Can you solder to gold plating? Yes, it is possible to solder to gold plating. But working with gold-plated materials often requires soldering to create strong, lasting bonds. Soldering to gold plating can be tricky, but is achievable with the right techniques and preparation.

Soldering Gold-Plated Materials

Gold provides an excellent surface for soldering when done properly. The key is using the correct solder and flux specifically formulated for gold. Standard tin-lead solders and fluxes will not work well on gold plating.

The gold layer on plated materials is very thin—typically just a few microns thick. So soldering can easily damage the underlying base metal if you’re not careful.

You have to control the heat precisely during soldering. Too much heat will burn through the thin gold layer. And insufficient heat won’t allow the solder to flow and adhere correctly.

With the right soldering techniques, you can create strong, lasting bonds between gold-plated components. Let’s look at the step-by-step process.

Step 1 – Clean the Gold-Plated Surface Thoroughly

The first step is to clean the surface you’ll be soldering. Any dirt, grease, oxidation, or other contaminants will prevent the solder from adhering correctly.

Use a mild detergent or soap with warm water to scrub the gold plating. Acid-based cleaning solutions are not recommended, as they can damage the gold layer.

A soft-bristle brush can help remove stubborn contaminants from crevices or small spaces. Rinse the gold plating thoroughly with clean water after scrubbing to remove all traces of the cleaning solution.

Allow the gold plating to dry completely after rinsing. Any moisture left on the surface can create problems during soldering. A hair dryer on a low setting can help accelerate drying time if needed.

Proper cleaning is essential for successful soldering. So take the time to thoroughly clean the gold-plated area and dry it fully before moving to the next steps.

Step 2 – Select the Right Solder for Gold Plating

Standard tin-lead solders will not bond effectively to gold plating. You need a solder specifically formulated for gold.

Gold solder is available in wire, solid chip, or pre-cut preform ring shapes. The solder must match the karat of the gold plating.

For example, use 18k gold solder on 18k gold plating. If you use too low karat solder, it can dissolve the gold layer. Too high karat solder won’t flow correctly onto the lower karat gold plating.

Here are some of the most common gold solder alloys for plated materials:

8k white gold solder – For 8k yellow gold plating. Contains 33% gold, zinc, copper, and cadmium.
14k yellow gold solder – For 14k yellow gold plating. Contains 58% gold, silver, copper, and zinc.
18k yellow gold solder – For 18k yellow gold plating. Contains 75% gold, copper, and silver.
18k white gold solder – For 18k white gold plating. Contains 75% gold, nickel, zinc, and copper.

Make sure to get the exact karat match for your application. And use solder designated for gold plating, not solid gold pieces.

The thickness of the solder wire or chip should also match the thickness of the gold plating layer. Thicker solder can damage thinner plating when heated.

Step 3 – Apply a Suitable Flux to the Joint Area

Flux serves several important functions when soldering to gold plating:

It cleans the gold surface and removes oxidization.
It prevents oxidation during soldering.
It allows the solder to flow smoothly onto the gold.

Apply a small amount of flux precisely to the area you’ll be soldering. Use a flux brush or toothpick for control. Too much flux increases the chances of contaminating the joint.

For gold plating, use a flux specifically designed for gold soldering. Organic acid fluxes work well to promote solder flow without damaging the gold layer.

Avoid conventional rosin fluxes used for electronics. They are not suitable for gold plating and can leave residue. The flux packaging will indicate if it’s safe for gold soldering.

Let the flux sit for 1-2 minutes before soldering to allow it time to clean and activate the gold surface. Proper flux application is key to getting the solder to adhere correctly.

Step 4 – Heat the Joint Area Gradually and Evenly

With the right solder and flux in place, it’s time to heat the joint. Use a small micro-flame torch suitable for precision soldering work.

Avoid large torches designed for general purpose applications. The intensity of the flame must be controlled for successful gold soldering.

