Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) is a process that produces the coalescence of metals by heating them with an arc between a solid metal wire electrode and the work piece. The electric arc and the weld puddle are submerged under a layer of granular fusible flux on the work, hence its name of submerged arc welding. On this process the filler metal is obtained from a wire electrode and from a supplemental source such as metal granules.

Depending on the type of flux, it may play different roles. It helps stabilize the arc; it provides mechanical and chemical properties to the final deposited weld and protects the weld puddle from contamination.

On this process since the arc is completely covered by the flux, it is not visible and the weld is made without the flash, spatter and sparks that characterize the open arc processes. The nature of this process reduces considerably the amount of visible smoke and fumes released to the air. Even though this process is considered a “clean process” as far as spatter and fumes, it is necessary to remove the slag generated during the process.

Typically this process is fully mechanized having either the welding gun move along the weld joint or the work piece move to achieve the weld. Often semiautomatic process is utilized having the welder move the welding gun manually along the weld joint.

SAW has advantages and disadvantages over the rest of the well know or most common process.

Advantages:

  • This process can achieve weld beads of excellent quality and appearance.
  • Is a process one of the best options for welding very thick materials.
  • The SAW process is one of the fastest processes available.
  • The flux protects the welds from external contamination.
  • The process can be used with more than one wire electrode; this and the high currents that can be used allow more weld deposited in less time and with more penetration.

Disadvantages:

  • This process cannot be used in all positions because of the granular flux.
  • An inadequate manipulation of the flux can contaminate the welds and generate defects.
  • The high heat generated during the process can generate excessive distortion of the welded parts.
  • The slag generated during the welding process has to be chipped of the weld.
  • When welding multiple passes it is necessary to clean the welds thoroughly to eliminate slag inclusions.

If you have an project that needs welding in Perth, you can contact the Arktek Industries welding shop for details or you can visit their website –  visit website, to learn more about the company and what they do.