this work, the amount
of those elements shall be determined to ensure that their total does not exceed the limit specified.
 TABLE 6
CHEMICAL COMP0SITION REQUIREMENTS FOR FILLER METALS FOR VACUUM SERVICE

Chemical Composition, Weight Percenta,b,c

AWS UNS
Classification Number Ag Au Cu Ni Co Sn Pd In Zn Cd Pb P C
Grade 1
BVAg-0 P07017 99.95 min 0.05 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAg-6b P07507 49.051.0 Remainder 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAg-8 P07727 71.073.0 Remainder 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAg-8b P07728 70.572.5 Remainder 0.30.7 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAg-18 P07607 59.061.0 Remainder 9.510.5 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAg-29 P07627 60.562.5 Remainder 14.015.0 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAg-30 P07687 67.069.0 Remainder 4.55.5 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAg-31 P07587 57.059.0 31.033.0 Remainder 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAg-32 P07547 53.055.0 20.022.0 Remainder 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAu-2 P00807 79.580.5 Remainder 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAu-4 P00827 81.582.5 Remainder 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAu-7 P00507 49.550.5 24.525.5 0.06 Reaminder 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAu-8 P00927 91.093.0 Remainder 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVPd-1 P03657 0.06 Remainder 64.066.0 0.001 0.001 0.002 0.002 0.005
Grade 2

185
BVAg-0 P07017 99.95 min 0.05 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAg-6b P07507 49.051.0 Remainder 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.02 0.005
BVAg-8 P07727 71.073.0 Remainder 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.02 0.005
BVAg-8b P07728 70.572.5 Remainder 0.30.7 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.02 0.005
BVAg-18 P07607 59.061.0 Remainder 9.510.5 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.02 0.005
BVAg-29 P07627 60.562.5 Remainder 14.015.0 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.02 0.005
BVAg-30 P07687 67.069.0 Remainder 4.55.5 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.02 0.005
ELECTRODES, AND FILLER METALS

BVAg-31 P07587 57.059.0 31.033.0 Remainder 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAg-32 P07547 53.055.0 20.022.0 Remainder 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAu-2 P00807 79.580.5 Remainder 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.005
PART C SPECIFICATIONS FOR WELDING RODS,

BVAu-4 P00827 81.582.5 Remainder 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.005

BVAu-7 P99507 49.550.5 24.525.5 0.06 Remainder 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVAu-8 P00927 91.093.0 Remainder 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVPd-1 P03657 0.06 Remainder 64.066.0 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.005
BVCu-1x C14181 99.99 min 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.002 0.005
NOTES:
a. The filler metal shall be analyzed for those specific elements for which values are shown in this table. If the presence of other elements is indicated in the course of this work, the amount
of those elements shall be determined.
b. All other elements in addition to those listed in the table above, with a vapor pressure higher than 107 torr at 932F (500C) (such as Mg, Sb, K, Na, Li, Tl, S, Cs, Rb, Se, Te, Sr and
Ca) are limited to 0.001 percent each for Grade 1 filler metals and 0.002 percent each for Grade 2 filler metals. The total of all these high vapor pressure elements (including zinc,
cadmium, and lead) is limited to 0.010 percent. The total of other elements not designated as high vapor pressure elements is limited to 0.05 percent, except for BVCu-1x, for which the
total shall be 0.015 percent, max.
c. Single values are maximum, unless noted.
SFA-5.8
SFA-5.8 1998 SECTION II

TABLE 7 11.2 Upon completion of the test, the bottom side

POWDER MESH DESIGNATIONS AND PARTICLE of the nickel channel shall be examined at a 5
SIZE DISTRIBUTION* magnification for evidence of any spatter. If there is no
evidence of spatter, the sample meets the requirements.
Particle Size Distribution

Distribution
12. Binder Content of Transfer Tape
Designations Sieve Size Percent
100 mesh Through No. 60 (250m) 100 12.1 The binder content of transfer tape shall be
Through No. 100 (149m) 95 min determined by the following method:
140 C mesh On No. 100 (149m) 0.5 max 12.1.1 A strip of Type 304 stainless steel approxi-
On No. 140 (105m) 10 max
Through No. 325 (45m) 20 max
mately 0.031 0.5 2 in. (0.8 13 51 mm),
shall be weighed and the weight shall be recorded as
140 F mesh On No. 100 (149m) 0.5 max
On No. 140 (105m) 10 max
Weight A.
Through No. 325 (45m) 55 max
12.1.2 The transfer tape shall be shaped to the
325 mesh On No. 200 (74m) 0.5 max dimensions of the stainless steel strip, applied to the
On No. 325 (45m) 10 max
strip, the plastic carrier removed, and the composite
Through No. 325 (45m) 90 min
weighed. This weight shall be recorded as Weight B.
* These are standard ASTM sieve sizes selected from Table 1 of
ASTM E11, Standard Specification for Wire Cloth Sieves for Test- 12.1.3 Heat the composite in a vacuum or other
ing Purposes. protective atmosphere furnace to a temperature above
1000F (538C), cool under the protective atmosphere,
to less than 300F (150C) remove from the furnace
and reweigh. This weight shall be recorded as Weight C.
firing at a temperature of at least 2012F (1100C), 12.1.4 The percentage of binder shall be calculated
and stored in a dust-free container, may be used. as follows:
10.2 The container with the sample shall be placed in
a combustion tube muffle made of dense polycrystalline Weight B Weight C
Percentage of binder p 100
alumina, or fused silica. The muffle shall be purged Weight B Weight A
with dry hydrogen [40F (40C) dew point or lower],
and the sample shall be heated to a temperature of
36F (20C) above the liquidus temperature established 12.2 To meet the requirements, the binder content
for the material (See Table A1). It shall be held at of transfer tape shall be 6.0 percent maximum except
that temperature for ten minutes, then allowed to cool when otherwise agreed between purchaser and supplier.
in the muffle to a temperature no higher than 150F
(65C). At that time the flow of hydrogen shall be
stopped, and the sample shall be removed for exami- PART C MANUFACTURE,
nation. IDENTIFICATION AND PACKAGING

10.3 The fused sample shall be examined at a magni- 13. Method of Manufacture
fication of 5. If it has melted completely, and has no Brazing filler metals classified according to this speci-
more than a light smokiness on the surface and no fication may be manufactured by any method that will
discrete black specks, it meets the requirements of the produce filler metals that meet the requirements of this
cleanliness test. specification.

11. Spatter Test

14. Standard Forms, Sizes and Tolerances
11.1 The spatter test shall be performed at the same
14.1 Standard forms and sizes of brazing filler metals
time as the melt cleanliness test by bridging the crucible
shall be as shown in Table 8.
or boat with a nickel channel, the legs of which are
designed to allow a small clearance, 0.06 in. (1.5 mm) 14.2 Dimensional tolerances of wrought wire, rod,
maximum, above the crucible. The bridge shall be no sheet, and strip shall be in accordance with Table 9
more than 0.38 in. (9.6 mm) above the filler metal. and 10, as applicable.

