What does the term "brazing" refer to in metalworking?

The term "brazing" in metalworking specifically refers to the process of joining metals through the use of a filler metal that melts at a temperature above 450 °C (840 °F) but below the melting point of the base metals being joined. This characteristic distinguishes brazing from other metal joining methods, such as soldering, where lower temperatures are used, and welding, which involves melting the base metals themselves.

In brazing, the filler metal is typically applied to the joint area and is heated until it flows into the gap between the base metals. This process creates a strong bond as the filler metal solidifies. The high temperature used in brazing allows for excellent strength and durability in the bond, making it suitable for applications that require structural integrity under stress.

The other options do not accurately describe brazing. Joining metals without the need for heat refers to methods like cold working or adhesive bonding, which do not involve melting. Joining metals at lower temperatures using a filler metal describes soldering rather than brazing. Lastly, forming metals through mechanical pressure is a process related to forging or pressing, which is different from the brazing technique. Therefore, the correct understanding of brazing focuses on its defining characteristics that involve both the temperature and the