What does capillary action allow in the silver brazing process?

Capillary action is a critical phenomenon in silver brazing, as it allows the filler metal to be drawn into the joint between the base metals. This process relies on the narrow spacing between the surfaces to be joined, which creates a scenario where the molten filler metal can flow and fill these gaps without the need for excessive pressure.

As the workpieces are heated to the appropriate brazing temperature, the viscosity of the filler metal decreases, enabling it to flow into the joint through capillary action. This ensures a good fit and intimate contact between the filler metal and the base metals, which is essential for creating a strong, reliable bond once the assembly cools down. The effectiveness of this action significantly influences the quality of the brazed joint, making it a key aspect of the silver brazing process.