186
 PART C SPECIFICATIONS FOR WELDING RODS,
ELECTRODES, AND FILLER METALS SFA-5.8

TABLE 8
STANDARD FORMS AND SIZES

Standard Sizes

Thickness or Diameter
AWS Dimensions Width, Length,
Classification Standard Form Specified or Mesh Size in. mm

Stripa (Coiled Width and 0.25 (6.4 mm) to 0.002 0.05

or Spooled) Thickness 6.0 in. (150 mm) 0.003 0.08
in multiples of 0.005 0.13
0.25 in. 0.010 0.25
0.020 0.51

BAg Round Wire Diameter for
All Classifi- (coiled or wire
cations spooled), rod
(straight lengths)
1 (0.31)
32 0.8
3 (0.047)
64 1.2
Length and 1
16 (0.062) 1.6
Diameter for 18 in. (455 mm) and 3
32 (0.094) 2.4
Rod 36 in. (910 mm) 1 (0.125)
8 3.2

Powder and Mesh Size 100
Paste 140C
140F
325

BVAg All Strip, wire (coiled Dimensions shall be as specified on purchase order or contract.
Classifica- or spooled) and
tions powder

BAu, BVAu, Strip, wire Dimensions shall be as specified on purchase order or contract.
BVPd, All Classifi- (coiled or spooled)
cations and powder
(continued)

187
SFA-5.8 1998 SECTION II

TABLE 8 (CONTD)
STANDARD FORMS AND SIZES

Standard Sizes

Thickness or Diameter
AWS Dimensions Width, Length,
Classification Standard Form Specified or Mesh Size in. mm

BAlSi, BMg, Sheet (coiled) b Thickness 0.010 0.25

All Classifi- 0.015 0.38
cations 0.020 0.51

1. (0.062)
16 1.6
BAlSi-3 Wire (coiled)
Length and 3 (0.094)
32 2.4

or Rod 1 (0.125) 3.2
BAlSi-4 diameter for 36 in. (455 mm) 8
BMg-1 (Straight
rod 5
32 (0.156) 4.0
lengths)
3
16 (0.188) 4.8

BAlSi-4 h Powder and Paste Mesh Size 100

0.003 0.08

5
0.25 in. (6.4 mm) to 0.005 0.13
BCuP-1 Strip (coiled or Width and

6 in. (150 mm) in
BCuP-5 spooled) Thickness 0.010 0.25
multiples of 0.25 in.
0.025 0.6

Round wire (coiled Diameter

or spooled)
18 in. (455 mm) and
BCuP Round rod Length and 36 in. (910 mm)
All Classifi- (straight Diameter
cations lengths)

Rectangular Width and 1 in. (1.6 mm) to
16
wire (coils or Thickness 1 in. (6.4 mm) width
4
0.050 1.3
spools) in multiples of 132 in.
0.062 1.6

0.094 2.4
Rectangular Width, 1 , 3
16
1
32 and 8 in. (1.6,
0.109 2.8

rod (straight Length and 2.4, and 3.2 mm) wide

0.125 3.2
lengths) Thickness 18 in. (455 mm) and
0.250 6.4
36 in. (910 mm) lengths

Powder and Mesh Size 100
Paste 140C
140F
325
BCu-1
RBCuZn-A 5 Strip (coiled
or spooled) Dimensions shall be as specified on purchase order or contract.

BCu-1 Round wire Diameter 1 (0.031)

32 0.8
RBCuZn-A (coiled) 1 (0.062)
16 1.6
RBCuZn-C 18 in. (455 mm) and 3
32 (0.096) 2.4
RBCuZn-D Rod (straight Length and 36 in. (910 mm) 1 (0.125)
8 3.2
lengths) Diameter 5
32 (0.156) 4.0
3
16 (0.188) 4.8
1 (0.250)
4 6.4
5
16 (0.312) 8.0
3 (0.375)
8 9.5
BCu-1a
BCu-2 5 Powder and
Paste
Mesh Size 140C
140F
325
(continued)

188
 PART C SPECIFICATIONS FOR WELDING RODS,
ELECTRODES, AND FILLER METALS SFA-5.8

TABLE 8 (CONTD)
STANDARD FORMS AND SIZES

Standard Sizes

Thickness or Diameter
AWS Dimensions Width, Length,
Classification Standard Form Specified or Mesh Size in. mm

BVCu-1x
5 Strip, round wire
(coils or spools)
Dimensions shall be as specified on purchase order or contract.

BNi Cast round rod Diameter 1 (0.062) 1.6

16
All Classifica- (straight 1 (0.125) 3.2

8
tions except lengths)c
BNi-5a

BCo Cast and Width and 1 in. (3.2 mm) to 4
8 0.001 0.025
wrought Thickness in. (102 mm) 0.0015d 0.037
(borided) foil 0.002 0.05
0.0025 0.06

Bonded powder Dimensions shall be as specified on purchase order or contract.
rope, sheet and
transfer tapee

Powder and Mesh Size 140C
paste 140F
325

0.001 0.025
1 in. (3.2 mm) to 4
8
0.0015 0.037
BNi-5a foil
in. (102 mm)
0.002 0.05
0.0025 0.05

NOTES:
a. BAg-2, -3, -4, -22 and -26 as filler metal clad or bonded to each side of a copper core is also a standard form. The standard thickness ratio
of filler metal:copper core:filler metal cladding is 1:2:1 or 1:4:1.
b. BAlSi-2, -5, -7, -9 and -11 filler metal clad or bonded to one or both sides of an aluminum alloy is also standard form. The standard thickness
of the filler metal cladding is 5 to 10 percent of the thickness of the aluminum alloy core.
c. Tolerances listed in Table 9 do not apply for cast rod forms.
d. Available in widths up to 2 in. (50 mm).
e. Tolerances listed in Table 10 do not apply for these bonded powder forms.

14.3 Size and tolerances of cast rod, transfer tape, shall be included beyond the identification of the unit
bonded sheet and bonded rope shall be as agreed upon package. When so prescribed, the use of pressure
between the purchaser and supplier. sensitive labels or imprint marking shall become a
requirement for conformance of filler metals to this
specification.
15. Special Identification Labels or Marking
15.1 Filler metal identification is to be accomplished
by tags, labels or appropriate marking of the unit
package. Unit packages include coils, spools, bundles,
mandrels, and containers. Specific marking requirements 16. Packaging
are contained in Section 17.
Brazing filler metals shall be suitably packaged to
15.2 When required by the purchase order or contract, ensure against damage during shipment or storage under
special identification, of individual pieces of filler metal normal conditions.

189
SFA-5.8 1998 SECTION II

TABLE 9
TOLERANCES FOR WROUGHT WIRE AND RODa

Tolerances 6

Rectangular

Nominal Sizeb Round Thickness Width

Form Condition in. mm in. mm in. mm in. mm

Wire Cold Drawn or 0.0100.020 incl. 0.250.51 0.0003 0.008 0.0008 0.020 0.005 0.13
Cold Rolled over 0.0200.030 incl. 0.510.8 0.0005 0.013 0.0016 0.041 0.005 0.13
over 0.0300.040 incl. 0.81.0 0.0007 0.018 0.0018 0.046 0.005 0.13
over 0.0400.050 incl. 1.01.3 0.0008 0.020 0.0020 0.051 0.005 0.13
over 0.0500.060 incl. 1.31.5 0.0010 0.025 0.0025 0.064 0.005 0.13
over 0.0600.080 incl. 1.52.0 0.0015 0.038 0.003 0.08 0.005 0.13
over 0.0800.250 incl. 2.06.4 0.0020 0.051 0.004 0.10 0.005 0.13

Rod Cold Drawn or 5 and under 4.0 0.003 0.08 0.009 0.23 0.010 0.25
32
Cold Rolled 3 and over 4.8 0.004 0.10 0.010 0.25 0.010 0.25
16
(round, rectan-
gular or
square)

Rod Hot Rolled or 3 1 incl. 1.21.6 0.005 0.13 0.008 0.20 0.010 0.25
64 16
& Extruded over 11618 incl. 1.63.2 0.006 0.15 0.009 0.23 0.010 0.25
Wire over 18316 incl. 3.24.8 0.007 0.18 0.009 0.23 0.010 0.25
over 31614 incl. 4.86.4 0.008 0.20 0.010 0.25 0.010 0.25
NOTES:
a. Tolerances for cast rod shall be as agreed by purchaser and supplier.
b. Diameter for round; thickness or width for rectangular.

