What are "fillers" in welding?

Fillers in welding refer to materials that are added to a weld joint during the welding process to help achieve the desired strength, integrity, and overall properties of the finished weld. These materials can include rods, wires, or other consumables that are melted alongside the base metals being joined. The use of fillers is vital in ensuring that the weld has the necessary characteristics to withstand the intended use, such as load-bearing capacity or resistance to environmental factors.

The addition of fillers also helps to fill any gaps between joint parts, creating a complete and competent weld joint. This process not only enhances the physical properties of the weld but also ensures a good fusion of materials, which is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the weld.

In contrast, the other options touch on different aspects of the welding process but do not accurately define fillers. For instance, tools for cleaning the weld area are important for surface preparation but do not contribute material to the weld itself. A type of welding gas is crucial for shielding and maintaining the quality of the weld, while storage equipment pertains to organizing and managing materials rather than being involved in the welding process itself.