Which tools are necessary for soldering pipes?

For soldering pipes, the critical tools required include flux, solder, and a torch.

Flux is essential because it cleans and prepares the metal surfaces for soldering, ensuring that the joint can be made effectively by preventing oxidation. It helps the solder to flow and adhere properly to the surfaces being joined.

Solder is the filler metal that melts during the soldering process to create a strong, watertight bond between the pipes once it cools and solidifies. It's specifically designed to flow into the joint and fill any gaps, ensuring a secure connection.

The torch provides the necessary heat to melt both the solder and allow the flux to activate, making the soldering process possible. A propane torch is commonly used for this purpose as it generates sufficient heat for most standard plumbing solder tasks.

While other tools mentioned in the other options, such as a wrench or pipe cutter, can be useful in plumbing tasks, they are not specifically required for the soldering process itself. The focus on flux, solder, and a torch highlights the core components integral to successfully soldering pipes.