Abstract: An apparatus sizes tubing, and positions and installs a manifold for single or multi-pass heat exchangers. Tubing is provided which has at least one first end and at least one second end. The first end is sized to a first desired perimeter dimension and, simultaneously, a first manifold is positioned and installed which has a first opening for receiving the first end of the tubing. Additionally, the second end is sized to a second desired perimeter dimension and, simultaneously, a second manifold is positioned and installed which has a second opening for receiving the second end of the tubing. A positioning control aids in the insertion of the ends into the manifolds to the desired depth or pressure. The apparatus is capable of sizing tubing, and positioning and installing manifolds for single or multi-pass heat exchangers having variously dimensioned tubing. The present invention also provides for a method of sizing tubing, and positioning and installing manifolds.

Abstract: An improved heating cycle for brazing an assembly of clad aluminum sheet components having a hypoeutectic aluminum-silicon braze alloy cladding comprises a dwell at a temperature slightly above the eutectic melting point and effective to partially melt the cladding. The dwell is accompanied by vaporization of residual magnesium from the clad alloy to getter oxygen from about the assembly and enhanced disruption of oxide film on the cladding surface, which film would otherwise interfere with capillary flow of the braze alloy into joints. The eutectic temperature dwell provides a more uniform flow of braze alloy into seams and thereby produces a strong, leak-free joint in the brazed structure.