Welding is one of the essential methods of joining two or more materials together. It has innumerable applications in the modern industrial sectors, ranging from steel fabrication, fabrication of pipelines and pressure vessels, automotive repair, and much more.
As per a recent survey, around 40 million Americans are employed in welding related jobs. Moreover, the global welding equipment market size was valued at USD 12 billion in 2019 and is expected to witness a growth of
6% during 2020-202 One of the most critical components of the welding process is the scavenger and it plays an important role in producing a successful weld. This article discusses the fundamentals of a scavenger and its importance in welding.
What is a Scavenger in Welding?
Welding is a complex process that requires precision and skill. In order to ensure a successful weld, it is important to use the right types of tools and techniques.One such tool is a scavenger, which is designed to help protect the weld from atmospheric contamination. In this article we will discuss what a scavenger is and how it is used in welding.
What is a Scavenger?
A scavenger, also known as a protective gas, is a gas or material that is used to reduce contamination during the welding process.It serves to protect the weld against oxidation, porosity, and other common welding defects. Scavengers can be used in a variety of welding processes including MIG, TIG, spot welding, and laser welding.
Why Is It Used in Welding?
When welding metals, it is important to create a clean, oxidation-free environment for the weld. This is because oxidation causes corrosion and can weaken the welded joint.
Using a protective gas or scavenger helps to create a protective shield around the weld, which prevents oxidation from occurring. This can result in stronger, less porous welds that are more resistant to corrosion.
Types of Scavengers Used in Welding
There are several different types of scavengers used in welding.The most common types include Argon, Helium, and Hydrogen. Argon is the most commonly used and provides a colorless and odorless gas that is non-reactive with other metals or materials. Helium can also be used in some welding applications and is the most expensive of the three. Hydrogen is the least common, but it is the most reactive and can prevent oxidation more effectively than the other two.