This document details a classification of imperfections that can occur in brazing joints. In addition, guidance is provided on quality levels and suggested limits for imperfections are detailed.

For requirements not covered by this document, reference can be made to other sources, such as statutory regulations, codes of practice and technical delivery conditions.

No information is given on how imperfections are to be assessed in individual cases because this depends on the requirements for the particular brazed joint. These imperfections are not always detectable by the use of non-destructive testing alone.

This document covers only imperfections that can occur in connection with brazing without the effect of any additional service loads. Only the type, shape and position of such imperfections are covered; no indication is given of the conditions of occurrence or causes.

For requirements for brazed joints which are relevant and essential to the particular function of the component, reference can be made to the relevant documentation, for example manufacturing documents or procedure sheets.

It is important that these requirements be precisely prescribed and that conformity with them be verifiable. Conformity can be established by testing either the brazed assembly itself or a test piece produced under comparable conditions.

This document does not specify requirements for acceptance levels for imperfections, since these will differ very markedly depending on the application, but it does suggest some quality levels which can be of value in the absence of more detailed information.

For the purposes of this document, the areas of a brazed assembly are designated as shown schematically in Figure 1.