Many fabricators and project planners wonder whether special equipment or procedures are required when welding ASTM A606 Type 2 Corten Steel. The short answer is yes - it can be welded using standard welding methods, with only minor best practices to maintain corrosion resistance and strength.
Weldability Basics of ASTM A606 Type 2
ASTM A606 Type 2 is designed with good weldability as part of its standard specification.
It has a stable chemical composition with controlled levels of copper, chromium, and nickel.
These alloys support corrosion resistance but do not create major welding difficulties.
It behaves similarly to common high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steels during fabrication.
Standard Welding Methods That Work
You can use widely available processes without specialized gear:
MIG / GMAW
TIG / GTAW
Stick / SMAWAll are suitable for ASTM A606 Type 2, just as they are for common structural steel.
Simple Guidelines for Reliable Welds
To keep welds strong and corrosion-resistant:
Use mild-strength filler metals compatible with weathering steel (such as ER70S‑6 for MIG or E7018 for stick).
Keep heat input consistent - avoid excessive heat that could weaken the heat-affected zone.
Clean the weld area of oil, rust, or dust before welding.
Preheating is not required for most thin‑to‑medium gauges used in architectural work.
What This Means for Your Project
No need for expensive special welding machines.
No need for highly specialized training.
Most metal fabricators can weld ASTM A606 Type 2 with their normal setup.
In short, ASTM A606 Type 2 Corten Steel is fully weldable using standard techniques. With basic care for filler selection and heat control, you can achieve strong, durable welds that preserve the material's natural corrosion resistance.
