Welding of H-shaped Steel (YB 3301-81) (Part II)
We have already discussed the basics of welding H-shaped steel structures in Part I, which covered the necessary preparations for welding. In this part, we will discuss the actual welding process, as well as some techniques for improving weld quality and strength.
The welding technique for H-shaped steel sections, or box section if you prefer to call them, is different from almost any other welding technique. This is due to the unique shape and design of these sections. The edges of these sections, while they may appear to be straight and level, are actually not. The edges are slightly curved, unlike the edges of other steel sections. In addition, the sections themselves are designed to be joined together in pairs, which require a different welding technique. Therefore, it is important to understand the proper technique in order to maximize the strength of a welded H-shaped steel structure.
The first step in the welding process is to properly prepare the edges of the H-shaped steel sections that are to be joined. This is important because it helps ensure that the two edges are adequately aligned, thus ensuring an even and uniform weld. Before welding, it is important to use an angle grinder to smooth out any burrs that may exist along the edges, as burrs can cause irregularities in the weld. Once the edges are properly prepared, they should be wiped off with a clean cloth in order to remove any dust, dirt, or debris.
The next step is to apply welding flux to the edges of the H-shaped steel sections that are to be welded. This flux helps to reduce the surface tension between the two pieces of steel, allowing for a better bond between them. After the flux has been applied, the pieces should then be clamped together in order to hold them in place while the weld is being formed.
When the pieces are clamped together, the welder will then prepare the area for welding. This may involve cleaning the area again with a clean cloth, as well as laying down a protective sheet of metal if needed. The welder will then be ready to begin the welding process. A special welding gun will be used with a special type of metal wire, which is specifically designed for welding H-shaped steel structures. This metal wire is used because of its superior strength and quality, allowing for a stronger weld.
Once the welding gun is ready, the welderwill then begin welding the two H-shaped steel sections together. The most important part of this process is to maintain a consistent and steady welding motion, while being mindful of the heat intensity of the welding gun at all times. If the welding motion is too slow, the weld can become weak and porous, while if the motion is too fast, the weld can become brittle and uneven.
In order to ensure the highest quality weld, it is important to follow a few other steps. First, it is important to use a welding rod that is designed specifically for welding H-shaped steel sections, as this will help ensure a stronger weld. Additionally, it is important to constantly monitor the heat intensity of the welding gun, as well as to constantly check the area that is being welded for any signs of weakness. The welding gun should not be left on for too long, and it should not be used in any other sections than what it was made for. These precautions will help to ensure that the weld is strong and permanent.
Welding H-shaped steel sections requires knowledge, skill, and experience in order to create the highest quality weld possible. While it may seem like a daunting task, with a little practice any welder can master the technique and create a high quality and strong weld. So if you are looking to weld H-shaped steel sections, just remember to take your time, be patient, and follow these steps, and you should be able to create a quality weld in no time.
