Protaweld^® S200 is an alginate polymer designed to create high-quality coatings for welding electrodes. Typically added between 0.5–2.0 wt%, it is useful in optimizing welding rod manufacturing from start to finish, beginning with the coverage paste and finishing with the coated electrode.

In coverage paste, Protaweld^® alginate prevents air bubble formation, adds plasticity, builds viscosity and body, and helps to maintain moisture. Protaweld^® S200 also provides the paste with excellent green strength and minimal sagging, allowing it to form consistent thicknesses and homogeneity. During extrusion, the plasticity of the paste helps make the extrusion process of the welding electrode coating easier, enabling higher-capacity production without an increase in pressure. When drying, the alginate promotes better adhesion between the core and the coating, prevents cracking, and acts as an anti-sticking agent. Altogether, the functionality that Protaweld^® S200 delivers to the flux coating process creates welding rods that have better bendability and superior welding ability.