17. Marking of Packages WARNING:

17.1 The following product information (as a mini-
mum) shall be legibly marked on the outside of each Protect yourself and others.
unit package:
Read and understand this information.
(1) AWS classification and specification (including
the year of issue) FUMES AND GASES can be dangerous to your
(2) Suppliers name and trade designation health.
(3) Size and net weight
(4) Lot, control, or heat number HEAT RAYS (INFRARED RADIATION from
(5) Date of manufacture for tape and paste flame or hot metal) can injure eyes.
O Before use, read, understand, and follow the manu-
facturers instructions, Material Safety Data Sheets
17.2 Marking of any overpacking of unit packages (MSDSs), and your employers safety practices.
only requires conformance with regulation of D.O.T. O Keep your head out of the fumes.
or other shipping agencies. Items listed in 17.1 are not O Use enough ventilation, exhaust at the work, or
required in any overpacking. both, to keep fumes and gases from your breathing
zone and the general area.
17.3 The following precautionary information (as a O Wear correct eye, ear, and body protection.
minimum) shall be prominently displayed in legible O See American National Standard Z49.1, Safety in
print on all packages of brazing filler metals including Welding and Cutting, published by the American
individual unit packages enclosed within a larger Welding Society, 550 N.W. LeJeune Road, P.O.
package. Box 351040, Miami, Florida 33135; OSHA Safety

190
 PART C SPECIFICATIONS FOR WELDING RODS,
ELECTRODES, AND FILLER METALS SFA-5.8

TABLE 10
TOLERANCES FOR FOIL STRIP AND SHEET

Thickness Tolerance 6

Width Width
8 in. (200 mm) over 8 in.
Nominal Thickness and under (200 mm)

in. mm in. mm in. mm

0.006 and under 0.15 and under 0.0006 0.015 0.0008 0.020
over 0.0060.013 incl. over 0.150.33 incl. 0.0010 0.025 0.0010 0.025
over 0.0130.021 incl. over 0.330.53 incl. 0.0015 0.038 0.0015 0.038
over 0.0210.026 incl. over 0.530.66 incl. 0.0020 0.05 0.0020 0.051

Width Tolerance 6

Thickness of Thickness of
0.062 in. (1.59 mm) 0.063 in. (1.60 mm) to
Nominal Width and under 0.125 in. (3.18 mm) incl.

in. mm in. mm in. mm

0.0621.0 1.59 to 25 incl. 0.005 0.13 0.007 0.18
over 1.02.0 incl. over 2551 incl. 0.005 0.13 0.009 0.23
over 2.06.0 incl. over 51152 incl. 0.005 0.13 0.012 0.30
over 6.015.0 incl. over 152381 incl. 0.007 0.18 0.017 0.43
over 15.020.0 incl. over 381508 incl. 0.007 0.18 0.017 0.43

and Health Standards, 29 CFR 1910, available O Do not breathe fumes. Even brief exposure to high
from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Wash- concentrations should be avoided.
ington, DC 20402. O Use only with enough ventilation, exhaust at the
work, or both to keep fumes from your breathing
zone and the general area. If this cannot be done,
DO NOT REMOVE THIS LABEL use air supplied respirators.
O Keep children away when using.
O See American Standard Z49.1, Safety in Welding
17.4 In addition to the precautionary information in and Cutting available from the American Welding
17.3, all packages (including individual unit packages Society, 550 N.W. LeJeune Road, P.O. Box 351040
enclosed within a larger package) of BAg-1, BAg-1a, Miami, Florida 33135; OSHA Safety and Health
BAg-2, BAg-2a, BAg-3, BAg-27, and BAg-33 shall Standards, 29 CFR 1910, available from the U.S.
have as a minimum, the following cadmium warning, Government Printing Office, Washington, DC
permanently affixed and prominently displayed in legi- 20402.
ble print.

DANGER:
If chest pain, shortness of breath, cough, or fever
CONTAINS CADMIUM. Protect yourself and develop after use, obtain medical help
others. Read and understand this label. immediately.

FUMES ARE POISONOUS AND CAN KILL

O Before use, read, understand, and follow the manu-
facturers instructions, Material Safety Data Sheets
(MSDSs) and your employers safety practices. DO NOT REMOVE THIS LABEL

191
SFA-5.8 1998 SECTION II

Appendix
Guide to AWS Specification for Filler Metals for Brazing
and Braze Welding

(This Appendix is not a part of ANSI /AWS A5.8-92, Specification for Filler Metals for Brazing and Braze Welding, but is in-
cluded for information only.)

A1. Introduction A2. Method of Classification

A1.1 This guide has been prepared as an aid to A2.1 The classification method for brazing filler
users of brazing filler metals, to help them determine metals is based on chemical composition rather than
which classification of brazing filler metal is best for on mechanical property requirements. The mechanical
a particular job. The AWS Brazing Handbook should properties of a brazed joint depend, among other things,
be consulted for more detailed information. If the on the base metal and filler metal used. Therefore, a
component will have critical applications, the latest classification method based on mechanical properties
edition of ANSI /AWS C3.3, Recommended Practices would be misleading since it would only apply if the
for Design, Manufacture, and Inspection of Critical brazing filler metal were used on a given base metal
Brazed Components, should be followed. with a specific joint design. If a user of brazing filler
metal desires to determine the mechanical properties
A1.2 This specification is intended to provide both of a given base metal and filler metal combination,
the supplier and the user of brazing filler metals with tests should be conducted using the latest edition of
a guide for production control and a basis of acceptance ANSI /AWS C3.2, Standard Method for Evaluating the
through mutually acceptable standard requirements. This Strength of Brazed Joints.
specification classifies only those filler metals that were
commercially significant at the time it was issued. Other A2.2 Brazing filler metals are standardized into seven
brazing filler metals, as they become commercially groups of classifications as follows: silver, gold, alumi-
significant, may be added to the specification, and those num, copper, nickel, cobalt, and magnesium filler metals.
that lose their commercial significance may be dropped. Many filler metals of these classifications are used for
joining assemblies for vacuum applications, such as
A1.3 Brazing is a group of welding processes that vacuum tubes and other electronic devices. For these
produces coalescence of materials by heating them to critical applications, it is desirable to hold the high
the brazing temperature in the presence of a filler metal vapor pressure elements to a minimum, as they usually
having a liquidus above 840F (450C) and below the contaminate the vacuum with vaporized elements during
solidus of the base metal. The filler metal is distributed operation of the device. Filler metals for electronic
between the closely fitted faying surfaces of the joint devices have been incorporated as additional vacuum
by capillary action. grade classifications within this specification.

