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  Solder describes any of a variety of metal alloys formulated to join together other metal objects. Silver-alloy solders are used in multiple industries on many different objects. Whether you are an artist, an engineer or an electronic specialist, knowledge of the various types of silver-alloy solders will be a valuable addition to your mental toolbox.

Cadmium-Silver Solder

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  Cadmium-silver solder is used in high-temperature soldering in projects such as jewelry making and metal fabrication. Cadmium-silver solder provides a leak proof bond with high tensile strength, which means it requires greater strength to break than other solders approved for use in the same temperature range. The bond created by using cadmium-silver solder withstand tensile stress and vibration at both extremely high and sub-zero temperatures. Because this type of solder is toxic, appropriate safety measures should be used. Work in a well-ventilated area with an exhaust hood to draw any toxic smoke away from your face. To protect yourself further, wear a breathing mask to filter the air you breathe in. Additionally, cadmium-silver solder should not be used on items used for food or drink consumption. If the fumes or solder are inhaled or ingested, illness and lung damage may occur.

Lead-Silver Solder

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  Like cadmium-silver solder, lead-silver solder is used in high-temperature soldering. This type of solder provides a bond with high fatigue strength, meaning it can withstand repetitions of stressful impacts without breaking. Lead-silver solder is often available at craft and specialty stores for use in stained glass and jewelry projects. Lead-silver solder is toxic, like cadmium-silver solder, producing fumes that are harmful if inhaled. It should also be used in a well-ventilated area with an exhaust hood and breathing mask.

Tin-Silver Solder

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  Tin-silver solder shares the property of being useful at high temperatures with its cadmium-silver and lead-silver counterparts. Unlike the other alloys, however, tin-silver solder is non-toxic and therefore poses less of a health risk in using it, making it frequently used as an alternative to lead-silver solder. Tin-silver solder is also used as an alternative to tin-lead solders, which do not provide as strong a bond at high temperatures. This solder type is typically used with high-precision instruments and is more expensive than other types of solder.