What is the first step in the preparation for silver brazing?

The first step in preparation for silver brazing is to ensure that the pipe end is true to 90 degrees. This is crucial because an uneven or improperly prepared joint can lead to inadequate contact between the parts, which may result in weak brazing or failure of the joint. By machining the pipe end to ensure it is square, it provides a better fit, making it easier to achieve a proper joint alignment.

When the pipe ends are not true, issues such as gaps in the joint or misalignment can occur, complicating the brazing process. This misalignment can lead to inconsistent heating or improper filler metal flow, causing weak spots and ultimately compromising the integrity of the joint.

After ensuring that the ends are true, subsequent steps like removing surface oxides and checking the clearance can be performed more effectively, as a well-aligned joint is easier to work with and ensures a more reliable brazing operation.