A1.4 Brazing filler metals are metals that are added A2.3 The basic groups of classifications of brazing
when making a braze. They have a liquidus below that filler metal are identified, as shown in Tables 1 through
of the materials being brazed and above 840F (450C), 6, by the principal element in their chemical composi-
with properties suitable for making joints by capillary tion. In a typical example, such as BCuP-2, the B
action between closely fitted surfaces. is for brazing filler metal (as the E for electrodes

192
 PART C SPECIFICATIONS FOR WELDING RODS,
ELECTRODES, AND FILLER METALS SFA-5.8

and the R for welding rods in other AWS specifica- The only testing requirement implicit in this certifi-
tions). The RB in RBCuZn-A, RBCuZn-C, and cation is that the manufacturer has actually conducted
RBCuZn-D indicates that the filler metal is suitable as the tests required by the specification on filler metal
a welding rod and as a brazing filler metal. CuP is that is representative of that being shipped and that
for copper-phosphorus, the two principal elements in the filler metal met the requirements of this specification.
this particular brazing filler metal. (Similarly, in other Representative filler metal, in this case, is any production
brazing filler metals, Si is for silicon, Ag for silver, run of that classification from the same heat or lot. The
etc., using standard chemical symbols.) The numeral or basis for the certification required by the specification is
letter following the chemical symbol indicates chemical the classification test of representative filler metal
composition within a group. cited above, and the Manufacturers Quality Assurance
The vacuum grade nomenclature follows the examples Program in ANSI /AWS A5.01.
above, with two exceptions. The first exception is the
addition of the letter V, yielding the generic letters
A5. Ventilation During Brazing
BV for brazing filler metals for vacuum service. The
second exception is the use of the grade suffix number: A5.1 The following five major factors govern the
Grade 1 to indicate the more stringent requirements quantity of fumes to which brazers and brazing operators
for high vapor pressure impurities, and Grade 2 to can be exposed during brazing:
indicate less stringent requirements for high vapor (1) Dimensions of the space in which brazing is
pressure impurities. Vacuum grade filler metals are done (with special regard to the height of the ceiling)
considered to be spatter-free. Therefore, this specifica- (2) Number of brazers and brazing operators working
tion no longer lists spatter-free and nonspatter-free in that space
vacuum grades. An example of a filler metal for vacuum (3) Rate of evolution of fumes, gases, or dust, ac-
service is BVAg-6b, Grade 1. Table 6 lists filler metals cording to the materials and processes involved
for vacuum service. (4) The proximity of the brazer or brazing operators
to the fumes as they issue from the brazing zone, and
to the gases and dusts in the space in which they are
A3. Acceptance working
(5) The ventilation provided to the space in which
Acceptance of all brazing filler metals classified under
the brazing is done
this specification is in accordance with ANSI /AWS
A5.01, Filler Metal Procurement Guidelines, as this A5.2 American National Standard Z49.1-88 discusses
specification states. Any testing a purchaser requires the ventilation that is required during welding and
of the supplier, for filler metal shipped in accordance should be referred to for details. Attention is particularly
with this specification, should be clearly stated in drawn to Section 5 of that document, Ventilation.
the purchase order, according to the provisions of
ANSI /AWS A5.01. In the absence of any such statement
A6. Brazing Considerations
in the purchase order, the supplier may ship the filler
metal with whatever testing the supplier normally con- A6.1 To avoid confusion, solidus and liquidus are
ducts on filler metal of that classification, as specified specified instead of melting and flow points. The terms
in Schedule F, Table 1, of ANSI /AWS A5.01. Testing solidus and liquidus are defined as follows:6
in accordance with any other Schedule in that Table (1) Solidus. The highest temperature under equilib-
should be specifically required by the purchase order. rium conditions at which the metal is completely solid;
In such cases, acceptance of the filler metal shipped that is, the temperature at which melting starts.
should be in accordance with those requirements. (2) Liquidus. The lowest temperature under equilib-
rium conditions at which the metal is completely liquid;
that is, the temperature at which freezing starts.
A4. Certification
A6.2 Table A1 in the Appendix lists the solidus,
The act of placing the AWS specification and classi- liquidus, and also the recommended brazing temperature
fication designations on the packaging enclosing the range for the various brazing filler metals. When brazing
product, or the classification on the product itself, with some brazing filler metals (particularly those with
constitutes the suppliers or manufacturers certification a wide temperature range between solidus and liquidus),
that the product meets all of the requirements of the
specification. 6 ASM Handbook, 8th Ed. Vol 1.

193
SFA-5.8 1998 SECTION II

TABLE A1
SOLIDUS, LIQUIDUS, AND BRAZING TEMPERATURE RANGES*

Solidus Liquidus Brazing Temperature Range

AWS
Classification F C F C F C
SILVER
BAg-1 1125 607 1145 618 11451400 618760
BAg-1a 1160 627 1175 635 11751400 635760
BAg-2 1125 607 1295 702 12951550 702843
BAg-2a 1125 607 1310 710 13101550 710843
BAg-3 1170 632 1270 688 12701500 688816
BAg-4 1240 671 1435 779 14351650 779899
BAg-5 1225 663 1370 743 13701550 743843
BAg-6 1270 688 1425 774 14251600 774871
BAg-7 1145 618 1205 652 12051400 652760
BAg-8 1435 779 1435 779 14351650 779899
BAg-8a 1410 766 1410 766 14101600 766871
BAg-9 1240 671 1325 718 13251550 718843
BAg-10 1275 691 1360 738 13601550 738843
BAg-13 1325 718 1575 857 15751775 857968
BAg-13a 1420 771 1640 893 16001800 871982
BAg-18 1115 602 1325 718 13251550 718843
BAg-19 1400 760 1635 891 16101800 877982
BAg-20 1250 677 1410 766 14101600 766871
BAg-21 1275 691 1475 802 14751650 802899
BAg-22 1260 680 1290 699 12901525 699830
BAg-23 1760 960 1780 970 17801900 9701038
BAg-24 1220 660 1305 750 13051550 750843
BAg-26 1305 705 1475 800 14751600 800870
BAg-27 1125 605 1375 745 13751575 745860
BAg-28 1200 649 1310 710 13101550 710843
BAg-33 1125 607 1260 682 12601400 681760
BAg-34 1200 649 1330 721 13301550 721843
BAg-35 1265 685 1390 754 13901545 754841
BAg-36 1195 646 1251 677 12511495 677813
BAg-37 1270 688 1435 779 14351625 779885
BVAg-0 1761 961 1761 961 17611900 9611038
BVAg-6b 1435 779 1602 872 16001800 871982
BVAg-8 1435 779 1435 779 14351650 779899
BVAg-8b 1435 779 1463 795 14701650 799899
BVAg-18 1115 602 1325 718 13251550 718843
BVAg-29 1155 624 1305 707 13051450 707788
BVAg-30 1485 807 1490 810 14901700 810927
BVAg-31 1515 824 1565 852 15651625 852885
BVAg-32 1650 900 1740 950 17401800 950982
GOLD
BAu-1 1815 991 1860 1016 18602000 10161093
BAu-2 1635 891 1635 891 16351850 8911010
BAu-3 1785 974 1885 1029 18851995 10291091
BAu-4 1740 949 1740 949 17401840 9491004
BAu-5 2075 1135 2130 1166 21302250 11661232
BAu-6 1845 1007 1915 1046 19152050 10461121
BVAu-2 1635 891 1635 891 16351850 8911010
BVAu-4 1740 949 1740 949 17401840 9491004
BVAu-7 2015 1102 2050 1121 20502110 11211154
BVAu-8 2190 1200 2265 1240 22652325 12401274

