Standard solder

Jewelry Discussion
1

I must have missed this thread. Someone mentioned that “soft” solder won’t
last in the long run. Is “soft” solder the same as “easy” or "extra-easy"
solder? Excuse my ignorance.

Thanks,

rd

2

Soft solder is a mixture of tin and lead that melts at low
tempetatures(less than 500 F.) It is used by plumbers and
stained glass workers. It is not the same as easy solder but the
two are often confused by inexperienced people.Easy solder melts
closer to 1000 F plus.Easy solder makes a much better bond. Soft
solder acts more like a paste that holds by machanical means.

Marilyn Smith

3

I must have missed this thread. Someone mentioned that “soft”
solder won’t last in the long run. Is “soft” solder the same as
“easy” or “extra-easy” solder? Excuse my ignorance.

Hey rd, I think what they are referring to is lead or tin based
solder that is used in electronics and plumbing… I dread seeing
a piece come through my shop that has been butchered up with this
stuff. It really does a number on gold and its very difficult to
remove completely. Ken

4

No, soft solder has lead in it and is pretty much like what you
buy to solder for plumbing at the hardware store. When you piece
is heated to standard soldering temperatures and there’s
something soldered on with soft solder the lead will eat a hole
in your piece. Similarly, in silver work, easy solders and extra
easy will eat into your piece not as much as soft solders but I
never use anything below medium in my work. Some people will even
use only hard solder through their piece. The easy solders also
tarnish quicker and don’t match the metal color and just look bad
on your work. Dave

5

----I agree. Using soft "lead/tin solder on silver is a real
problem. If you try to repair the silver item the solder gets
very corrosive and attacks the silver!! Richard