Arts >> Art >> Sculpture

How to Assemble & Braze a Metal Sculpture

Brazing is essentially the same technique as soldering, but it is performed at a much higher temperature--over 800 degrees Fahrenheit. In place of solder, brazing uses a brazing wire as filler material. Brazing wire creates a very strong bond, but it is also very hard, and it cannot be melted without the use of an oxygen-acetylene torch. If you have been properly trained in the use of oxygen-acetylene torches by a welding professional, then you can use the brazing technique to create very strong joints in metal sculptures.

Things You'll Need

  • Metal sculpture pieces
  • Heat-resistant pad
  • Emery cloth
  • Small paintbrush
  • Liquid flux
  • Clamp
  • Welding mask
  • Welding gloves
  • Oxygen-acetylene torch
  • Brazing wire
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Lay the metal sculpture pieces to be combined on a heat-resistant pad, and test-fit each joint. There should be at least a quarter-inch of overlap between the sculpture components at each joint.

    • 2

      Clean each overlapping metal piece with an emery cloth to remove any surface impurities that can interfere with the brazing process. Rub the pieces with the cloth until they are shiny.

    • 3

      Paint a thin layer of liquid flux on each overlapping sculpture component. The flux will burn off during brazing, leaving behind a clean, de-oxidized environment for the brazing wire to fill.

    • 4

      Clamp the sculpture pieces together in the desired position, and put on a welding mask and welding gloves.

    • 5

      Turn on your oxygen-acetylene torch, and heat the metal sculpture pieces (not the joint itself). Hold a brazing wire against the joint on the opposite side of the torch. When the wire begins to melt, move it slowly around the joint, filling the joint area with the wire.

    • 6

      Allow the sculpture to cool completely before unclamping and brazing the next component.

Sculpture

Related Categories