For centuries the two most common methods of joining metal tubes and fittings have been brazing and soldering. These tried-and-true methods are in a number of ways similar, yet there are also several distinct differences that set them apart. Solder often uses tin and silver filler materials, while brazing often uses filler metals and alloys such as silver, copper, and zinc.

In 2021, 47.7 million troy ounces (Moz) of silver went to solder and brazing alloy markets, according World Silver Survey 2022. According to Precious Metals Commodity Management, that demand is forecast to grow 23% to 58.8 Moz by 2030. This represents a 2% annual compound growth rate (CAGR) for this segment. This forecasted rise in demand is based on projected global infrasturcture growth, including increasing plumbing and pipe joining, strong vehicle demand (both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicles (EV). Additionally, demand is projected to increase for the electronics market, including light-emitting diodes (LED), printed circuit boards, air heating ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. With it, the demand for silver in these brazing and solder alloy markets will also expand.