Stuller understands your need for variety by offering a comprehensive selection of laser wire, including exclusive options such as 14kt and 18kt yellow zinc-free wire and also Continuum™ Sterling Silver. John our resident laser expert has offered some tips to keep in mind while working with these products:

"When adding wire with a laser welder, everyone has come across the wire that explodes or splatters under the intense heat of the laser beam. This often happens when using spot welders which makes adding wire difficult and can cause pits and cracks in the weld area. The following is a review of the different alloys better suited for spot welding."

  • 14/18kt Palladium Wire - This is the first formula to come out that was better suited for laser welding. The addition of palladium instead of nickel stops the splatter and causes the metal to flow more smoothly. Hitting the end of the wire causes it to make a ball that can be used for prongs. This wire also reduces the small cracks that can form in white gold after it has been laser welded. Our newest formula of the palladium wire is even easier to use than before.
  • 14/18kt Zinc-Free Wire - Zinc is used in most gold alloys to stop the metal from oxidizing and turning pink when melted. Zinc has a very low melting point and vaporizes, causing splatters and porosity. This new alloy removes the zinc and is much more laser-friendly while still retaining its gold color.
  • Silver Weld Hard Wire - If you use sterling wire as filler, the welds may become brittle. I use silver weld hard wire to make sure this doesn't happen. This wire is a solder and contains about 75% silver. While the wire is not perfect color match, it can still be polished to match the surrounding area.
  • Eyeglass Frame Wire - Use this wire as a solder on costume jewelry that turn into trouble pieces. If you are having a particular hard time with welding, throw in some 14kt palladium wire. The 14PW also helps with eyeglass frames that give you trouble.

John