How to Solder Radiator Copper Tubing

copper pipe valve

Radiator copper tubing is thicker than regular copper tubing because of its high-pressure usage. They are used as valves for radiators that intake heat and steam from hot water systems. Therefore, it is important to make sure that the valves are leak-free to prevent any possible burns or injuries from hot water spurting from the valves or tubing. Soldering the pipes will fill in any gaps or voids around the joints of tubing and is applied by melting it onto a hot surface.

Things You'll Need

• Emory cloth
• Wire brush
• Flux
• Brush
• Propane torch
• Solder
• Rag

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Instructions

1. Clean off the ends of the pipe with an emory cloth. Rub the ends until they are shiny. Clean the interior of the pipe with a wire brush. Remove any grease and oxidation.

2. Apply flux onto the ends with a brush.

3. Make sure that the pipe section fits into one another.

4. Heat the joints with a propane torch for eight to ten seconds.

5. Apply solder onto the heated joint. The capillary action of the heat will pull the solder into the joint. If the joint is not heated enough, use torch to heat the joint once more.

6. Wipe off excess solder that has dripped or overflowed from the joint with a rag.

7. Brush off excess solder once the joint has cooled.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep any flammable materials away from the propane torch. Also, wear gloves and goggles when handling hot pipes and a torch.

References

• Easy2DIY: Soldering Copper Pipes Tutorial