Gas shielded welding of carbon steel and wear-resistant steel
Gas shielded welding is commonly used in the fabrication of carbon steel and wear-resistant steel. It provides a number of advantages over other welding methods, including deeper penetration capabilities and higher mechanical strength.
Carbon steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, with carbon being the main alloying element. It is used for its combination of strength, durability, and malleability. Carbon steel is often used for structural applications, such as in bridges and buildings, due to its physical properties and its resistance to corrosion.
Wear-resistant steel is used for components that require greater Hardness and increased wear resistance, such as mining and construction equipment. It is an alloy of iron, carbon, and other elements, including chromium and nickel. These element additives improve the steel’s strength, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance.
The welding process used to join both carbon steel and wear-resistant steel is generally similar. The most common forms of gas shielded welding are MIG (Metal Inert Gas) and TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas).
MIG welding is a semi-automatic process that is often used for welding thicker materials. In the MIG process, a continuous wire feeds through a welding gun, providing the current to create an electric arc. A shielding gas, usually CO₂, is fed from a liquid or gas cylinder to the welding gun. As the two pieces to be welded are positioned in contact with each other, the gas creates a shielding of the molten metal and arc.
TIG welding is also a semi-automatic process, typically used to weld thinner materials. It uses a tungsten electrode, which provides the current to create an electric arc. The shielding gas is typically argon or helium. The shielding gas flows around the tungsten electrode before it enters the welding area.
When welding carbon steel, the two most common shielding gases are CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) and Argon. Argon provides better penetration and a smoother finish, which is why it is often used for aesthetic welds. Carbon dioxide is less expensive and provides a deeper weld penetration, making it preferable for structural welds.
When welding wear-resistant steel, Argon is the preferred shielding gas because of its inert properties.
Once the chosen shielding gas is turned on and the welding gun is triggered, the weld pool is created and the welding can begin. The welder should adjust the current and the travel speed of the welding gun to suit the job, in order to ensure the correct weld profile is achieved.
When welding is complete, it is important to clean or “chip” away any slag or impurities that might be present. This is essential to ensure the integrity of the weld.
Gas shielded welding is a useful and effective process to join carbon steel and wear-resistant steel. It allows for increased weld penetration, higher mechanical strength and improved corrosion resistance. By following proper welding techniques and the suitable shielding gas, quality welds can be produced.
Conatct us
