The welding of steel is a challenging task for any amateur. Welding Aluminized steel is the most challenging type of weld. The difficulty lies in the fact that it has a higher carbon content, and therefore requires more heat than other steels. Aluminized steel has been used in industrial applications since the 1920s as it’s lightweight and cheap. It’s also resistant to corrosion, which makes it ideal for industrial uses like vehicles or machinery. You can use this article as a guide on how to weld aluminized steel safely.
What You Need to Know About Welding Aluminized Steel
There are many types of steel that you can weld. The most common types of steel that you will find in a welding shop are carbon steel, low alloys, stainless steel, and high alloy steels. But, the Aluminized steel welding is the most challenging type of weld. Why? It is higher in carbon content and therefore requires more heat than the other types of steel. Aluminized steel is used in industrial applications since it is lightweight and cheap. It is also resistant to corrosion, which makes it ideal for industrial uses like vehicles or machinery.
Why Need to Weld Aluminized Steel?
Aluminized steel is welded to make it more resistant to corrosion. It is commonly used in industries like ships and vehicles that experience a lot of water contact. The greater the exposure to water, the more corrosion resistant the steel becomes. The most common reason to weld aluminized steel is to increase its corrosion resistance. Aluminized steel is easy to weld and is not as expensive as high alloy steels.
Equipment for welding aluminized steel
Here are some Essential equipment for welding aluminized steel:
Gas welding machine – For arc welding. A certified gas welding machine is the most ideal choice for welding aluminized steel.
Shield – We welders use shields for the protection of our eyes. The shield should be a minimum distance of 6 feet from the source of the heat to prevent any injuries.
MIG Welding Machine – For mig welding, a mig welder is the most ideal choice as it produces a very fine mesh.
MIG Welding Cable – A mig welding cable is used to transfer the current from the welding machine to the work piece. This cable is also used to extend the distance between the machine and the work piece.
Wire Feeding Device – This device is used in a wire feed welding machine. It’s a crucial part of any welding machine.
Welding Gas – For the welding aluminized steel, you will need a gas containing welding gas. The welding gas should be pure and free from impurities.
Oxygen Regulator – The oxygen regulator should be simple and should not cause problems while welding.
Safe position while aluminized steel welding
Aluminized steel is highly susceptible to corrosion. This is because of high carbon content, which allows it to be corroded easily. So if you plan on welding this type of steel, make sure you are in a safe position. There are many positions that you can choose from while welding aluminized steel, but you should try to avoid the following ones: Standing behind the welding machine Standing immediately above the welding machine Standing above the welding machine with your head close to the welding machine
Hold your steel safely while welding
Aluminized steel is a highly corrosive type of steel. The heat produced by the welding machine is enough to damage the steel and cause it to corrode. So make sure that you don’t touch the welding work piece while welding. This is a serious safety hazard as the weld debris can cause severe injuries. It is advisable to wear goggles, a welding jacket, and gloves while welding aluminized steel.
Tips and tricks while welding aluminized steel
Before you begin, make sure that your gas regulator is free from any problems and is simple to use. This will ensure that the welding machine doesn’t get damaged. Next, make sure that you clean the work piece well and remove any dust or dirt that is stuck on the surface. This will ensure that the weld is clean and strong.
You can also use flux core to protect your aluminized steel joints. Pre-heat the steel you are going to weld and use the right welding wire. Make sure that you keep the set distance between the work piece and the welding machine while welding. This will help you to maintain a clean weld and prevent overheating. You can also use a cooling device.
