How can hard copper tubing be joined?

Joining hard copper tubing can effectively be accomplished through both soldering and brazing. Soldering utilizes a filler metal with a lower melting point than that of the workpieces, allowing the connection to form as the solder melts and flows between the surfaces. This method is particularly advantageous for applications where a strong but less heat-intensive joint is acceptable.

Brazing, on the other hand, involves a higher melting temperature for the filler metal compared to soldering. It creates a robust joint that can withstand higher temperatures and pressures, making it suitable for more demanding applications.

Choosing soldering and brazing as the correct methods reflects the versatility and reliability of these techniques in ensuring strong, leak-proof connections in copper tubing, depending on the demands of the installation or repair being performed. Using fittings alone does not provide the same kind of structural integrity as soldering or brazing and is often not sufficient for securely joining copper tubing in various applications.