Active flux TIG (ATIG) welding is a simple variant of conventional TIG welding that allows a major improvement in weld bead penetration. Different mechanisms have been proposed to explain the effect of flux. The most accepted ones consider the arc contraction by negative ions vaporized from the flux and liquid metal flow alterations in the weld pool caused by changes the surface tension values. This paper evaluates the effect of one component (Cr2O3) flux concentration and additions of KClO4 and Al2O3 on ATIG welding bead shape. Three sets of bead-on-plate weld tests were performed on 5 mm thick AISI 304 steel plates. Electric current and voltage were measured during each welding trial and the resulting bead geometry was evaluated in cross sections of the weld. Results indicated only minor variations in voltage during the transition from TIG to ATIG welding. Surface flux concentration affected weld bead penetration, and maximum penetration was obtained with flux densities between 15 and 60 g/m². On the other hand, the addition of KCLO4, despite this being a strong oxidizer, reduced weld penetration. A similar effect was linked to additions of Al2O3 to the flux.
Flux; weld bead shape; stainless steel; GTA welding
