This guide establishes the requirements and test methods for liquid and paste fluxes for joining by soldering of copper and copper alloy tube and fittings in plumbing, heating, air conditioning, mechanical, fire sprinkler, and other similar systems. There shall be a clear indication that in the areas of flux reaction, the sheets shall show a corrosion and residue-free surface comparable with the unwetted areas as determined by visual inspection. Samples of flux taken for the purpose of the tests listed in this specification shall be selected from the stock of the manufacturer and shall be representative of the material being evaluated. The specimen shall undergo the spreading test wherein the oven shall be equipped with a sight glass for visible control of the melting of the solder. The specimen shall then pass the aggressiveness test wherein the aggressiveness of the flux is determined by means of a resistivity test of an aqueous solution of the flux residue. The conductivity cell to be used shall be kept immersed in distilled water at ambient temperature for a given minimum number of hours before use. Resistivity tests shall be performed for both soldered and unsoldered specimen. The specimen shall then undergo corrosive test by being dipped onto ethanol.

1.1 This specification covers the requirements and test methods for liquid and paste fluxes for joining by soldering of copper and copper alloy tube and fittings in plumbing, heating, air conditioning, mechanical, fire sprinkler, and other similar systems.

Note 1: This specification does not apply to fluxes intended for electronic applications.

1.2 Solder fluxes are to be tested in accordance with the requirements of this specification by an independent testing laboratory. Testing, measuring equipment, and inspection facilities shall be of sufficient accuracy and quality to comply with the requirements of this specification.

1.3 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 The following hazard caveat pertains to Sections 11 – 19. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.