How difficult is it to weld steel after it has been galvanized? We need to modify a galvanized sign post for minimal loads (supporting signs and flashing beacon). Does anyone have any procedural or specification suggestions?
Not difficult ,run a 6011 pass, grind to suit & cover with 7018, after chipped & ground spay on cold galvanizing spray.If you don't work to any particular procedures.You also need to have a lot of ventilation & or a proper respirator.
If at all possible the galvanize can be ground off a half inch or so from the area to be welded and then spray on cold galvanize spray when complete.I definitely agree with bhiltz on saying that proper ventilation and / or respirator should always be used when welding anything galvanized because of the risk of galvanize poisoning. The old wives remedy of drinking a lot of milk to help relieve the effects of poisoning helps somewhat but the best solution is protection against it.
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