Types of Welding Flames

Introduction

Welding is a process of joining two or more metals together using heat and pressure. One of the important factors that determine the quality of the welding is the type of flame used during the process. There are three types of welding flames: neutral, oxidizing, and carburizing.

Neutral Flame

A neutral flame is the most commonly used flame in welding. It is achieved by mixing equal amounts of oxygen and acetylene in the welding torch. The flame has a temperature of around 3,500°C and is used for welding most metals, including steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. The neutral flame produces a clean, efficient, and stable flame that creates a good weld with minimal splatter.

Oxidizing Flame

An oxidizing flame is created by adding more oxygen to the welding torch than acetylene. The flame has a temperature of around 3,800°C and is used for welding metals that have a high melting point, such as cast iron and high-carbon steel. The oxidizing flame produces a more intense heat than the neutral flame, which makes it useful for cutting and gouging metals as well.

Carburizing Flame

A carburizing flame is created by adding more acetylene to the welding torch than oxygen. The flame has a temperature of around 3,200°C and is used for welding metals that have a high carbon content, such as cast iron and some steels. The carburizing flame produces a reducing atmosphere that can add carbon to the surface of the metal being welded. This can make the metal harder and more wear-resistant.

Conclusion

Choosing the right type of flame is important for achieving a high-quality weld. The neutral flame is the most commonly used flame in welding and is suitable for most metals. The oxidizing flame is useful for welding metals with a high melting point, while the carburizing flame is useful for welding metals with a high carbon content. By understanding the characteristics of each type of flame, welders can choose the right flame for the job and achieve a successful weld.