What is a principal disadvantage of submerged arc welding?

The principal disadvantage of submerged arc welding lies in the fact that the flux can spill off the weld puddle. This occurs because the process involves the use of a granular flux that covers the molten weld pool to protect it from atmospheric contamination and to improve the quality of the weld. When the weld pool is too large or if improper techniques are applied, it can lead to the flux spilling over, which not only fails to protect the weld but can also lead to the necessity for additional cleanup and further processing to rectify any issues caused by the contamination.

This characteristic can affect the overall quality and integrity of the weld joint, making it a significant disadvantage in contexts where maintaining strict quality control is essential. Other aspects related to operational costs, penetration efficiency, or material limitations also present considerations, but the issue of flux spillage directly impacts the welding process, making it a more prevalent concern among practitioners.