194
 PART C SPECIFICATIONS FOR WELDING RODS,
ELECTRODES, AND FILLER METALS SFA-5.8

TABLE A1 (CONTD)
SOLIDUS, LIQUIDUS, AND BRAZING TEMPERATURE RANGES*

Solidus Liquidus Brazing Temperature Range

AWS
Classification F C F C F C
PALLADIUM
BVPd-1 2245 1230 2255 1235 22552285 12351252
ALUMINUM
BAlSi-2 1070 577 1142 617 11101150 599621
BAlSi-3 970 521 1085 585 10601120 571604
BAlSi-4 1070 577 1080 582 10801120 582604
BAlSi-5 1070 577 1095 591 10901120 588604
BAlSi-7 1038 559 1105 596 10901120 588604
BAlSi-9 1044 562 1080 582 10801120 582604
BAlSi-11 1038 559 1105 596 10901120 588604
COPPER
BCu-1 1981 1083 1981 1083 20002100 10931149
BCu-1a 1981 1083 1981 1083 20002100 10931149
BVCu-1X 1981 1083 1981 1083 20002100 10931149
BCu-2 1981 1083 1981 1083 20002100 10931149
RBCuZn-A 1630 888 1650 899 16701750 910954
RBCuZn-B 1590 866 1620 882 16201800 882982
RBCuZn-C 1590 866 1630 888 16701750 910954
RBCuZn-D 1690 921 1715 935 17201800 938982
BCuP-1 1310 710 1695 924 14501700 788927
BCuP-2 1310 710 1460 793 13501550 732843
BCuP-3 1190 643 1495 813 13251500 718816
BCuP-4 1190 643 1325 718 12751450 691788
BCuP-5 1190 643 1475 802 13001500 704816
BCuP-6 1190 643 1450 788 13501500 732816
BCuP-7 1190 643 1420 771 13001500 704816
NICKEL
BNi-1 1790 977 1900 1038 19502200 10661204
BNi-1a 1790 977 1970 1077 19702200 10771204
BNi-2 1780 971 1830 999 18502150 10101177
BNi-3 1800 982 1900 1038 18502150 10101177
BNi-4 1800 982 1950 1066 18502150 10101177
BNi-5 1975 1079 2075 1135 21002200 11491204
BNi-5a 1931 1065 2111 1150 21002200 11491204
BNi-6 1610 877 1610 877 17002000 9271093
BNi-7 1630 888 1630 888 17002000 9271093
BNi-8 1800 982 1850 1010 18502000 10101093
BNi-9 1930 1055 1930 1055 19502200 10661204
BNi-10 1780 970 2020 1105 21002200 11491204
BNi-11 1780 970 2003 1095 21002200 11491204
COBALT
BCo-1 2050 1120 2100 1149 21002250 11491232
MAGNESIUM
BMg-1 830 443 1110 599 11201160 604627
*Solidus and liquidus shown are for the nominal composition in each classification.

195
SFA-5.8 1998 SECTION II

the several constituents of the filler metals tend to also has a higher silver plus copper : zinc plus cadmium
separate during the melting process. The lower melting ratio resulting in a slight increase in its resistance to
constituent will flow, leaving behind an unmelted residue corrosion in chlorine, sulfur, and steam environments.
or skull of the high-melting constituent. This occurrence, Either composition may be used where low-temperature,
called liquation, is usually undesirable in that the un- free-flowing filler metals are desired. This filler metal
melted skull does not readily flow into the joint. How- contains cadmium. The special precautions of the warn-
ever, where wide joint clearance occurs, a filler metal ing label in 17.4 should be followed.
with a wide temperature range will usually fill the
capillary joint more easily. A7.1.3 BAg-2 brazing filler metal, like BAg-1, is
free-flowing and suited for general-purpose work. Its
A6.3 Brazing requires an understanding of several broader melting range is helpful where clearances are
elements of procedures which are beyond the scope of wide or are not uniform. Unless heating is rapid, care
this Appendix. The latest edition of the AWS Brazing must be taken that the lower melting constituents do
Handbook should be referred to for particulars on such not separate out by liquation. This filler metal contains
items as cleaning, brazing fluxes, brazing atmospheres, cadmium, and the special precautions of the warning
joint clearances, etc. Also, the latest edition of label in 17.4 should be followed.
ANSI /AWS C3.3, Recommended Practices for Design,
Manufacture, and Inspection of Critical Brazed Compo- A7.1.4 BAg-2a brazing filler metal is similar to
nents, should be referred to for information on proce- BAg-2, but is more economical than BAg-2, since it
dures for critical components. contains five percent less silver. This filler metal contains
cadmium. The special precautions of the warning label
in 17.4 should be followed.
A7. Brazing Characteristics and Applications
A7.1.5 BAg-3 brazing filler metal is a modification
A7.1 BAg Classifications (Silver). Brazing filler met- of BAg-1a, i.e., nickel is added. It has good corrosion
als of the BAg classifications are used for joining most resistance in marine environment and caustic media.
ferrous and nonferrous metals, except aluminum and When used on stainless steel, it will inhibit crevice
magnesium. These filler metals have good brazing (interface) corrosion. Because its nickel content im-
properties and are suitable for preplacement in the joint, proves wetability on tungsten carbide tool tips, the
or for manual feeding into the joint. Although lap largest use is to braze carbide tool assemblies. Melting
joints are generally used, butt joints may be used if range and low fluidity make BAg-3 suitable for forming
requirements are less stringent. Joint clearances of 0.001 larger fillets or filling wide joint clearances. This filler
to 0.005 in. (0.025 to 0.13 mm) are recommended for metal contains cadmium. The special precautions of
proper capillary action. Flux is generally required, the warning label in 17.4 should be followed.
however, on most metals. When furnace brazing in a
protective atmosphere, flux is generally not required. A7.1.6 BAg-4 brazing filler metal, like BAg-3, is
If filler metals containing zinc or cadmium are used used extensively for carbide tip brazing, but flows less
in a protective atmosphere furnace, the zinc or cadmium freely than BAg-3. This filler metal does not contain
is vaporized changing chemical composition as well as cadmium.
the solidus and liquidus. Therefore, filler metals free
A7.1.7 BAg-5 and -6 brazing filler metals are used
of cadmium or zinc are recommended for furnace
especially for brazing in the electrical industry. They
brazing in a protective atmosphere.
are also used, along with BAg-7 and -24, in the
A7.1.1 BAg-1 brazing filler metal has the lowest dairy and food industries where the use of cadmium-
brazing temperature range of the BAg filler metals. It containing filler metals is prohibited. BAg-5 is an
also flows most freely into narrow clearance capillary excellent filler metal for brazing brass parts (such as
joints. Its narrow melting range is suitable for rapid in ships piping, band instruments, lamps, etc.). Since
or slow methods of heating. This filler metal contains BAg-6 has a broad melting range and is not so free-
cadmium. The special precautions of the warning label flowing as BAg-1 and -2, it is a better filler metal for
in 17.4 should be followed. BAg-1 is more economical filling wide joint clearances or forming large fillets.
(less silver) than BAg-1a.
A7.1.8 BAg-7 brazing filler metal, a cadmium-
A7.1.2 BAg-1a brazing filler metal has properties free substitute for BAg-1, is low-melting with good
similar to BAg-1. BAg-1a has a narrower melting range flow and wetting properties. Typical applications include
than BAg-1 making it slightly more free-flowing. It the following:

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 PART C SPECIFICATIONS FOR WELDING RODS,
ELECTRODES, AND FILLER METALS SFA-5.8

