How should brazed cast fittings be cooled?

Brazed cast fittings should be cooled slowly to avoid cracking due to thermal shock. When metal components are heated to high temperatures during the brazing process, they expand. A rapid cooling process, such as quickly plunging them into cold water or exposing them to high-velocity air, can lead to uneven contraction and create stress within the material. This stress can result in cracking or warping of the fittings, which compromises their integrity and functionality.

Cooling at room temperature is generally a safer alternative but is not specifically focused on the controlled approach needed to ensure the fitting retains its strength and structure post-brazing. Therefore, the preferred method of cooling slowly allows the material to contract evenly and reduces the risk of defects resulting from rapid cooling techniques.