What is welding flux?

Welding flux is a material typically used in welding operations to prevent the formation of undesirable oxides or other undesirable chemical compounds in the welding process. It acts as a protective shield around the weld, preventing air and surface contaminants from entering into the weld pool. Welding flux can also provide a number of other benefits, depending on the specific type of flux being used, including improving wetting characteristics and reducing spatter. There are several types of welding flux available, including basic fluxes, acidic fluxes, and neutral fluxes, and each type is designed to meet specific welding requirements. The most common types of welding fluxes include flux-cored wire, stick electrode, and submerged arc welding flux. Welding flux should be used only in a well-ventilated area and proper precautions should be taken to prevent inhalation or skin contact with the flux material.