How to Use an HDPE Welding Rod

Welding rod, also called HDPE welding wire, is commonly used in mining and civil engineering projects, and it is one of the most frequently used materials. Even so, many new field workers on civil engineering or mining projects are still unfamiliar with it, so here is how to use welding rod.

Extrusion

The extrusion method joins geomembrane using HDPE welding rod and a heating tool, similar to welding steel. When seaming on slopes, always start at the top and work downwards.

Here are the steps:

• Cut the geomembrane sheets according to the working drawings.
• Prepare the tools and materials needed for all joints between liner sheets.
• Lay the geomembrane at the installation site. Use sandbags to keep the liner from shifting in the wind.
• Tack the overlapping edges of the liner sheets together with hot air (hot air tack method).
• Grind the seam area of the liner sheets smooth and clean with a grinder.
• Start welding the seams with the extrusion welding system and the hot wedge system.
• Leak-test the welded seams with a vacuum box tester, monitored by the site supervisor.
• If a leak is found, repair it immediately with an extruder and welding rod.