If you are planning on a hard surfacing project, you want the best possible outcome in the least amount of time. This helps you continue with your work with limited downtime. This is why you may want to consider tungsten carbide rods and oxyacetylene welding. Here is more about this strategy.
What is Oxyacetylene Welding?
Oxy welding uses acetylene as the fuel source, as it mixes with oxygen. This creates a flame hot enough to melt both rod and base metal, producing an extremely strong bond. In this method, propane or natural gas is sometimes used instead of acetylene. Welding is done with a torch and oxy welding is a cost effective way to weld, heat, straighten, bend and braze.
Carbide
When you use tungsten carbide rods for welding you have some of the hardest materials available. These rods are created by mixing carbon (C) with tungsten (W) to get tungsten carbide (WC). WC is superior to most steel alloys because it is harder and stiffer. In fact, it can increase wear resistance a great deal. It is commonly used for hardfacing earth moving and excavating equipment and many kinds of heavy duty machines. In addition to longer wear, carbide is very resistant to corrosion, unlike steel.
Oxy Welding for Hard Surfacing
Oxy welding is one of the most commonly used methods for repair welding. It works well for a wide range of items including steel pipe. During the process, the welder has precise control over the welding at all times. It’s also possible to heat treat steel or iron by lowering the flame. This is called carburization.
Hardfacing Tips
Surface preparation is vital, as it must be very clean. Also, it’s important to maintain heat levels during welding. It is also very important to use flux before welding with tungsten carbide rods.
