How to Clean Your Vermiculite Soldering Board/Block
A discoloured fire brick before cleaning
What is a soldering block, and what is it used for?
A soldering block is a heat-resistant brick (or board) that is made from a substance called vermiculite. The block can withstand temperatures over 1,000 degrees celsius (2,000 degrees Fahrenheit) meaning that when heat is applied with a blow torch it provides a safe, stable and inert surface that is ideal for soldering, annealing, and torch firing silver clay.
A silver ring stuck to a dirty soldering block after heating
How do I know if my Soldering Board needs cleaning?
If you notice that your bricks have become discoloured or covered in flux, if pieces are beginning to stick to them after soldering, or that the surface has become pitted and uneven preventing your jewellery elements from sitting evenly on the surface, it may be time to clean your boards.
How to Clean a Fire Brick in 3 easy steps
Find a flat surface outside like a paving slab or a concrete step
Place the Fire Brick face down and begin “sanding” it in circular motions. Keep checking and sanding until the imperfections are removed and its surface is restored (Because a Fire Brick is relatively soft the process will be quick and easy!)
Remove any excess dust with a soft brush, and voilà, your soldering blocks are as good as new!
A Note on Safety
While modern vermiculite no longer contains asbestos or ceramic and it is generally believed that the dust isn’t harmful, only you know what other contaminates may be on your fire brick, so it’s always advisable to take appropriate precautions when creating dust such as working outside and wearing a mask and gloves when necessary.
A soldering block after cleaning
Where to buy a Soldering Block?
If you’re just getting started with jewellery making or your soldering blocks have really seen better days you can shop for all your soldering needs using the link below:
