When mechanically cleaning, how far should the end of the tube be braided?

When preparing a tube for soldering or brazing, mechanically cleaning the end is crucial for ensuring a strong and effective joint. The recommendation to clean the tube only slightly more than the depth of the fitting socket is grounded in the need to remove surface contaminants, oxidation, or debris that could interfere with the solder's ability to adhere properly.

Cleaning just beyond the fitting socket depth ensures that the area immediately engaged with the fitting is free of impurities while preventing excessive cleaning that could lead to removal of the tube's material or accidental damage. It strikes a balance between adequate preparation and maintaining the integrity of the tube. Over-cleaning or cleaning too far down the tube might not yield any further benefit and could be an inefficient use of time.

Other choices may suggest cleaning a greater length of the tube, which, although may superficially seem thorough, does not directly contribute to the effectiveness of the joint. Thus, sticking to cleaning just past the fitting socket depth is both the efficient and proper technique.