High heat and expensive equipment are required for welding cast iron.No matter how informative the Internet article is, you should not attempt it on the strength of reading it.Understanding the basics can help you prepare for a qualification course or make better decisions for welding projects run by qualified personnel under your supervision.
Step 1: The cast iron should not be used in the range of 150 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
This is a dangerous area for cast iron because it is the most difficult to work with.It will usually mean heating or cooling the iron.
Step 2: The 500 to 1,200 F range is where the work needs to be done.
Step 3: Keep iron cool.
Sometimes the machinery can be run to get it up to the desired temperature.
Step 4: You can touch the patch with your bare hand if it's cool.
Cold patches can take too long to heat up, so they can ruin the weld.To find the best temperature for the iron formula you are using, consult your engineering specifications documents.
Step 5: Attach a cast part that serves as a patch between the intact parts of the cast iron to repair cracks.
Step 6: Weld patches in place using short welds.
As you work, this will keep the metal from overheating.
Step 7: Studding can be used to reinforce cracks.
This technique involves drilling holes into the cast iron surface.The screws are welded in place as part of the repair job.
Step 8: When your welding is done, you will find small cracks in the iron.
This is part of welding cast iron.It's a good idea to use a seal compound for joints and sections.