Filler Materials Overview
Filler metals are substances used in welding to form the weld seam and improve the properties of the base metal. Filler metals can be in different forms, e.g. wire, rod, powder or flux.
The selection of the right filler metal is very important as it can influence the properties of the weld and the entire component. The filler metal must therefore be well compatible with the base metal and have the same or similar mechanical and chemical properties.
Some of the most important properties of filler metals are:
- Chemical composition: the filler metal should have a similar chemical composition to the base metal to ensure good compatibility and a homogeneous weld.
- Strength: The filler metal must have sufficient strength to absorb the forces acting on the weld and ensure a good joint between the workpieces.
- Deformability: The filler metal must have sufficient deformability to adapt to the shape of the weld and to achieve a good welded joint.
- Corrosion resistance: The filler metal should have a high corrosion resistance to increase the lifetime of the whole component and to ensure a good resistance to external influences such as humidity or chemical substances.
The selection of the right filler metal depends on various factors, such as the base material, the type of weld, the required mechanical properties and the application of the entire component. Therefore, it is important to consider the manufacturer’s specifications and expert recommendations to ensure a high quality weld and a safe and reliable component.