What tool is commonly used to remove slag from a weld?

The tool that is commonly used to remove slag from a weld is a wire brush. After the welding process, especially when using stick welding (SMAW), slag forms on the surface of the weld as a result of the flux material melting and reacting with impurities. This slag must be removed to ensure good weld quality and to prepare the surface for any subsequent layers or inspections.

A wire brush effectively cleans the surface by dislodging and removing the slag without damaging the underlying weld. It can reach into the crevices and contours of the weld to ensure a thorough cleaning. This is essential because remaining slag can weaken the weld joint and may lead to corrosion over time.

In contrast, while a hammer can remove larger pieces of slag, it may not be as effective for finer cleaning. A grinder, while a powerful tool for smoothing and finishing welds, is typically used for larger surface areas and not specifically for slag removal. A welding rod is not a tool for removing slag but rather a consumable that is used in the welding process itself.