Title: What is Cold Welding? - Definition from Corrosionpedia
Headings: Cold Welding
Cold Welding
Definition - What does Cold Welding mean?
Corrosionpedia explains Cold Welding
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Content: Corrosionpedia explains Cold Welding
When two surfaces without an interposing oxide layer are brought together, the similar atoms of either side collapse into each other. Cold welding as a joining technique has some limitations. The joint can fail in a reactive environment or a high oxygen environment. It is suitable for buried pipes and for components deployed in spaces where there is no risk of oxygen contact. For the cold welding to be effective, the surfaces need to be brushed and cleaned effectively. If the outer layer of any one of the components has high oxygen content, adhesion is unlikely to occur. Another critical factor is the malleability of the metals used. At least one of the two metals to be joined must be malleable. Unintended cold welding, causing welding of separable contacts, was discussed as a mechanical issue in some of the early satellites. Cold welding concepts are used in nano and micro fabrications in high-technology areas.