Removal of Weld Oxides (REWOX)

Purpose and goal

The project goal is to enable more effective material utilisation in the industry, with low environmental impact and long-life expectancy for stainless steel constructions, including the weld. The aim is to validate the effectiveness, of newer cleaning options (electrolytical cleaning and laser ablation) in comparison to more conventional methods, ex chemical pickling. Corrosion testing will be the main method of evaluation. The project will also address issues such as environmental impact from a lifecycle perspective and risk analysis form a work environment perspective.

Expected effects and result

Increased knowledge of more environmentally friendly and less hazardous means of post-weld oxide removal. It will enable replacement of commonly used chemical pickling paste which contains hazardous chemicals. It is of significance especially during in-field welding, as the handling and disposal of pickling paste is increasingly complicated. The project will also clarify how to correctly perform post-weld cleaning to ensure sufficient corrosion properties after welding, which will increase the life expectancy of the construction.

Planned approach and implementation

The consortia consist of companies and individuals with great knowledge throughout the value chain. The work is divided into 6 work packages, which are generally chronological in time. WP1: Planning of test matrix WP2: Production of welded joints WP3: Post-weld cleaning WP4: Evaluation with a focus on corrosion testing WP5: Assessment of the cleaning methods impact on global environment and work environment WP6: Dissemination and Project management