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5520R1 - Safety-Silv 5 Phos-Copper Brazing Alloy 3/32"

Packaging: 1 of 1
$135.06/ea $130.41/1 of 1 only $130.41/eaSave 3%

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OVERVIEW

Technical Specification: Harris Safety-Silv 5 (BCuP-3)

The Harris Safety-Silv 5 (SKU: 5520R1) is a copper-phosphorus-silver brazing filler metal designed for the joining of copper and copper-alloy base metals. Formulated with 5% silver, 6% phosphorus, and a copper balance, this alloy meets the AWS A5.8 classification for BCuP-3. The inclusion of silver in the matrix significantly improves the mechanical properties of the joint, specifically ductility and fatigue resistance, compared to BCuP-2 (0% silver) alternatives. This makes it a standard specification for HVAC and refrigeration piping systems where thermal cycling and vibration are operational factors.

Thermodynamically, Safety-Silv 5 exhibits a solidus temperature of 1190°F (643°C) and a liquidus temperature of 1500°F (816°C). This 310°F melting range provides the alloy with a "plastic" or semi-solid state during heating. This characteristic is technically advantageous when dealing with loose fit-ups or non-concentric joints, as it allows the operator to manipulate the alloy to bridge gaps that free-flowing eutectic alloys (like BCuP-5) cannot manage effectively. The alloy has a specific gravity of 8.25 and an electrical conductivity of approximately 9.6% IACS.

Fluxing Requirements: Due to the phosphorus content, Safety-Silv 5 is self-fluxing on copper base metals; the phosphorus reacts with copper oxides to form a fluid slag, eliminating the need for external flux. However, when brazing brass, bronze, or other copper alloys, a reactive flux such as Stay-Silv® White or Black is required to dissolve surface oxides and ensure wetting. Warning: This alloy must never be used on ferrous metals (steel, iron) or nickel-based alloys, as the phosphorus will react with iron/nickel to form brittle intermetallic phosphides, leading to joint embrittlement and failure.

This product is supplied in a 1 lb rigid tube containing 3/32" (2.4mm) diameter rods, each 20 inches in length. The packaging ensures moisture protection and physical integrity of the rods during storage and transport.

Additional Information
Packaging Description:1 lb tube (1-lb-tube), 1 of 1
Silver Content (%):5 (5), 5
Diameter (mm):2.4mm, 2.5mm
AWS Classification:BCuP-3
Material Composition:5% Silver, 6% Phosphorus, Balance Copper
----- new values below ----
AWS Classification:BCuP-3
Material Composition:5% Silver, 6% Phosphorus, Balance Copper
Rod Length:20 inches
Solidus Temperature:1190°F (643°C)
Liquidus Temperature:1500°F (816°C)
Fluidity Rating:Medium
Diameter (mm):2.4mm
Silver Content (%):5 (5)
Packaging Description:1 lb tube (1-lb-tube)

INCLUDED

  • 1 lb Tube of Safety-Silv 5 Brazing Rods (approx. 22-24 rods)
  • Instructional Label

APPLICATIONS

  • Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC/R) piping
  • Plumbing copper pipe connections
  • Copper-to-brass equipment connections
  • Electrical conductors
  • Marine heat exchangers (copper based)

FAQ

If you are brazing copper to copper, no flux is required because the phosphorus in the rod acts as a flux. If you are brazing copper to brass or bronze, you must use a flux like Stay-Silv White.

No. Safety-Silv 5 contains phosphorus, which reacts with iron and steel to form brittle phosphides. This will cause the joint to crack and fail. Use a high-silver alloy without phosphorus (like Safety-Silv 45 or 56) for steel.

The rod begins to melt (solidus) at 1190°F and is fully liquid (liquidus) at 1500°F. The range in between allows for gap filling.

A 1 lb tube of 3/32" diameter Safety-Silv 5 typically contains approximately 22 to 24 rods, depending on slight manufacturing tolerances.

Safety-Silv 15 contains 15% silver, making it more ductile and better for high-vibration applications than the 5% silver in Safety-Silv 5. However, Safety-Silv 5 is more economical and has a wider melting range for filling gaps.

This product is classified as BCuP-3 under the American Welding Society (AWS) A5.8 specification.

Yes, Safety-Silv 5 is generally considered safe for potable water systems, but local codes should always be verified. It is cadmium-free.

Oxy-Acetylene is the most common and efficient method. Oxy-Propane or air-acetylene (TurboTorch) can also be used, though heating times will be longer.

CATALOGUE & SPEC SHEETS

Spec Sheet