Heat the gold plating gradually and evenly where you want the solder to bond. If the gold layer gets too hot too quickly, it can become damaged.

Keep the torch moving slowly over the area to distribute the heat. Use a thermocouple to monitor the temperature if possible.

Heat until the gold plating reaches about 100°C above the melting point of the solder you’re using. This allows the solder to become fully molten when applied.

Heating too quickly or intensely can burn through the thin gold layer and damage the underlying base metal. Take it slow and keep the heat steady.

Step 5 – Apply the Solder and Allow It to Flow

Once the joint area reaches the target temperature, apply the solder carefully to the heated flux. Use solder wire, chips, or preforms.

The solder will quickly melt from the heat of the gold plating. Allow it to fully liquefy and flow smoothly over the joint area.

If the solder doesn’t melt or spread easily, increase the heat slightly. Insufficient heat will prevent the solder from bonding correctly.

But don’t overdo the heat, as too much intensity can still damage the gold plating. It takes practice to find the right torch angle and intensity.

Let the solder flow and settle into the joint. Use the torch flame to guide the molten solder if needed. The solder will bond readily to the heated gold plating.

Step 6 – Allow the Solder Joint to Cool Completely

Once the solder has fully flowed over the joint, turn off the torch and allow the area to cool. Do not try to accelerate cooling with water or other means.

The joint needs to cool gradually to room temperature to ensure the solder solidifies properly. Rapid cooling can weaken the solder bond.

As the solder cools, it will harden and create a permanent connection between the gold-plated components. The joint should be smooth, shiny, and free of pits or grains.

A properly soldered joint will have the same karat and appearance as the original gold plating. Reheating may be required if the solder doesn’t fully wet the joint.

Step 7 – Clean the Soldered Area to Remove Flux

After cooling, flux residue will likely remain on the soldered joint and surrounding gold plating. Clean this off to prevent contamination and corrosion.

Use a mild soap and warm water to scrub away flux residue. Avoid abrasive cleaners or brushes that could damage the gold layer.

Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry the area fully with a hair dryer or soft cloth. Inspect closely to ensure all flux has been removed.

Harsh chemical solutions can be used for final cleaning if needed. But test them first on an inconspicuous area to prevent gold plating damage.

Proper post-soldering cleaning preserves the attractive appearance of the gold plating and joint area.

Step 8 – Inspect the Joint and Make Any Needed Adjustments

Examine the soldered joint closely under good lighting. Check for gaps, pits, cracks, or incomplete bonding indicating a problem.

If needed, you can carefully reheat and apply additional solder to fill any voids and improve the joint. Use a fine soldering tip for precision work.

The joint may need light filing, sanding, or polishing to blend with the surrounding gold plating. But take care not to scrub through the thin gold layer.

Any heat discoloration on the gold plating around the joint can also be removed with gentle polishing. Avoid solutions containing chlorine, bleach, or other harsh chemicals.

With practice, you’ll be able to create smooth, lasting soldered joints on gold plating. Take your time and follow the proper soldering procedures.

Choosing the Right Soldering Tools

Having the proper soldering tools is essential for success working with gold plating:

Micro-flame torch – A pencil-tip torch gives the control needed to heat gold plating gradually without overheating. Butane and propane torches with interchangeable tips work well.
Soldering pick – A fine-tipped pick allows you to position and apply solder accurately to small joint areas.
Flux brush – For applying flux precisely before soldering. Get quality sable or camel hair brushes.
Gold solder – Use wire, chippings, or preforms in the proper karat for the gold plating, as previously covered.
Flux – An organic, non-corrosive flux designed specifically for gold soldering.
Magnifying lens – A magnifying glass or visor helps inspect joints and do precision work. Get at least 10x magnification.
Polishing supplies – Such as very fine sandpaper, gold polishing solutions, and anti-tarnish cloths for post-soldering work.

The right tools allow maximum handling of the gold plating during all stages of soldering without causing damage.

