As a beginner blacksmith, learning about the different materials and tools you need can be overwhelming. One of the important materials you’ll need to familiarize yourself with is flux. Flux is a substance that helps protect your metal from oxidation and contamination during the heating process. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to flux for beginner blacksmiths.
What is Flux?
Flux is a substance that is used in blacksmithing to prevent oxidation and contamination of metal during the heating process. When metal is heated, it can become contaminated by impurities and oxygen from the air. Flux helps prevent this by forming a protective layer on the metal, which helps to prevent contamination and oxidation.
Types of Flux
There are several different types of flux that are commonly used in blacksmithing. Some of the most popular types include:
- Borax: Borax is a common flux that is easy to find and use. It is typically mixed with water to create a paste that can be applied to the metal before heating.
- Anhydrous Borax: Anhydrous borax is a powdered form of borax that is typically used for welding and brazing. It is often used in combination with other fluxes to create a more effective protective layer on the metal.
- Silica: Silica is another common flux that is often used in combination with borax. It is typically used for welding and brazing, and can be mixed with borax to create a more effective protective layer on the metal.
- Iron Oxide: Iron oxide is a flux that is typically used for welding and brazing. It is often used in combination with other fluxes to create a more effective protective layer on the metal.
How to Use Flux
Using flux is a simple process that requires only a few steps:
- Apply the flux to the metal before heating.
- Heat the metal until it reaches the desired temperature.
- Watch for the flux to melt and form a protective layer on the metal.
- Continue heating the metal until it is ready to be worked.
Comparison of Flux Types
| Flux Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Borax | Easy to find and use, effective for most applications | Can cause pitting in some metals |
| Anhydrous Borax | More effective than regular borax, good for welding and brazing | Can be difficult to find |
| Silica | Effective in combination with borax, good for welding and brazing | Can be expensive |
| Iron Oxide | Effective in combination with other fluxes, good for welding and brazing | Can be difficult to find |
Conclusion
Flux is an essential material for blacksmiths, as it helps to protect metal from oxidation and contamination during the heating process. There are several different types of flux available, each with its own set of pros and cons. As a beginner blacksmith, it is important to familiarize yourself with the different types of flux and choose the one that is best for your needs. By using flux properly, you can help protect your metal and create beautiful works of art.