Filler metal is used to join two pieces of metal together during welding or soldering. Different types of filler materials are available, such as covered electrodes, bare electrodes, and flux. The choice of filler metal depends on factors such as material strength match, shape of metal objects, and fire or corrosion resistance.
Filler metal refers to any material used to join two pieces of metal together during welding or soldering. As the two objects are held together, filler metal is fused between the two to create a bridge. After the putty dries, it combines with the objects on both sides to create a permanent bond.
The filler materials used in metal joints come in a variety of shapes to meet the needs of different projects. Covered electrodes consist of solid metal rods coated with protective alloys or coatings. These metals are used in stick welding, or covered arc welding, which is one of the most basic welding techniques. During this process, the rod of filler metal is held within the area of the weld. When heat is applied to the area, the metal stick melts to fill the space between the two. Coated electrodes typically consist of things like carbon steel or chromium coated steel, which is used to improve corrosion resistance in the finished product.
Bare electrodes are another form of filler metal and are commonly used during shielded gas arc welding. The metal itself consists of wire wound inside a wire feed device. When soldering, the user passes the wire through the shielded welder to join two metal objects together. Bare electrode wires are often made from metals such as copper, tin, lead, or nickel.
Welders looking for a filler material can also choose flux, which is used in submerged arc welding. During this process, the flux covers the entire arch as the two materials are brought together. By covering the weld arc, flux fillers protect the user from sparks, flames and other welding hazards.
When selecting a filler metal, workers must decide how the tensile strength of the filler compares to the tensile strength of the metal. When the strength of each is relatively equal, the filler is said to be matched to the metal. The surrounding metal’s weaker filler is said to be inadequate, which can help reduce the risk of cracking or failure in high-strength materials. Filler that is stronger than the surrounding metal is considered overmatched. Overlapping filler metal offers high strength in some applications, but it also comes at a high price and may not be suitable for all projects.
In addition to material strength match, workers must consider a number of other factors when choosing a filler metal. The shape of metal objects, as well as the material from which they are made, can influence the selection of filler. This decision may also be influenced by the fire or corrosion resistance of the metal, as well as the type of welding technique used.
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