Common Gold Plating Soldering Problems and Solutions

Despite the best preparation, you may encounter some problems when soldering gold plating:

Problem: Solder won’t adhere to gold plating.

Solution: Insufficient heat on the joint, or contamination on the gold surface are likely causes. Clean again and reheat the joint slowly to the proper temperature before reapplying solder.

Problem: Gold discolors or melts during soldering.

Solution: The gold plating got too hot. Use lower torch intensity and move the flame continuously to disperse heat.

Problem: Solder flows onto surrounding areas.

Solution: Use less solder and flux. Heat just the immediate joint area so solder won’t spread.

Problem: Joint appears grainy or dull.

Solution: The solder didn’t fully melt and flow. Increase heat slightly and reapply solder to get it to wet properly.

Problem: Solder beads up and won’t spread evenly.

Solution: Surface contamination is preventing wetting. Clean again and reapply flux before heating and re-soldering.

With practice, you’ll learn how to prevent and correct any issues when soldering gold plating. Take notes on what went wrong each time to improve your technique.

Advanced Techniques for Challenging Gold Plating Joints

Some gold plating applications present unique soldering challenges:

Very Small Joints – Use fine solder wire, a needle-point flux applicator, and micro-flame torch. Magnification helps. Heat evenly and let solder flow into joint.

Odd Angles – Shape solder preforms to match joint shape. Use gravity or soldering pick to guide solder. Reheat from all angles to ensure even flow.

Thick Gold Plating – Go slowly and heat thoroughly through the thickness before applying solder. Use medium or thick solder wire to match.

Nearby Heat-Sensitive Components – Use a soldering heat shield, or chill sensitive areas with a damp cloth. Be ready to remove torch immediately after solder flows.

Limited Access – Use a 90 degree micro-torch for better visibility and angle. Bend solder wire or file preforms to fit into tight spaces.

Don’t be afraid to tackle challenging gold plating joints. With creativity and patience, you can adapt your technique for any soldering scenario.

Maintaining High-Quality Gold Plating Solder Joints

To keep your finished solder joints looking pristine:

Gently clean with anti-tarnish cloths designed for gold. Avoid abrasives or harsh chemicals.
Apply clear lacquer or sealant to protect from wear and prevent tarnishing. Test compatibility first.
Store finished pieces in anti-tarnish bags when not being used or displayed.
Avoid exposing to water, harsh chemicals, or contamination which could compromise joints.
Use care when handling gold-soldered pieces to prevent mechanical damage and weakening of bonds.

Properly maintained gold solder joints will last indefinitely and retain their attractive appearance. With reasonable care, they do not require re-soldering or servicing.

Achieving Beautiful Results Soldering Gold Plating

Soldering gold plating requires the right materials, preparation, and techniques. But the results are worth it. Well-executed gold solder joints are elegant and durable.

With practice, you’ll be able to create gold-to-gold connections as strong and lovely as the original plating. Use these advanced methods for jewelry repair, electronics fabrication, and working with other gold-plated metals.

Understand the unique properties and demands of the gold plating material. Allow time for careful cleaning, fluxing, and controlled heating. Select compatible solder alloys and fluxes.

Follow the procedures outlined here, and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful, lasting soldered joints on your gold-plated pieces. So get your torch warmed up, and let’s start soldering!

References

Rio Grande Jewelry Making Supplies. “Gold Soldering.” https://www.riogrande.com/article?name=gold-soldering
Ganoksin Jewelry Making Articles. “Soldering to Gold Plated Materials.” https://www.ganoksin.com/article/soldering-to-gold-plated-materials/
Goldsmiths UK. “Guide to Soldering Gold.” https://thegoldsmiths.co.uk/blog/guide-to-soldering-gold/
Hoover & Strong. “Gold Solder Alloys.” https://www.hooverandstrong.com/gold-solder-alloys/
Cooksongold Jewellery Making Supplies. “How to Solder Gold.” https://www.cooksongold.com/blog/how-to-guides/how-to-solder-gold