First Cut subsidiary, gas safety expert Gas Safety International (GSI), is advancing traditional industrial brazing with cutting-edge technology which enhances safety, quality and efficiency. This is Part 1 of a two-part article.
This innovative solution is game-changing for industries reliant on high-performance brazing, including the automotive, white goods, storage (racking and shelving), fabrication and engineering sectors.
Brazing is a crucial process in various manufacturing sectors, allowing for the secure joining or bonding of dissimilar (and similar) metal components: for example, copper to brass, or copper to copper. However, traditional brazing methods come with inherent risks, including gas leaks, inefficient fluxing, and safety risks due to high-pressure systems. Recognising these challenges, gas safety stalwart GSI has added its revolutionary S.A.T. regulator, valve and torch to the innovative liquid fluxing system known as the D69. The S.A.T. flux system significantly reduces gas contamination risks and enhances gas welding and brazing efficiency, optimising operational productivity.
Already, GSI has achieved extensive traction with the S.A.T. flux system in the nationwide branches of a well-known white goods manufacturer, as well as with national wheelchair and motorcycle frame manufacturers.
Commitment to safe and efficient brazing
Peter Rohlssen, Managing Director of GSI, highlights the importance of safety in brazing operations: “Our goal is simple: to make brazing safer and more efficient – without compromising performance. Traditional brazing systems are often negatively impacted by pressure-related hazards, contamination, and downtime issues. The S.A.T. flux system tackles these challenges head-on, by ensuring a safer working environment while improving productivity.”
The D69 fluxing unit enriches flammable gas (for example, acetylene) with liquid flux by passing the gas through a reservoir, where it absorbs the liquid before reaching the torch for brazing. This process enhances brazing efficiency, improves joint quality, and operates under negative pressure to increase safety by preventing backflow, reducing explosion risks.
The negative pressure approach not only minimises workplace hazards, but also ensures compliance with international safety standards, making it a preferred choice for manufacturers which prioritise worker safety and operational excellence. The system is further validated by American quality assurance institute UL (Underwriters Laboratories) approval, and its sister institute, ULC (Underwriters Laboratories Canada) – a globally recognised mark of product safety and quality assurance.
The GSI S.A.T. flux system also adheres to stringent industry compliance regulations, including ISO 2503, which governs gas pressure regulators for gas welding, cutting, and allied processes; ISO 5175-2 which governs the valve; ISO 5172, which sets standards for blowpipes used in brazing and gas welding applications; and SANS 3821, ensuring the integrity and safety of the flexible hoses used in gas applications.
Supplied by Gas Safety International (GSI).