Nomenclature and Components of Butt and Fillet Welds

Welding, a fundamental process in metal fabrication and construction, involves joining metal components through the application of heat and pressure. Two common types of welds, butt and fillet welds, are integral in creating strong, durable joints. Understanding nomenclature and components of Butt and Fillet Welds is crucial for welders and engineers to ensure the integrity […]

Cellulosic vs Rutile Electrodes – Which One to Choose?

“Varieties of Electrodes and Their Constituents” There is a wide array of manual metal arc (MMA) electrodes available, grouped into three categories based on their primary flux component: cellulosic, rutile, and basic. These electrodes typically consist of a core wire, usually 2.5–6mm in diameter, coated with flux. The core wire is commonly crafted from low-quality

Practical Guide to Preventing Porosity in Aluminium Welds

Porosity formation within aluminium welding arises from the entrapment of gases in the molten weld pool, unable to escape before solidification. The chief concern is hydrogen, sourced from contaminants like hydrocarbons (e.g., grease, skin oils) or moisture, breaking down within the arc plasma to generate atomic hydrogen. Hydrogen readily dissolves in molten aluminium but exhibits

What is GMAW (MIG/MAG)? Complete Welding Guide

Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), commonly known as MIG (Metal Inert Gas) or MAG (Metal Active Gas) welding, is a versatile and widely used welding process in which an electric arc is established between a consumable wire electrode and the workpiece metal. This arc generates intense heat, causing the workpiece metal to melt and fuse

Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW): The Complete Guide

Introduction Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), commonly known as stick welding, is a pivotal manual arc welding process. It employs a consumable electrode enveloped in a flux to fuse metals together. Renowned for its versatility and simplicity, SMAW has earned its place as one of the most widely used welding techniques globally. This comprehensive guide

Guide to Dye Penetrant Testing (DPT) in Welding & NDT

In the world of non-destructive testing (NDT), dye penetrant testing is a widely employed method for detecting surface-breaking defects in various materials, including metals, plastics, and ceramics. This technique, often referred to as liquid penetrant inspection or simply penetrant testing, plays a crucial role in ensuring the structural integrity and safety of a wide range

Hydrogen Cracking in Steel Welding – Explained for Engineers

Hydrogen cracking, also known as hydrogen-induced cracking or HIC, is a common concern in various industries, particularly in the field of metalworking, welding, and construction. This phenomenon occurs when hydrogen atoms infiltrate the microstructure of a metal, causing it to become brittle and prone to cracking. Understanding the common causes and effective cures for hydrogen

Tungsten Electrodes For TIG (with Color Chart)

Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding, also known as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), is a highly precise and versatile welding process used in various industries. One of the key components in TIG welding is the tungsten electrode. These electrodes come in various types, each designed for specific applications and materials. In this article, we will

Why Hot Cracking Occurs in Welds and How to Prevent It

Hot cracking is a metallurgical phenomenon that often occurs during welding and casting processes, leading to structural defects and compromised material integrity. Understanding hot cracking and its causes is crucial for engineers, welders, and anyone involved in the fabrication of metal components. In this blog, we will delve into the world of hot cracking weld

Understanding Sensitization – Stainless Steel Corrosion Challenge

Sensitization is a phenomenon that can occur in stainless steel. It is a critical concept that needs to be understood as it can adversely affect the performance of stainless steel. This causes the steel or alloy to become susceptible to intergranular corrosion or intergranular stress corrosion cracking (SCC). What are stainless steels? Stainless steels are