An alloy that comprises iron and carbon as its main components is known as stainless steel. The welding process of stainless steel differs from the welding of other components because of its chemical composition. It comprises 10.5% chromium content which makes it corrosion-resistant. Shalco Industries supply stainless steel in different formats, such as stainless steel plates, bars, welding rods, tubes, etc.
Welding stainless steel
The three main categories of stainless steel include the following
- Austenitic stainless steel grade
- Martensitic stainless steel grade
- Ferritic stainless steel grade
Each of the categories of stainless steel is categorized on the basis of its microstructure, which influences its strength and ductility. The microstructure of stainless steel depends greatly on its chemical makeup. For instance, austenitic stainless steel grade contains 8% to 22% nickel content, and 16% to 26% chromium content. On the other hand, Martensitic stainless steel blade has 12% to 18% chromium content. The third stainless steel grade, known as ferritic steel, has 10% to 30% chromium in its chemical composition. Shalco Industries is a stainless steel supplier where you can get a wide deal of stainless steel products.
Why welding stainless steel is a tricky process?
Welding stainless steel is a more complicated process than welding carbon steel. This is because stainless steel retains heat effectively, which causes warping when exposed to high temperatures during welding. This makes the steel crack or warp at the time of the cooling process after the welder has heated it. Every stainless steel grade comes with unique challenges for welders. For instance, austenitic stainless steel tends to crack up when exposed to high temperatures. Martensitic stainless steel can crack if you do not preheat it properly. Ferritic steel loses its strength unless it is heated with a low heat input.
Also Read : https://shalco.com/blog/why-stainless-steel-is-used-in-the-chemical-industry/
What are the equipment and materials required for welding stainless steel?
Different ways to weld stainless steel provides a different outcome and includes a different process. The shielded metal arc welding process creates a reliable and solid weld using stainless steel. It is a good choice if you are going to weld thick material. On the other hand, the gas tungsten arc welding method will be the right choice if you are working with thin materials and for welds that require precision and beauty. This method requires sufficient time and experience. An inexperienced welder will, unfortunately, cause blemishes or marks on SS welding rod. At the time of the stainless steel welding process, you must check the temperature to eliminate performance issues, so you need to have a temperature tracking device. Other tools required are electronic infrared thermometer, electronic surface temperature probe, shielding gas, brush for cleaning, metal scrapping, etc.
Preparation to weld stainless steel
When welding stainless steel, you can use a metal brush to eliminate oil, dirt, dust, water, or grease from the workstation. You can prevent cracking or warping of the stainless steel by clamping copper or brass space behind the welding area. This will help absorb the heat and keep the stainless steel cool. Even though the stainless steel welding process is complicated, using the right tool and equipment, getting the right filler material, and managing the temperature appropriately will help produce a durable and strong weld.
Which welding method is best for stainless steel?
It is significant to choose the best welding method for your stainless steel. The type of welding process will depend on the outcome that you want to achieve in your final product. For example, if you want an affordable weld, then Spot welding will be right for you. However, if you are working with thin material, gas tungsten arc welding or TIG welding is the right choice.