How to identify solder on an old boiler

[Russell FurzerParticipant @russellfurzer50760]

second hand boiler assessment

[Russell FurzerParticipant @russellfurzer50760]

I have found an apparently nicely constructed copper boiler in a junk store. It looks home-made and is along the general lines of a ST 501.

I am 99% sure that the solder is proper silver brazing, but wonder if there is a test that i can apply?

I understand the sequence of pressure testing and will do a cold hydrostatic test before talking to our local AMEB inspector

If the solder is not correct (or if it fails the hydro test), i wont bother him and will scrap it

[Speedy Builder5Participant @speedybuilder5]

Lead solder is soft and you could scrape a little off with a pen knife. Silver solder is harder, if you cleaned the joint with some wire wool, it would look a very pale gold colour.

The Stuart ST 501 is a low pressure boiler and even lead solder would be acceptable although if starting afresh lead free these days..

follow this link if in doubt:- Mamod Boiler

Bob

[Author]

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