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Soldering the seams of a countertop laminated with .030 zinc sheet metal

2005

I have a woodworking shop that builds cabinets and countertops, in wood, laminates and solid surfacing material.("Corian"). In the past we have built a few counters covered in Zinc metal, however the ones we have done did not require soldering of seams. We are currently involved with a project that requires soldering of seams of a counter we intend to laminate with .030 thick Zinc.

The zinc will be bent on a break and laminated to medium density fiber board with solvent based contact cement. The seams between the sheets will be "tight" but the architect is requiring a soldered seam. Our soldering is limited to plumbing and electrical. Can you give us some info on techniques, tools, solders to use etc. or direct me to trade publication that would educate us in this process?

George D [last name deleted for privacy by Editor]
contract woodworking - Linden, New Jersey

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2005

Did you find any methods for soldering these zinc seams? I am looking at improved methods for soldering zinc sheet metal as well (specifically new electric irons or temperature controlled soldering systems). Thanks.

Jonathan K [last name deleted for privacy by Editor]
- Urbana, Illinois

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February 27, 2008

Perhaps you could find in your local directory Pipe Organ Builders, they will have in their staff expert pipe-makers who have soldered zinc since they were born.

Hope this helps.
Best wishes,

sandy e [last name deleted for privacy by Editor]
pipe organ builder - Perth, Scotland, United Kingdom.

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September 18, 2008

I have been trying to find information about constructing a zinc countertop that is "L" shaped. It will need a soldered joint. Did you find any information about doing this?
I would really appreciate any help or advice you can give.

Deborah Wilson
- Chelsea, Michigan

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September 24, 2008

Hi, Deborah. As Sandy E noted, one possibility is you can look for help from a pipe organ builder.

I understand that you it's best to have some mechanical abrasion as you solder zinc plate, such as afforded by the old "soldering bolt" that was heated in a propane flame, then rubbed on the joint. See letters 15533 and 34726 for some more zinc soldering hints.

But if you are building a countertop, are you sure that you need to solder this joint? A good rolled joint might be more satisfactory. See letter 46075 for a sketch of a joint that an amateur with a little metal working experience could probably do.

Good luck with it.

Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey