Arc cladding, sometimes called welding arc cladding, is a process used to apply an alloy layer to a component to impart a desired property, such as hardness or corrosion resistance. It allows for components to be enhanced for demanding environments without having to replace the entire part.
The process can be undertaken using different arc welding processes, including gas metal arc welding (GMAW), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) and plasma transferred arc welding (PTAW), and shielded metal arc welding (SMAW).
The process itself involves using a welding arc to fuse a filler metal as the cladding material to a base metal, creating a metallurgically bonded layer. Weld cladding is typically between 2 and about 20 mm thick, and this process can be used to both internal and external surfaces – such as flange faces or pipe bores - adding different properties to the base metal.
Benefits
Arc cladding offers a range of benefits, including:
- Improved performance: Enhancing a component's characteristics by imparting new properties such as resistance to corrosion, heat, abrasion, or friction
- Material and weight savings: Less expensive or lighter base materials can be clad with costlier high-performance alloys
- Component longevity: Extends the life of critical components through improved material properties
- Restoration: Arc cladding can also be used to restore or repair worn parts