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What is Submerged Arc Flux?
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Granular flux used in welding is a type of granular insulative materiall that is made up of numerous small particles. In Submerged Arc Welding (SAW), the granular flux provides a blanket over the weld, which protects against sparks and spatter. In SAW, the granular flux is frequently the means for achieving high deposition rates. The flux is also instrumental in producing the type of quality weld that is common in this particular welding process.
Functions of Flux in Sub Arc Welding
The effect of gravity on the flux feeding into the weld area and the molten weld pool limits the versatility of Submerged Arc Welding. This process must be performed in the flat and horizontal fillet positions only, except in special cases. These special cases include vertical and horizontal welds using special equipment, such as belts or shoes, to hold the flux in position.
The granular flux used in SAW serves several functions. In addition to providing a protective cover over the weld, the flux shields and cleans the molten puddle. The flux also affects the chemical composition of the weld metal, the weld bead shape, and the mechanical properties of the weld.
Another function of granular flux is to act as a barrier that holds the heat in and concentrates the heat into the weld area to promote deep penetration.
Types of Granular Fluxes
The methods used to manufacture fluxes determine the flux types. There are fused fluxes, bonded fluxes, agglomerated fluxes, and mechanically mixed fluxes.
When manufacturing fused fluxes, raw materials are melted into a liquid state with a high temperature electric furnace. The material is then cooled and crushed or ground into the desired particle size.
When making bonded fluxes, the ingredients are dry mixed, then glued together with a liquid binder. This binder may be a liquid such as sodium silicate. After the particles are bonded, they are baked and then sifted through a sieve to attain flux particles of the desired size.
Agglomerated fluxes are manufactured much the same way that bonded fluxes are made. However, instead of a liquid binder, a ceramic binder is used. A higher drying temperature is used, too. (The higher drying temperature limits the use of deoxidizers and alloy elements.)
Fluxes that are mechanically mixed are combinations of two or more bonded or agglomerated fluxes. Although mechanically mixed fluxes make it possible to create special mixtures for more sensitive welds, these fluxes may separate during storage, use, and recovery of flux.
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