What is arc strike? What is the proper corrective action?

 Damage on the parent material resulting from the accidental striking of an arc outside the weld area. Avoid wrong arc strike .

The problem comes about when the arc is established outside of the area to be welded and this strike leaves a very hard area (due to the momentary strike that creates a hard node) that with any stress can become the start point for a crack or small fracture that with continued stress will grow until complete failure of the part

So an arc strike occurs most commonly due to an accidental strike by a welder outside of the weld area where it will not be consumed by the weld process and if left will expose the part to potential failure at some time in the future.

"Arc strike" is commonly used to describe a mark left on the metal caused by the misplaced arc being started outside the weld area.

Welder competence will play a big part in the ability to strike an arc in the weld zone where intended but regardless of the reason for the "arc strike" the answer is to remove the arc strike to prevent possible part failure at some time in the future.

summary:Definition: A localized coalescence outside the weld zone

•          Cause: Carelessness

•          Prevention: In difficult areas, adjacent areas can be protected using fire blankets.

•          Repair: Where applicable, arc strikes must be sanded smooth and tested for cracks. If found, they must be remove and repaired using a qualified repair procedure and inspected as any other weld.