(1) For food equipment where cadmium must be A7.1.16 BAg-20 brazing filler metal possesses
avoided good wetting and flow characteristics, and has a brazing
(2) To minimize stress corrosion cracking of nickel temperature range higher than the popular Ag-Cu-Zn-
or nickel-base alloys at low brazing temperatures Cd compositions. Due to its good brazing properties,
(3) Where the white color will improve color match freedom from cadmium, and a more economical silver
with the base metal content, new uses for this filler metal are being de-
veloped.
A7.1.9 BAg-8 brazing filler metal is suitable for
furnace brazing in a protective atmosphere without the A7.1.17 BAg-21 brazing filler metal is used in
use of a flux, as well as for brazing procedures requiring brazing AISI 300 and 400 series stainless steels, as
a flux. It is usually used on copper or copper alloys. well as the precipitation hardening nickel and steel
When molten, BAg-8 is very fluid and may flow out alloys. BAg-21 is particularly suited to furnace brazing
over the workpiece surfaces during some furnace brazing in a protective atmosphere because of the absence of
applications. It can also be used on stainless steel, zinc and cadmium. It does not require a flux for proper
nickel-base alloys and carbon steel, although its wetting brazing when the temperature is 1850F (1010C) or
action on these metals is slow. Higher brazing tempera- above. It requires a high brazing temperature, and it
tures will improve flow and wetting. flows in a sluggish manner. The nickel-rich layer (halo)
formed along the fillet edges during melting and flow
A7.1.10 BAg-8a brazing filler metal is used for of the filler metal prevent crevice (interface) corrosion
brazing in a protective atmosphere and is advantageous of stainless steels. This is particularly important for
when brazing precipitation-hardening and other stainless the 400 series steels that do not contain nickel and
steels in the 1400 to 1600F (760 to 870C) range. are, therefore, more susceptible to crevice (interface)
The lithium content serves to promote wetting and to corrosion. BAg-21 has been used for brazing stainless
increase the flow of the filler metal on difficult-to- steel vanes of aircraft gas turbine engines.
braze metals and alloys. Lithium is particularly helpful
on base metals containing minor amounts of titanium A7.1.18 BAg-22 is a low-temperature, cadmium-
free filler metal with improved brazing characteristics
or aluminum.
over BAg-3, particularly in brazing tungsten carbide
A7.1.11 BAg-9 and -10 filler metals are used tools.
particularly for joining sterling silver. These filler metals A7.1.19 BAg-23 is a high-temperature, free-flowing
have different brazing temperatures and so can be used filler metal usable both for torch brazing and furnace
for step brazing of successive joints. The color, after brazing in a protective atmosphere. This filler metal is
brazing, approximates the color of sterling silver. mainly used in brazing stainless steel, nickel-base and
A7.1.12 BAg-13 brazing filler metal is used for cobalt-base alloys for high-temperature applications. If
service temperatures up to 700F (370C). Its low zinc this filler metal is used in a hard vacuum atmosphere,
content makes it suitable for furnace brazing. a loss of manganese will occur due to its high vapor
pressure. Thus, a soft vacuum, produced by inert gas
A7.1.13 BAg-13a brazing filler metal is similar back filling a hard vacuum, is desirable when brazing
to BAg-13, except that it contains no zinc, which is with this filler metal.
advantageous where volatilization is objectionable in
A7.1.20 BAg-24 brazing filler metal is low-melting,
furnace brazing.
free-flowing, cadmium-free, and suitable for use in
A7.1.14 BAg-18 brazing filler metal is similar to joining 300 series stainless steels (particularly food-
BAg-8 in its applications. Its tin content helps promote handling equipment and hospital utensils), and small
wetting on stainless steel, nickel-base alloys, and carbon tungsten carbide inserts in cutting tools.
steel. BAg-18 has a lower liquidus than BAg-8 and is A7.1.21 BAg-26 brazing filler metal is a low-
used in step brazing applications where fluxless brazing silver, cadmium-free filler metal suitable for carbide
is important. and stainless steel brazing. The filler metal is character-
ized by its low brazing temperature, good wetting and
A7.1.15 BAg-19 brazing filler metal is used for
flow, and moderate-strength joints when used with these
the same applications as BAg-8a. BAg-19 is often
base metals.
used in higher brazing temperature applications where
precipitation-hardening heat treatment and brazing are A7.1.22 BAg-27 brazing filler metal is similar to
combined. BAg-2 but has lower silver and is somewhat more

197
SFA-5.8 1998 SECTION II

subject to liquation, due to a wider melting range. This A7.2.2 BAu-4 brazing filler metal is used to braze
filler metal contains cadmium. The special precautions a wide range of high-temperature iron- and nickel-base
of the warning label in 17.4 should be followed. alloys.

A7.1.23 BAg-28 brazing filler metal has a lower A7.2.3 BAu-5 brazing filler metal is primarily
brazing temperature with a narrower melting range than used for joining heat- and corrosion-resistant base metals
other cadmium-free classifications with similar silver where corrosion-resistant joints with good strength at
content. BAg-28 also has free-flowing characteristics. high temperatures are required. This filler metal is well
suited for furnace brazing under protective atmospheres
A7.1.24 BAg-33 brazing filler metal was developed (including vacuum).
to minimize brazing temperature for a filler metal
containing 25 percent silver. It has a lower liquidus A7.2.4 BAu-6 brazing filler metal is primarily
and, therefore, a narrower melting range than BAg-27. used for joining of iron and nickel-base superalloys
Its higher total zinc plus cadmium content may require for service at elevated temperature. This filler metal
more care during brazing. The special precautions of is well suited for furnace brazing under protective
the warning label in 17.4 should be followed. atmospheres (including vacuum).
A7.3 BAlSi Classifications (Aluminum-Silicon).
A7.1.25 BAg-34 brazing filler metal is a cadmium-
Brazing filler metals of the BAlSi classifications are
free filler metal with free-flowing characteristics. The
used for joining the following grades of aluminum and
brazing temperature range is similar to that of BAg-2
aluminum alloys: 1060, 1350, 1100, 3003, 3004, 3005,
and BAg-2a, making it an ideal substitute for these
5005, 5050, 6053, 6061, 6951, 7005, and cast alloys
filler metals.
710.0 and 711.0. Joint clearances of 0.006 to 0.010
A7.1.26 BAg-35 is a cadmium-free filler metal in. (0.15 to 0.25 mm) are common for members which
used for brazing ferrous and nonferrous base metals. overlap less than 1 / 4 in. (6.4 mm). Joint clearances up
It is a moderate temperature filler metal frequently used to 0.025 in. (0.64 mm) are used for members which
for production brazing applications. overlap more than 1 / 4 in. Fluxing is essential for all
processes, except when brazing aluminum in a vacuum.
A7.1.27 BAg-36 is a low temperature, cadmium- After brazing with flux, the brazed parts should be
free, filler metal suitable for brazing ferrous and nonfer- cleaned thoroughly. Immersion in boiling water gener-
rous base metals. The lower brazing temperature makes ally will remove the residue. If this is not adequate, the
it a useful replacement for several of the cadmium- parts are usually immersed in a concentrated commercial
bearing classifications. nitric acid, or other suitable acid solution and then
rinsed thoroughly.
A7.1.28 BAg-37 brazing filler metal is a cadmium-
free material frequently used for brazing steel, copper A7.3.1 BAlSi-2 brazing filler metal is available
and brass. The low silver content makes it an economical as sheet and as a cladding on one or both sides of a
filler metal suitable for applications where lower ductil- brazing sheet having a core of either 3003 or 6951
ity is acceptable. aluminum alloy. It is used for furnace and dip braz-
ing only.
A7.2 BAu Classifications (Gold). Brazing filler met-
als of the BAu classifications are used for the brazing A7.3.2 BAlSi-3 is a general purpose brazing filler
of iron, nickel, and cobalt base metals where better metal. It is used with all brazing processes, with some
ductility or a greater resistance to oxidation and corro- casting alloys, and where limited flow is desired.
sion is required. Because of their low rate of interaction A7.3.3 BAlSi-4 is a general purpose brazing filler
with the base metal, they are commonly used on thin metal. It is used with all brazing processes requiring
base metals. These filler metals are usually used with a free-flowing filler metal and good corrosion resistance.
induction, furnace, or resistance brazing in a protective
atmosphere. In these cases, no flux is used. For other A7.3.4 BAlSi-5 brazing filler metal is available
applications, a borax-boric acid flux is used. as sheet and as a cladding on one side or both sides
of a brazing sheet having a core of 6951 aluminum
A7.2.1 BAu-1, -2, and -3 brazing filler metals, alloy. BAlSi-5 is used for furnace and dip brazing at
when used for different joints in the same assembly, a lower temperature than BAlSi-2. The core alloy
permit variation in brazing temperature so that step- employed in brazing sheet with this filler metal cladding
brazing can be used. can be solution heat-treated and aged.

