What is the first step in preparing metal for welding?

Cleaning the metal surface to remove any contaminants is crucial in preparing metal for welding because it ensures a strong bond during the welding process. Contaminants such as dirt, oil, rust, and paint can lead to defects in the weld, such as porosity or incomplete fusion. By starting with a clean surface, you facilitate the formation of a strong metallurgical connection during welding, which is essential for the integrity and strength of the final product.

Heating the metal is not the initial step in the process, as it is generally done later in specific welding techniques and only when the metal is adequately prepared. Coating the metal with protective substances may be necessary in some applications, but it is not part of the initial preparations for welding. Aligning parts to be welded is certainly important, but it follows the cleaning step, ensuring that there are no barriers to achieving a proper weld.