Welds on stainless steel tend to show contamination easier than welds on what other material?

Welds on stainless steel are indeed more susceptible to showing contamination compared to welds on mild steel. This is primarily due to the inherent nature of stainless steel, which is known for its lower thermal conductivity and higher susceptibility to oxidation and contaminants. The chromium content in stainless steel is what provides its corrosion resistance, but it also creates a more reactive surface that can be affected by contaminants such as oils, grease, or even atmospheric elements during the welding process.

Mild steel does not have the same composition or surface reactivity as stainless steel. When welding mild steel, the potential for oxidation and contamination does exist, but it typically does not manifest as visibly under the same welding conditions. The process involved in welding mild steel allows it to be more forgiving compared to stainless steel, where any contaminants can easily lead to defects like porosity or lack of fusion that are often visible upon inspection.

Therefore, the tendency for welds on stainless steel to display contamination issues more readily can be attributed to the material's physical properties and its interaction with the environment, making mild steel a less likely candidate for exhibiting such issues during welding.