Welding & Flame Cutting Process for Corten Steel
Welding Corten Steel
• Method: Use SMAW (stick welding), GMAW (MIG), or FCAW with matching weathering steel electrodes (e.g., E7018-W or ER70S-3).
• Key Steps:
1. Clean the surface (remove mill scale/rust).
2. Preheat (if thickness > 20 mm; 150–200°C to avoid cracking).
3. Weld with low hydrogen rods.
4. Allow natural patina to reform post-weld (no need for paint).
Flame Cutting Corten
• Process: Use oxy-fuel cutting (acetylene or propane).
• Steps:
1. Mark cutting lines.
2. Preheat to ~900°C (cherry red).
3. Cut with a neutral flame; slower speed than carbon steel (Corten's alloying elements resist oxidation).
4. Grind edges to remove slag.
Post-Processing:
• Let cut/welded areas weather naturally; the patina will self-heal over time.
Note: Corten's properties match mild steel in fabrication but require slight adjustments for oxidation resistance.
