48123012 - Arcair 3/4-Inch Thick Carbon Backing Plate

Versatile Backing and Damming Solution for Welders

Every welder knows the frustration of a bad fit-up or the challenge of building up a worn-out edge without the weld metal dripping away. The Arcair 48123012 Carbon Plate is the shop problem-solver you didn't know you needed until you used it. This 12x12 inch square block is 3/4 of an inch thick, giving you a substantial piece of material that can be the difference between a messy repair and a professional finish. Because weld metal won't stick to carbon, you can use this plate to back up your welds, ensuring a smooth, flat root surface without the need for extensive grinding later.

The beauty of this carbon plate lies in its customization. You aren't stuck with the square shape; you can take a band saw or a hack saw and cut this plate into strips, wedges, or circles—whatever shape you need to fit the job at hand. Need to build up a broken corner on a casting? Cut a piece of this carbon plate to match the corner profile, clamp it in place, and weld right up against it. The carbon acts as a dam, holding the molten puddle in place until it freezes. Once you remove the clamp, the carbon pops right off, leaving you with a square edge that requires minimal cleanup. It is like having a custom mold for every unique repair job that comes through the door.

Beyond just holding weld metal, this plate is a fantastic heat sink. If you are welding on a part that has bearings, seals, or electrical components nearby, clamping this thick carbon plate to the metal helps pull the heat away from the sensitive areas. It protects your workpiece from warping and saves you the headache of replacing damaged components downstream. It is also perfect for use as a run-off tab. Instead of starting and stopping your weld on the part itself—which can lead to cold lap or craters—you can start on the carbon and run off onto the carbon, ensuring the entire length of the joint is sound.

This package contains one 3/4" x 12" x 12" plate. It is durable enough to be reused many times. If the surface gets pitted after repeated use, you can simply sand it flat again or cut off the worn edge. For welders working in maintenance, heavy equipment repair, or custom fabrication, keeping a slab of Arcair carbon in the toolbox is a smart move. It saves time, improves weld quality, and opens up new possibilities for how you approach difficult joints.