ELECTRODE STORE KEEPER

Every inspector will agree that 90% of the weld defects can be eliminated by following the proper electrode handling procedures.

The welder and his assistant are handling the electrodes for only short period ; from issue of electrodes, to melt it to make a sound joint. The heating of quiver is the main issue they have to deal, with in this short period of handling.

So who is the main person  for the electrode related issues, yes electrode store keeper.

We will now see what are the main responsibilities of electrode keeper.

1. Segregation and assigning separate distinguishable area for each type and size of electrodes and filler.

2. Stacking of filler and electrodes packets according to the manufacturer recommendations. 

3. Storage atmosphere as per manufacturer recommendations.

4. Baking of electrodes as per manufacturer recommendations.

5. Maintaining records of baking and holding oven with temperature, number of electrodes in the oven, rebaking of electrodes etc.

6. Issuing of electrodes and filler wires to authorized persons only. (Quality control engineer will issue a list of welders and welder assistants whom a particular type of electrode can be issued.)

7. Maintaining calibration records of oven and other temperature and humidity measuring Instruments.

8. Checking portable quivers for temperature and  bits of electrodes before issuing new electrodes. 

9. Updation of electrode issue register and balance electrode records on daily basis and submission of those records to planning engineer and store in charge.

10. Issue of electrodes in first in first out basis.

11. Stacking of new electrodes, making it ready for inspection with material test certificates and inspection note.

12. Issue of those electrodes which are cleared by quality control department.

13. Keeping returned electrodes (from site) for rebaking and maintaining separate records for the same.

14 . Electrode store keeper should have the knowledge of "what to do when the power is gone". He should be trained for handling the power failure situations as per approved electrode handling procedure.