Induction Brazing an Aluminum Assembly

Objective

A company wanted to assess using induction heating for their aluminum assembly brazing process, and contacted THE LAB at Ambrell to utilize free parts testing to test its viability. Their process involved brazing an aluminum extrusion to an aluminum flange with the end-product being a manifold. Speed and quality were the most important factors to them.

Evaluation

THE LAB determined that an Ambrell EASYHEAT 6 kW induction heating power supply with a custom-designed helical coil would work well for this application. 

Initial tests were conducted to optimize the power delivered to the assembly. Once a satisfactory heat pattern was achieved in the timeframe allowed, samples were run at multiple settings. The target temperature can be achieved within 157 seconds with the EASYHEAT 6 KW power supply. A good solid joint resulted from the heating process. Speed and joint quality achieved the objectives of the client.

Solution

As mentioned, speed and joint quality were the two primary reasons the client was assessing induction, and induction was beneficial on both fronts. Additionally, repeatability is an advantage with induction heating as they will see the same result time after time. Induction heating also requires a minimal footprint and doesn't introduce a flame into the work environment. Finally, the expertise of THE LAB allowed the client to have peace-of-mind knowing their application would work prior to investing in induction equipment. 

If you have an application you'd like tested by THE LAB at Ambrell, contact us today to take advantage of free induction heating application testing. We'll send your parts back for inspection, along with passing along a video showing you the heating process. You can even visit us at one of our two applications labs to view the testing in-person or observe it live with our Remote Lab Service.