Fluxing, in the context of various industries and processes, refers to the action or technique of using a substance known as flux to regulate or facilitate an operation. Fluxing is primarily employed in metallurgy, soldering, and welding, among other applications, where it helps to remove impurities, enhance the flow of molten materials, and improve the overall quality of the final product.
In metallurgy, fluxing is the process of using a flux, typically composed of minerals or chemical compounds, to lower the melting point of metals during smelting or refining operations. The flux acts as a cleaning agent, removing unwanted impurities such as oxides and other non-metallic materials, which would otherwise affect the purity and properties of the metal being processed.
In soldering, fluxing involves the application of a substance that helps to clean, protect, and facilitate the bond between the solder and the components being soldered. Fluxing aids in removing surface oxides, promoting wetting of the solder, controlling the temperature distribution, and preventing oxidation during the soldering process.
Similarly, in welding, fluxing is used to shield the weld area from atmospheric contamination, prevent oxidation, and improve the flow and distribution of molten weld metal. This is particularly important in processes such as shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) or stick welding, where a flux-coated electrode is used.
In summary, fluxing is a technique that involves the use of flux to regulate and facilitate various industrial operations, ensuring the removal of impurities, increased flowability, and improved quality of the final product.