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 PART C SPECIFICATIONS FOR WELDING RODS,
ELECTRODES, AND FILLER METALS SFA-5.8

A7.3.5 BAlSi-7 is a filler metal suitable for brazing Joint clearances of 0.002 to 0.005 in. (0.06 to 0.13
in a vacuum, available as a cladding on one or both mm) are recommended.
sides of a brazing sheet having a core of 3003 or 6951
A7.4.4 BCuP-6 brazing filler metal combines some
aluminum alloy. The 6951 alloy core can be solution
of the properties of BCuP-2 and BCuP-3. It has the
heat-treated and aged after brazing.
ability to fill wide joint clearances at the lower end
A7.3.6 BAlSi-9 is a filler metal suitable for brazing of its brazing range. At the high end of the brazing
in a vacuum, available as a cladding on one side or range it is more fluid. Joint clearances of 0.002 to
both sides of a brazing sheet having a core of 3003 0.005 in. (0.06 to 0.13 mm) are recommended.
aluminum alloy and is typically used in heat-exchanger
A7.4.5 BCuP-7 brazing filler metal is slightly more
applications to join fins made from 5000 or 6000 series
fluid than BCuP-3 or -5 and has a lower liquidus
aluminum alloys.
temperature. It is used extensively in the form of
A7.3.7 BAlSi-11 is a brazing sheet clad on one preplaced rings in heat exchanger and tubing joints.
or two sides of alloy 3105 to form a composite sheet Joint clearances of 0.002 to 0.005 in. (0.06 to 0.13
suitable for brazing in a vacuum, designed for brazing mm) are recommended.
in a multizone furnace where the vacuum level is
A7.5 BCu and RBCuZn Classifications (Copper
interrupted one or more times during a brazing cycle.
and Copper-Zinc). Brazing filler metals of the BCu
The composite can be used in batch-type vacuum
and RBCuZn classifications are used for joining various
furnaces; however, vacuum sheet suitable for brazing
ferrous and nonferrous metals. They can also be used
with a 3003 core is more resistant to erosion. The
with various brazing processes. However, with the
maximum brazing temperature for the BAlSi-11 /3105
RBCuZn filler metals, overheating should be avoided.
composite is 1110F (595C).
Voids may be formed in the joint by entrapped zinc
A7.4 BCuP Classifications (Copper-Phosphorus). vapors.
Brazing filler metals of the BCuP classifications are
A7.5.1 BCu-1 brazing filler metal is used for
used primarily for joining copper and copper alloys,
joining ferrous metals, nickel-base alloys and copper-
although they have some limited use on silver, tungsten,
nickel alloys. It is very free-flowing and is often used
and molybdenum. These filler metals should not be
in furnace brazing, with a protective atmosphere of
used on ferrous or nickel-base alloys or copper-nickel
partially-combusted natural gas, hydrogen, dissociated
alloys containing a nickel content in excess of 10
ammonia or nitrogen-base atmosphere and generally no
percent as brittle intermetallic compounds are formed
flux. On metals that have constituents with difficult-to-
at the filler metal /base metal interface. They are suitable
reduce oxides (chromium, manganese, silicon, titanium,
for all brazing processes. These filler metals have self-
vanadium, and aluminum) a flux may be required.
fluxing properties when used on copper; however, a
However, pure dry hydrogen, argon, dissociated ammo-
flux is recommended when used on all other base
nia, and vacuum atmospheres are suitable for base
metals, including alloys of copper. Corrosion resistance
metals containing chromium, manganese, or silicon.
is satisfactory, except when the joint is in contact with
Flux also may be used with zinc-containing base metals
sulfurous atmospheres. It should be noted that the
to retard vaporization. Vacuum atmospheres, electrolytic
brazing temperature ranges begin below the liquidus
nickel plating, or both, are used for base metals con-
(see Table A1).
taining titanium and aluminum.
A7.4.1 BCuP-1 brazing filler metal is particularly
A7.5.2 BCu-1a brazing filler metal is a powder
suited for resistance brazing applications. This filler
form similar to BCu-1, and its application and use are
metal is somewhat more ductile and less fluid at brazing
similar to those of BCu-1.
temperature than other BCuP filler metals containing
more phosphorus. Joint clearances of 0.003 to 0.005 A7.5.3 BCu-2 brazing filler metal is supplied as
in. (0.08 to 0.13 mm) are recommended. a copper-oxide suspension in an organic vehicle. Its
applications are similar to BCu-1 and -1a.
A7.4.2 BCuP-2 and -4 brazing filler metals are
very fluid at brazing temperatures and will penetrate A7.5.4 RBCuZn-A7 brazing filler metal is used
joints with small clearances. Best results are obtained on steels, copper, copper alloys, nickel, nickel alloys,
with clearances of 0.001 to 0.003 in. (0.03 to 0.08 mm). and stainless steel where corrosion resistance is not of
A7.4.3 BCuP-3 and -5 brazing filler metals may
be used where narrow joint clearances cannot be held. 7 RBCuZn-X Filler metals are used for braze welding applications.

