Installation of copper compressed air lines
by mike wells
(st. louis, mo)
In home shop applications would it be better to braise or soft solder lines and fittings?
Bill answers...Hi Mike. Thanks for the question.
Since I'm not used to brazing, I sweat my copper with solder, and that works just fine.
If you think about it, the pressure that the copper lines and joints will see from most DIY type air compressors is in the 150 PSI range, max.
There's no concern about a soldered joint letting go at those, relatively, low pressures.
On the other hand, if you prefer to braze, go for it.
Far as I'm concerned both will work well, and you should opt for the method that you're most comfortable with, and costs you the least.
Congrats on selecting the higher cost option for plumbing your air lines....copper tube or pipe. Over the long haul, I'm convinced that the payback will be there in less "crud" ending up in your air tools or valves and cylinders.
Cheers,
Bill