5.12.1 Factors Affecting the Formation of Hydrogen Cracks
The tendency to form hydrogen cracks depends on the following factors:
- Amount of hydrogen present in the weld pool: The greater the amount of hydrogen
present in the weld pool, the greater the chance of forming hydrogen cracks. The amount
of hydrogen introduced into the pool depends on such factors as the welding process used;
the design of the welding consumable and its storage conditions; and the presence of
moisture, oil, grease, etc. on the workpiece to be welded. Generally, the GTAW and
GMAW introduce the smallest amount of hydrogen into the weld pool and these are called
low-hydrogen processes.