can i solder rusted metal items together

i am going to create some small metal "sculptures" (desktop size) using old found items (nails, small metal pieces, etc.), all of which are rusted as a result of exposure to the elements. i want to be able to connect the various pieces together as a form of artistic expression. in that they are generally small items, i felt that soldering them would be the best form of adhesion but the solder i have tried does not seem to bind the pieces together. any thoughts/ ideas?

donl

Reply to
donl
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I once had some brazing rod that was *very* good on rust. But soft soldering over rust: Forget it!

Nick

Reply to
Nick Mueller

try epoxy.

i
Reply to
Ignoramus17471

Better to solder when clean and then develop a way of making the rusty patina that you want. Rusty items do not solder well, if at all. Most items to be soldered should be sanded or wire brushed bright.

Reply to
Gary Brady

On Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:10:12 -0700, "Max"

Reply to
clare at snyder.on.ca

A little flux will make a difference too.

Max

Reply to
Max

=========== This may be a good application for epoxy, Comes in colors including clear. No heat distortion/discoloration. If you like the patina you may want to matt clear urathane spray after assembly.

Unka' George ================ When we are planning for posterity, we ought to remember that virtue is not hereditary. Thomas Paine (1737-1809), Anglo-American political theorist, writer. Common Sense, ch. 4 (1776).

Reply to
F. George McDuffee

"F. George McDuffee" wrote: This may be a good application for epoxy, (clip) ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ You might even scrape a little rust of a donor part, and mix it with the epoxy, to make it blend even better.

Reply to
Leo Lichtman

That won't stick to rust, either(not much will). Read the directions sometime! Calls for clean surfaces.

Stan

Reply to
stans4

wrote: That won't stick to rust, either(not much will). Read the directions sometime! Calls for clean surfaces. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Ah, the perfect solution: Clean the surfaces; then solder, silver solder or braze. Then coat with epoxy that has some rust granules mixed in.

Reply to
Leo Lichtman

Have you tried acid cored solder?

Graham

Reply to
Graham Horne

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