What does electroslag welding primarily utilize to weld thick sections of steel plate?

Electroslag welding primarily utilizes liquid slag to weld thick sections of steel plate. In this process, an electric arc is established and used to melt a filler metal, which then becomes immersed in a molten slag pool. The liquid slag is crucial because it serves as both an insulator and a medium to transfer heat to the base metal. The high temperature of the molten slag allows for efficient heating and melting of the thicker sections, enabling deeper penetration and strong welds. The slag also helps protect the weld pool from contamination while providing a stable environment for the welding operation. This makes liquid slag an essential component of the electroslag welding process, particularly for heavy-duty applications where the joining of thick materials is required.