Utilization of Slag as a useful Flux in submerged Arc Welding

Slag generated during submerged arc welding is normally thrown away as a waste. This poses the problem of storage, disposal, environmental pollution and needs landfill space apart from exhaust of non-renewable resources. Reusing of slag will not only solve these problems but also be economical. In the present work an attempt has been made to recycle the submerged arc welding slag as a useful flux in the same submerged arc process. Fused slag was processed by replenishing it with suitable alloying elements /deoxidizers, and by agglomeration. This replenished slag is referred to as recycled slag. Recycled slag in combination with EL-8 filler wire was used for welding. The properties of weld metal deposited with recycled slag were evaluated. The mechanical properties were satisfactory and fulfill AWS (American Welding Society) requirements. The chemical composition of weld metal was within the acceptance range of AWS. The test plates cleared the radiographic test. Cost analysis indicates that it is economically viable to use the recycled slag.