Tinning flux worth it or not.

[Bogart]

Seen a few videos where they used tinning flux. Seems to do the job better, to my eyes. Is it worth the extra expense?

 

[Last Plumber]

For what purpose?
If it is soldering joints, I wouldn't bother.

 

[ShaunCorbs]

Not wras approved for drinking water as you will find it’s leaded

 

[Bogart]

Never knew was leaded. Just wondered if much better than normal flux. Will stick with my Laco for the few joints I do.

 

[Ric2013]

The Oatey 95 one isn't leaded. Not sure if it's WRAS approved.

Putting aside WRAS as I'm currently abroad where WRAS doesn't apply anyway, Oatey claims it's okay for drinking water and the ingredients in it would seem to either flush out on commissioning or be suitable for the potable pipework. Though I have to agree with Last Plumber that for general use I don't see the need.

If you don't like Laco and want something that is slightly more tolerant of a bit of residual water in the pipework, Fluxite (thick and greasy) is 'the most effective flux known' and seems to be non-corrosive. I personally prefer it to Laco. Templar's Telux may be similar to Fluxite but I've yet to experiment with it.

 

[Bogart]

Duly noted. Why do you prefer to Laco can I ask?

 

[Ric2013]

Duly noted. Why do you prefer to Laco can I ask?

When working on existing heating systems, when I'm fluxed and soldering, the smallest drip of water and it's the joint ruined. Also, I once tried leaving 3 types of flux on a copper pipe for several days. Everflux and Laco turned the pipe green. Fluxite just sat there. That said, I suspect Laco probably washes out more easily once you're done soldering and are flushing, whereas Fluxite probably needs hot water.