199
SFA-5.8 1998 SECTION II

importance. It is used with torch, furnace, and induction phosphorus is combined with some other elements,
brazing processes. Fluxing is generally required, and a these compounds have very low vapor pressures and
borax-boric acid flux is commonly used. Joint clearances can be readily used in a vacuum brazing atmosphere
from 0.002 to 0.005 in. (0.05 to 0.13 mm) are suitable. of 1 103 Torr (0.13 Pa) at 1950F (1066C) without
removal of the phosphorus.
A7.5.5 RBCuZn-B (low-fuming brass-nickel) weld-
Greater strength and ductility in this group of filler
ing rods are similar to RBCuZn-A, but contain additions
metals is obtainable by diffusion brazing.
of iron and manganese which serve to increase the
hardness and strength. In addition, a small amount A7.6.1 BNi-1 filler metal was the first of the nickel
of silicon (0.04-0.15 percent) serves to control the filler metals to be developed. The nickel, chromium, and
vaporization of the zinc; hence, the low-fuming prop- iron contents render it suitable for brazing nickel,
erty. The nickel addition (0.2 to 0.8 percent) assures chromium or iron base metals. While high carbon
uniform distribution of the iron in the deposit. content in 300 series stainless steels is usually metallur-
This filler metal is used for brazing and braze welding gically undesirable from a corrosion standpoint, the high
of steel, cast iron, copper, copper alloys, nickel, nickel carbon in BNi-1 would appear to make it undesirable for
alloys, and stainless steel. RBCuZn-B filler metal also brazing stainless steels. The Strauss test for corrosion
is used for the surfacing of steel. It is used with has been run by one aircraft engine company and did
torch, induction, and furnace processes. Flux and joint not show any adverse effect of the high-carbon content
clearances are the same as those specified for on the corrosion resistance of joints in base metals
RBCuZn-A. such as AISI 347 stainless steels. The reason given
for this is that the carbon is already tied up with the
A7.5.6 RBCuZn-C brazing filler metal is used on
chromium in the filler metal.
steels, copper, copper alloys, nickel, nickel alloys, and
stainless steel. It is used with the torch, furnace, and A7.6.2 The BNi-1a brazing filler metal is a low-
induction brazing processes. Fluxing is required, and a carbon grade of BNi-1 with an identical chemical
borax-boric acid flux is commonly used. Joint clearances composition, except that while the specified carbon
from 0.002 to 0.005 in. (0.05 to 0.13 mm) are suitable. content is 0.06 percent maximum, the carbon content
A7.5.7 RBCuZn-D brazing filler metal (called is usually 0.03 percent or lower. While the carbon
nickel silver) is primarily used for brazing tungsten content is lower, corrosion testing results with the
carbide. It is also used with steel, nickel, and nickel Strauss and Huey test were no better than for joints
alloys. It can be used with all brazing processes. This made with BNi-1. This filler metal produces stronger
filler metal is unsuitable for furnace brazing in a joints but is less fluid than the BNi-1 filler metal.
protective atmosphere. A7.6.3 BNi-2 brazing filler metal has a low and
A7.6 BNi Classification (Nickel). Brazing filler met- narrower melting range and better flow characteristics
als of the BNi classifications are generally used for than BNi-1. These characteristics have made this filler
their corrosion-resistant and heat-resistant properties. metal the most widely used of the nickel filler metals.
The BNi filler metals have excellent properties at high- A7.6.4 BNi-3 brazing filler metal is used for
service temperatures. They are also satisfactorily used applications similar to BNi-1 and BNi-2 and is less
for room-temperature applications and where the service sensitive to marginally protective atmospheres.
temperatures are equal to the temperature of liquid
oxygen, helium, or nitrogen. Best quality can be obtained A7.6.5 BNi-4 brazing filler metal is similar to but
by brazing in an atmosphere which is reducing to both more ductile than BNi-3. It is used to form large fillets
the base metal and the brazing filler metal. or joints where fairly large joint clearances are present.
Narrow joint clearances and postbraze thermal diffu-
A7.6.6 BNi-5 brazing filler metal is used for
sion cycles are often employed to minimize the presence
applications similar to BNi-1, except that it can be
of intermetallic compounds and low-ductility joint con-
used in certain nuclear applications where boron cannot
ditions. When BNi filler metals are used with the torch,
be tolerated.
air-atmosphere furnace, and induction brazing processes,
a suitable flux must be used. BNi filler metals are A7.6.7 BNi-5a is a modified BNi-5 composition
particularly suited to vacuum systems and vacuum with a reduced silicon content plus a small addition
tube applications because of their low vapor pressure. of boron. The presence of boron excludes this alloy
Chromium is the limiting element in metals to be used from nuclear applications. Otherwise, the applications
in vacuum applications. It should be noted that when are similar to those of BNi-5. High-strength joints can

200
 PART C SPECIFICATIONS FOR WELDING RODS,
ELECTRODES, AND FILLER METALS SFA-5.8

be produced. BNi-5a material can be used in place of A7.6.12 BNi-10 brazing filler metal is a high-
BNi-1 filler metal where a reduced level of boron is strength material for high-temperature applications. The
desired. The brazing of thin-gauge honeycomb to sheet tungsten is a matrix strengthener which makes it useful
metal base parts is a typical application. for brazing base metals containing cobalt, molybdenum,
and tungsten. This filler metal has a wide melting range
A7.6.8 BNi-6 brazing filler metal is free-flowing and has been used for brazing cracks in .020 in. (0.5
and is used in marginally protective atmospheres and mm) thick combustion chambers. It results in a layer
for brazing low-chromium steels in exothermic atmo- of filler metal across the joint which acts as a doubler
spheres. while the lower melting constituent is fluid enough to
A7.6.9 BNi-7 brazing filler metal is used for flow through the thin crack and produce a suitable
the brazing of honeycomb structures, thin-walled tube brazement.
assemblies, and other structures which are used at high A7.6.13 BNi-11 brazing filler metal is a strong
temperatures. It is recommended for nuclear applications material for high-temperature brazement applications.
where boron cannot be used. The best results are The tungsten matrix hardener makes it suitable for
obtained when it is used in the furnace brazing process. brazing base metals containing cobalt, molybdenum,
Microstructure and ductility of the joint are improved and tungsten. With its wider melting range, it is suitable
by increasing time at brazing temperature. for slightly higher than normal brazing clearances.
A7.6.10 BNi-8 brazing filler metal is used in A7.7 BCo Classification (Cobalt). Brazing filler
honeycomb brazements and on stainless steels and other metals of the BCo-1 classification are generally used for
corrosion-resistant base metals. Since this filler metal their high-temperature properties and their compatibility
contains a high percentage of manganese, special brazing with cobalt alloys.
procedures should be observed. As manganese oxidizes A7.8 BMg Classification (Magnesium). Brazing fil-
more readily than chromium, the hydrogen, argon, and ler metal BMg-1 is used for joining AZ10A, K1A, and
helium brazing atmospheres must be pure and very M1A magnesium alloys.
dry, with a dew point of 70F (57C) or below. The
vacuum atmosphere must have low pressure and a low A7.9 Filler Metals for Vacuum Service. These
leak rate to insure a very low partial pressure of oxygen. brazing filler metals are specially controlled to fabricate
It should be noted that the chemical composition and high quality electronic devices where the service life
the melting characteristics of this filler metal will change and operating characteristics are of prime importance.
when the manganese is oxidized or vaporized during Brazing filler metals for vacuum service should be used
brazing in gas or vacuum atmospheres. However, the in a high-purity protective atmosphere in order to
effect of manganese is not a problem in an atmosphere maintain the purity of the filler metal and to assure
of proper quality. proper brazing and final brazement quality. It is very
important in some applications that the brazing filler
A7.6.11 BNi-9 brazing filler metal is a eutectic metal not spatter onto areas near the joint area. For
nickel-chromium-boron filler metal that is particularly this reason, this specification includes spatter test re-
well suited for diffusion brazing applications. Boron quirements, described in Section 11, Spatter Test, for
has a small molecular diameter, thus it diffuses rapidly the vacuum grade classifications.
out of the brazed joint, leaving the nickel-chromium In addition to these special grades, BCo-1 and all
alloy in the joint along with elements that diffuse from BNi brazing filler metals, except BNi-8, are suitable
the base metal into the joint, such as aluminum, titanium, for vacuum service.
etc. Depending on the diffusion time and temperature,
the joint remelt temperature can be above 2500F
A8. Discontinued Classifications
(1371C) and, depending on the base metal, the hardness
can be as low as HRB70. With further diffusion time, A number of filler metal classifications have been
the grains can grow across the joint, and it may appear discontinued during the numerous revisions of this
as all base metal. The single solidus and liquidus specification, reflecting changes in commercial practice
temperature (eutectic) eliminates the possibility of liqua- over the past 40 years. These discontinued filler metal
tion and thus helps in brazing thick sections that require classifications are listed in Table A2, along with the
slower heating. date they were last published.

201
SFA-5.8 1998 SECTION II

TABLE A2
DISCONTINUED BRAZING FILLER METAL
CLASSIFICATIONS

AWS Last A5.8

Classification Publication Date
RBCuZn-1 1952
RBCuZn-2 1952
RBCuZn-3 1952
RBCuZn-4 1952
RBCuZn-5 1952
RBCuZn-6 1952
RBCuZn-7 1952
BAgMn 1956
BAlSi-1 1956
BNiCr 1956
BCuAu-1 1956
BCuAu-2 1956
BAg-11 1962
BMg2 1962
BMg2a 1976
BAlSi-6 1981
BAlSi-8 1981
BAlSi-10 1981
BAg-25 1981
RBCuZn-E 1981
RBCuZn-F 1981
RBCuZn-G 1981
RBCuZn-H 1981
BAg-12

6
BAg-14 The Committee chose not to use these
BAg-15 numbers as they improperly appeared
BAg-16 in another publication.
BAg-17

202