What is the recommended surface-preparation sequence for stainless steel prior to TIG welding?

• A. Degrease with solvent, then brush with stainless steel brush, then the weld area is cleaned
• B. Brush with stainless steel brush, then degrease, then weld
• C. Degrease, sandblast, then rinse
• D. No cleaning needed

Answer: (A)

Surface preparation for stainless steel before TIG welding focuses on removing contaminants that can cause weld defects. Degreasing with a solvent first removes oils and greases that would contaminate the weld pool. Then you mechanically clean with a stainless steel brush to shear off the oxide layer and debris without introducing iron from a carbon steel brush. A final wipe or rinse ensures no residue remains on the surface. Using other sequences, like brushing first, blasting, or skipping cleaning, can leave oils, oxides, or abrasive particles that lead to porosity, inclusions, or corrosion. This order—degrease, then stainless-brush clean, then final clean—puts a clean, oxide-free surface at the weld zone, which is essential for a sound TIG weld.