Harris Solder Kit SB861 & SCPF4 - Stay-Brite #8 Silver Bearing Solder with Flux

Good product

I love this Harris solder for HVAC applications. You can solder fittings at lower temperature without needing to run a nitrogen purge during brazing (brazing requires a nitrogen blanket to avoid heavy oxidation residue inside your piping). The only argument I have heard against this solder is that the flux leaves acid residue inside the piping. This can be avoided using a proper soldering technique ... sand/brush copper clean, fit together, heat, apply flux AFTER heating (this causes it to be wicked into the joint as necessary), then apply solder.

When you need to get things done, this is the brand and product line that you count on for durability and sustained performance, at maintaining the joint bond especially at a consistent heat level. With ease of clean up, and appropriately sized package containers, this is truly a value for money purchase.

Flows very nicely

Great flux and solder. I used it to install a new central split and had no leaks during a 500psi pressure test & 300 micron vacuum for 1 hour.One thing I had to do was cut off one of the swaged ends and expand it myself. The bell was just a tad loose and the StaBrite didn't want to fill it. I made a new bell that was a tight fit and the joint looked much better. It was probably ok, but I didn't want to risk having to do it again when it was inconvenient.This is good stuff and I highly recommend it. Adhere to good practices (scuff, tight fit, and don't overheat) and it works great for HVAC work. Easier than brazing and I trust having the larger bonding surface of solder more than the narrow bonding surface of brazing.

Have used product on two (R410) condenser applications. First one was new unit connecting to existing lines which had been bent. Cross section of lines were not perfectly round even after attempted dressing. Found any fitting that has clearance anywhere along the circumference WILL leak. The product on a proper snug fitting wicks in perfectly. A larger clearance only lets the solder flow through the clearance. It will NOT build up or work as filler. The next project with new round lines properly dressed where the fitting snuggly fits solders as easy as sweating the lead solder of fifty years ago. If a fitting has any side movement (wiggle), this is not your product.Best advantage: when using a map gas/air torch, the flame is not hot enough to melt a hole in your pipe in fittings. Besides not having to invert and purge your piping.

I got several quotes on replacing my 3.5 ton split unit hvac and quoted prices around $12k. Did everything myself, and even used this solder and flux and mapp gas to braze the new unit in. I did it for less than $6k and it took me a week. I took my time and installed the unit, and brazed like a pro. Joints look awesome and no leaks on first try. Would recommend this install of buying solderless fittings (way more expensive) and hiring a hvac guy. Good experience and just something else to add to your lfe experiences.

Good value, delivered quickly.