hitsauspuikkoja

Hitsauspuikkoja, often translated as welding electrodes or welding rods, are consumables used in arc welding processes, particularly shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), also known as stick welding. These rods are essentially metal wires coated with a flux material. The core wire acts as a filler material that melts and joins the base metals, while the flux coating serves multiple crucial functions.

During the welding process, the arc generated between the electrode and the workpiece melts both the electrode's core wire and the base metals. The heat of the arc also ignites the flux coating. This coating melts and decomposes, creating a shielding gas that protects the molten weld pool from atmospheric contamination, such as oxygen and nitrogen, which can weaken the weld. The flux also forms a slag layer on top of the solidifying weld bead. This slag further protects the weld during cooling and can influence the weld bead's shape and penetration. Once the weld has cooled, the slag is typically chipped or brushed away.

Hitsauspuikkoja are manufactured from various types of metals, most commonly steel, and are available in a wide range of compositions and diameters to suit different welding applications and base metal types. The flux coating also varies significantly, influencing the welding characteristics, such as arc stability, spatter generation, and the mechanical properties of the resulting weld. Common electrode types include those for mild steel, stainless steel, and cast iron. The selection of the correct hitsauspuikko is critical for achieving a strong, sound, and defect-free weld.