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Removing a TIG weld on round stainless steel
Application · Stainless steel

Removing TIG welds on round stainless steel

For round or tubular stainless steel workpieces, flap discs are the best option. They follow the curve, remove the weld quickly and prevent flat spots on the tube.

TIG weld around a stainless steel tube
Our solutions

Which product suits your workpiece

Want to remove the weld and finish it right away? Choose the RCD. If the workpiece doesn’t need finishing, the FSC is the affordable choice.

Remove and finish
Our choice
Flap disc RCD

RCD

Flap disc

Ideal for removing and finishing a TIG weld in one step.

  • Follows the curve of the tube
  • Saves an extra work step
Suitable for
Flexible shaft
Flexible shaft
Air pressure tool
Air pressure tool
Angle grinder
Angle grinder
Stationary machine
Stationary machine
Affordable
Economical
Flap disc FSC

FSC

Flap disc

Affordable choice when finishing is not needed.

  • Zirconia grain, grit 40 to 120
Suitable for
Flexible shaft
Flexible shaft
Air pressure tool
Air pressure tool
Angle grinder
Angle grinder
Stationary machine
Stationary machine

In the video: RCD flap disc

How to remove a TIG weld on a round stainless steel workpiece in 3 steps

1

Choose your flap disc

Choose the RCD if you want to remove and finish in one step. If the workpiece doesn’t need finishing, choose the FSC.

2

Follow the curve

Move the disc along with the shape of the tube and don’t grind in one spot. This prevents flat spots and discolouration.

3

Check the result

Check that the weld is flush with the tube everywhere and the curve is preserved. Then finish further if needed.

Frequently asked questions about removing TIG welds on round stainless steel

How do you remove a TIG weld on a round stainless steel tube?

On round or tubular stainless steel workpieces, a flap disc is the best choice. The flaps follow the curve, so you remove the weld without flat spots. Follow the curve of the tube and keep moving.

Why do you use a flap disc for welds on round stainless steel?

A flap disc combines stock removal with control. It is more flexible than a fibre disc or grinding disc and adapts better to the curved surface. It also wears evenly, giving you a consistent result.

What is the advantage of the RCD flap disc?

With the RCD, you grind away a weld seam and finish it in one operation. It combines two abrasive materials and gives a consistent, professional finish, even if you have less grinding experience.

When do you choose the FSC flap disc?

Choose the FSC when the weld has to go but a fine finish is not needed. It is available in grit 80 and 120 and is an entry-level disc with an excellent price-performance ratio that removes material well, even at low pressure.

How do you prevent flat spots on a round stainless steel tube?

Don’t grind in one spot and move the disc around the tube. Work with light pressure and check regularly that the tube is still round. A flap disc such as the RCD helps because it follows the curve.

Overview of the most common challenges when grinding stainless steel

Phase 1

Weld removal

Removing TIG welds on flat stainless steel
View solution
Removing TIG welds on round stainless steel
Removing TIG welds in  inside corners or 2D corners
Phase 2

Post-processing and cleaning

Removing scratches from flat stainless steel
Removing scratches from round stainless steel
Deburring sharp edges on stainless steel
Removing weld discolouration or paint
Phase 3

Finishing and uniformity

Texturing or orbital grinding of stainless steel
Grinding to a target Ra value
Pre-grinding for the final finish
Final finish: grit 320 brushed finish
Final finish: mirror polishing

More information

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