Weld Studs, also known as Headed Concrete Anchors or Shear Connectors, are manufactured with a small Flux Insert at the tip. (Fig. 1) The flux serves to shield the weld area from oxidation, maintains a consistent arc and cleans the weld area of impurities. All of this facilitates a more durable bond with the substrate.
Fig. 1
The Aluminum Flux insert is shown in the center of the Weld Stud.
However, these functions only apply to Drawn Arc or Capacitor discharge welding. Often steel fabricators will hand weld the studs in a system where the flux serves no purpose. To ease the hand welding process the flux tip can be removed. This allows for a for a more positive connection and easier welding process. (Fig 2)
Fig. 2 
Shown is a ¾” x 6-3/16” Shear Connector being hand welded to the substrate.
Note the absence of the Flux Tip
allows for a flush connection
with the steel plate.
The Flux is made from aluminum and is therefore relatively soft. Firm tapping with a hammer and chisel will cause the tip to fall out. This method is effective but will add a modest amount of time to the project. Fig. 3
Fig. 3
The Flux Tip, being soft aluminum, can be removed
with several firm taps with a chisel.
If a large enough quantity of is required arrangements can be made to manufacture the Weld Studs without a flux tip. The same can apply to fully, partially and internally threaded weld studs. For manual welding fabrication shops this will provide a faster and more efficient method of achieving the most positive connection manual welding can produce.
To discuss this option or receive a quote for Weld Studs, Shear Connectors or Headed Concrete Anchors delivered with or without Fux Tips, call or email your Steel Supply Company Representative today !