The joint and the job
Share pipe diameter, wall thickness, material, joint condition and whether the job is welding a fitted joint or treating a pipe end. Include the project location and required date.
Pipeline welding · Field support
Arc blow in pipeline welding.
A wandering arc can stop progress at the joint. When residual magnetism is part of the problem, Canadian Degauss can help you plan demagnetization support.
Understand the problem
What is magnetic arc blow?
Magnetic arc blow is deflection of the welding arc caused by distortion of its magnetic field. Residual magnetism in steel and the position of the welding current return can contribute to it. An unstable arc alone does not establish the cause; the welding conditions need to be assessed.
Demagnetization, also called degaussing or demag, addresses unwanted magnetism. It is one part of evaluating a welding problem, alongside the applicable welding procedure and site conditions.
Technical background: TWI: What is magnetic arc blow?
Prepare for a useful conversation
What to have ready when you call.
Your observations
Describe what the arc is doing, when the problem appears and what your welding team has checked. If gauss readings are available, include where and how they were taken.
Site conditions
Tell us about preheat, access around the pipe, available power and site-entry requirements. These details affect equipment selection and field planning.
Choose the support you need
Rent equipment or bring in a technician?
IDMAG equipment rental
Discuss a rental when your crew can operate the supplied system in accordance with its manual and your site procedures. Confirm the cable configuration, power supply, operating limits and delivery arrangements before the job.
Compare rental equipment and contact Proline →On-site demagnetization service
Ask Canadian Degauss about a technician when your crew needs help assessing the application, setting up the equipment, operating the system or checking the resulting magnetic condition.
Explore on-site technician support →Common arc-blow questions
Is there one gauss reading that applies to every weld?
Use the requirements for your specific project, material and welding procedure. Share available readings with the team reviewing the job; this guide does not set an acceptance limit or authorize a change to a welding procedure.
Should the crew change welding settings?
Changes belong with the responsible welding personnel and the applicable procedure. Contact us about the magnetic condition and demagnetization options rather than treating an equipment rental as a substitute for that review.
Can you support projects across Canada?
Yes. We coordinate on-site support and rental enquiries for Canadian projects. Mobilization, equipment availability and freight timing are confirmed for each job. See how Canada-wide support is arranged.
Where are the operating instructions?
Use the IDMAG renter setup guide to find the relevant section of the full manual, setup checks and cable-care reminders.