What must be removed after the completion of a thermite weld?

After the completion of a thermite weld, the head riser must be removed. The head riser is a component of the mold assembly that helps to guide the molten metal during the welding process and ensures that the weld pool is adequately formed and controlled. Once the thermite reaction is complete and the weld has solidified, the head riser is no longer needed and should be removed to allow for proper finishing of the weld and inspection of the completed joint.

The other components, such as the rail joint or welding charge, are not typically removed in the same way after the welding process. The welding charge is essential for generating the heat required for the weld, and the rail joint itself is the actual workpiece that is being welded. Mold assembly includes various parts that assist during the process but may not require removal like the head riser does. Therefore, focusing on the necessity of removing the head riser is central to understanding the steps that follow a thermite welding operation.