Anybody used "Solar B" flux for stainless steel TIG welding.

[roger64racing]

I've seen a few videos on the web about this product which is placed (spread as a paste) on the rear of the item to be welded without the need for inert purging which prevents the rear from oxidizing, just wondered if anyone has used it and what results had? Thank's

 

[hotrodder]

It does what it says on the tin, prevents the root side from oxidising (coking/sugaring) but leaves a hard, tenacious residue behind which may be a huge deal or nothing to worry about depending on the part...
While it looks easy/convenient/fast* in demos on little weld coupons personally i think it's a relative messy PITA in the real world most of the time compared with knocking up temporary purging dams etc. Very occasionally it's handy stuff to have around

* could have purged that coupon (home made fixture or improvised tent on the back with baking foil and tape etc) and finished welding before the muppet had finished mixing the stuff

 

[Maker]

@TIG Paul, didn't you say once before that it's more trouble than it's worth and it takes a lot of getting used to?

 

[backpurge]

It's OK as a last resort if you can't get a gas purge on the back, otherwise it's generally messy, expensive and the results aren't always that good

 

[roger64racing]

Somebody is making a big mark up to, it costs about £100 over here for a tin were as in the states it looks like you can get it for about $50 (35 quid or so). For the time being I'll stick to back purging. Thank's all.

 

[BrokenBiker]

I would have thought it would hve pulled it through into the puddle. Video was interesting but I think I would prefer purging