Why is the melting point of solder lower than Lead or Tin.
Why is the melting point of solder lower than Lead or Tin.
(OP)
I would like to know why solder has a lower melting temperature than the lowest melting temperature of either alloy Lead and Tin, also are there any other alloy combinations that exhibit these characteristics.





RE: Why is the melting point of solder lower than Lead or Tin.
hth,
chris
RE: Why is the melting point of solder lower than Lead or Tin.
Basically the alloy of tin and lead is not crystalline in structure, unlike most pure metals (and many alloys). This has the effect of lowering the melting point because the atoms can execute a phase change much more easily when not bound into a lattice structure. Also once the molten solder comes into contact with certain other metals (notably copper), chemical reactions begin that speed the flow of solder.
Good luck, and watch those cold solder joints.
Bryan Carter.
RE: Why is the melting point of solder lower than Lead or Tin.
A low MP alloy of lead, tin, and bismuth is used to control water sprinklers in certain fire-extinguishing systems.
RE: Why is the melting point of solder lower than Lead or Tin.
http://www.sv.vt.edu/classes/MSE2094_NoteBook/96ClassPr...
RE: Why is the melting point of solder lower than Lead or Tin.