Do’s and Don’ts of Electrolytic Weld Cleaning

Electrolytic weld cleaning, otherwise called electrochemical weld cleaning, is a fairly straightforward process. You only need a high-performance weld cleaning machine and the appropriate parts and accessories. The system will take care of the rest. And before you know it, your metal surfaces are incomparably passivated and clean.

As simple as the process is, however, you still have to pay attention to the do’s and don’ts. By ticking these boxes, you ensure optimal weld cleaning results.

Do’s of Electrolytic Weld Cleaning

Electrolytic weld cleaning is safe and efficient. It gets the job done seamlessly as long as you prepare for it properly. The do’s of the job greatly depend on what you do at the start.

Choose the right machine for the job.

Are you looking for something powerful and economical? Are your welds cleaning needs more demanding? Pay attention to the types of welds and contamination levels that a machine can handle. By choosing the right machine, you’re already halfway there.

Choose the right brush and cleaning fluids.

All the power is contained in the actual weld cleaning machine. But the success of a job depends on the tools and accessories you use. Research or inquire about the most compatible weld cleaning brushes and fluids for the metal welds you’re working with.

Use machines, accessories and consumables from the same brand.

There are many electrochemical weld cleaning machine manufacturers on the market. To make sure that you’re getting the most out of your machine, use it with fluids and consumables that are offered by the same brand. This prevents malfunctions, too.

Always neutralize the metal surface after weld cleaning.

The electrolytic weld cleaning process doesn’t end after the actual weld cleaning. After washing away the residue from the weld cleaning fluid, coat the metal surface with neutralizing fluid. Simply wash away to remove acidic residues and prevent white frosting. This process boosts corrosion resistance, too.

Inspect your equipment before and clean after every use.

Finally, never forget to inspect your weld cleaning equipment and accessories. This is important regardless of how dependable the products are. Through proper inspection pre- and post-weld cleaning, you can detect and address preventable equipment issues and work delays.

Don’ts of Electrolytic Weld Cleaning

No matter how eager you are to switch to electrochemical weld cleaning or to test the new electrolytic machine that you bought, you have to remain careful and observant. Keep these don’ts in mind for a seamless job.

• Don’t ignore the user manual, especially if you switched brands or are working with new equipment.
• Don’t use worn-out weld cleaning brushes. Replace them regularly to avoid performance issues.
• Don’t replace neutralizing fluids with plain water. The results depend on the fluid formulation.
• Don’t leave the machine on after use. Store it properly for longer life and lower energy consumption.
• Don’t work in poorly ventilated areas unless you’re wearing the recommended PPE. Avoid inhaling welding fumes.

Why Choose Electrolytic Weld Cleaning?

Mechanical weld cleaning removes a thin layer of the metal surface to prevent rust and erase imperfections. This is a time-consuming task, and the results do not always meet your aesthetic and passivation requirements.

Chemical weld cleaning is another fairly effective way to clean metal surfaces. The chemicals used for this type of weld cleaning might post health hazards, though. They contribute to air pollution and chemical waste, too.

Many end-users and manufacturers find electrochemical weld cleaning the safest, fastest and most efficient solution.

It addresses aesthetics, passivation, acidic residues, cross-contamination and rust inhibition without posing any harm on the system operator. It’s a simple process, too. It involves the use of a high-quality weld cleaning machine, a conductive brush and mild cleaning fluid. You can easily accomplish the weld cleaning and passivation results that you’re looking for.

These benefits of electrolytic weld cleaning give it an edge over the mechanical and chemical alternatives:

• Safety: Electrochemical weld cleaning and neutralizing fluids are relatively mild.
• Portability: Electrochemical weld cleaning machines are compact and portable.
• Speed of Use: Electrochemical systems clean and passivate metal surfaces simultaneously.

And when used with the right weld fluid solutions, electrolytic weld cleaning can provide greater corrosion resistance than other weld cleaning methods.

Let’s Discuss Electrolytic Weld Cleaning

TIG Brush is a global leader in electrochemical weld cleaning technology. Our unique combination of heat, electricity and chemistry result in flawless weld cleaning and metal finishing solutions. These solutions also maximize user safety and minimize environmental damage.

Learn more about safe and effective electrolytic weld cleaning from our team. Fill out our contact form.