Review on the use of activated flux in arc and beam welding processes

Abstract

Improvement in penetration capabilities is an important issue in many welding processes. One of the most emerging trends to improve penetration capabilities is the utilization of activated flux with welding processes. A thin coating of activated flux is applied on the area to be welded with the help of brush or spray. This paper represents a review of the use of activated fluxes in different arc welding and beam welding processes. Arc welding processes are most commonly employed for various manufacturing applications and hence most applications are considered for utilization of oxide fluxes with these processes. The most common mechanisms responsible for deeper penetration due to flux application in arc welding processes are Reverse Marangoni and arc constriction. EBW Process is considered for thick plates owing to its higher fusion zone depth to width ratio. Use of activation flux concentrates electron beam which creates a narrow and deep fusion zone due to keyhole mechanism. A combination of laser with activated flux improves penetration due to exothermic reaction in the weld pool, welding quality, welding efficiency significantly and reduces cost.