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Preweld cleaning tips for TIG

Q: My primary function is to go into commercial kitchens and gas tungsten arc weld (GTAW) stainless steel that is covered in grease, dirt, and dust. In open areas I can grind the grease off, but I have a problem in tight corners that I can’t get into with a grinder. Can you recommend any cleaning procedure—such as chemical—that will allow me to burn the grease off before I start to weld?

A: Yours is truly a unique condition for GTAW. In your letter you state that you currently remove grease two different ways—with a grinder or through heat generated by your GTAW torch. Let me caution you on those methods, because the opportunity to ignite the grease exists in both.

Tips for Preweld Cleaning

My advice is first to attempt to remove the grease from the surfaces to be welded by using a cleaner that will break down the grease, such as a high concentration of dish washing soap. Work that in with water to break down the grease and remove it. If you need something stronger, trichloroethylene, acetone, methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, methyl ethyl ketone, benzene, isopropyl alcohol, toluene, mineral spirits, and turpentine work well. Each carries its own set of cautions that you’ll need to read up on.

If a wire brush is needed, use only wire brushes that are themselves stainless steel.

For additional information on cleaning stainless steel, go to www.ssina.com.

About the Author
Braun Intertec

Paul Cameron

Braun Intertec

4210 Highway 14 East

Rochester, MN 55904