would a Jumbo Max torch be able to ball 1.5mm Sterling silver wire please??

[debsfoord]

Hi there , never used a torch before and wanting to use one to ball up the ends of 1.5mm Sterling silver wire and general soldering for jewellery, Would this be a good choice please? thanks so much!

[Dennis]

Hi,
If you have already bought it, I would suggest you try, as it is not a common make. If not, the subject of hand torches was discussed quite recently here, and all those mentioned should do it: http://www.cooksongold.com/forum/hot...ch-advice.html.

I would also suggest you put balling in the search box above to find out more. You will also need flux and pickle. Work over a roasting tin and stay safe. Dennis.

[mizgeorge]

The jumbo max (I presume you mean the one Palmers sell) is not a great choice for soldering, though it will ball up wire nicely. It's also a good annealing torch. It has a large, very bushy flame, and very little accuracy. For general soldering, a microtorch of this type http://www.maplin.co.uk/pt-200-blow-torch-35518?C=14881 is a good place to start.

I'd add to Dennis' excellent advice and mention that sterling, at that size, will almost inevitably pit when you ball the ends. Unless you want an organic look, you may want to consider argentium or reflections silver instead.

[debsfoord]

Cheers Guys x