Welding aid for spatter reduction
A spatter-reducing agent is a surface-active compound that stabilizes the arc and reduces spatter.
Physical-Chemical Mechanism of Action
The anti-spatter agent for welding acts on the surface of the material to be welded. It stabilizes the droplets in the arc by increasing their fluidity and reducing their surface tension. This prevents the droplets from suddenly breaking up into spatter.
Metallurgical Relevance & Welding Risks
Reducing weld spatter improves control over the welding process. It lowers the risk of unwanted distortion and hardness variations in the weld. Spatter can lead to uneven heat distribution, which may cause hot cracks or zinc penetration.
Workshop Practice & Instructions
Use the anti-spatter agent in the usual concentration of 1 to 2 %. Check the surface of the material before applying the agent. Apply the agent over a wide area and let it sit for a little while before you start welding. Make sure you don't overdose the agent, as this can make the surface too fluid.