During the thermite welding process, excess weld material should be dealt with how?

During the thermite welding process, it is crucial to manage any excess weld material effectively to ensure a strong and clean weld. Grinding down the excess weld material is important because it ensures that the final weld meets the necessary specifications and does not have any protrusions that could affect the integrity or functionality of the welded joint.

Excess material could lead to uneven surfaces that may not align properly with other components, potentially causing mechanical issues or source points for fatigue and failure in the weld. By grinding down the excess, the weld area can be polished and smoothed, allowing for a better fit and improved aesthetic appearance. Additionally, this practice helps prevent potential hazards during operations, where any sharp edges or protrusions could pose a risk.

In contrast, simply increasing the thickness would not effectively address the issue of excess material and might lead to additional complications. Leaving the excess material as is or applying it to the rail could similarly lead to misalignments and could compromise the overall quality and safety of the weld. Thus, grinding down the excess weld material maintains the structural integrity and performance of the welded joint.