My other hobby is small metal art.

I’m using a jeweler’s torch oxy acetylene and working on small steel rod - from 1/16” to 1/8”. This is the rod from welding stores that is steel with a bright copper looking coating.

For flux I’m using stay-silv, with safety-silv 1/16” brazing alloy.

What is the best way to clean off the flux w/o damaging the piece right by the joint? Once that is clean, do I need to paint or clear coat the joint to keep it from rusting or is the joint good to go?

Link to something I made years ago, I’m just now getting back into it:

That doesn’t work for the home hobbyist. Hopefully, someone with experience doing this stuff is on here and can add input.

Yup. Had that same thought. Got busy at work.

Got some good info from that article, where it said if the flux turns black the metal was too hot. Good to know.

I’m totally self taught, so my knowledge can be lacking. Back when I first got into it, I asked a lot of questions at the welding supply shop, but those folks are sales, not welders. And so far I haven’t found anyone working on teensy joints on steel. The folks doing real small stuff are jewelers working on silver and gold.

Could back down a notch and use nonelectrical solder, but I think brazing is stronger. And there is still flux in the solder.

Hum… maybe there's a jewelry class I could take that works with steel… you see steel rings for sale out at the art festivals.