How to Remove a Welded-in-Place Screw

Always wear safety glasses and gloves when using the angle grinder.

Some screws are welded to prevent the screws from becoming loose during normal operations. The only problem when the screws are welded is it is difficult to remove as you must cut the screw to remove it. The same technique used to remove a welded screw can also be used for a screw that due to time and the elements has become sealed and impossible to remove with normal tools. Luckily, removing a welded screw is a quick process and sometimes even quicker than removing a screw via normal means

Things You'll Need

• Angle grinder
• Metal cutting wheel
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Crowbar

Instructions

1. Load the metal-cutting wheel into the angle grinder. Ensure the cutting wheel is secure to the grinder so the wheel does not come loose during operation. Read the owner's manual for detailed instructions about how to secure the cutting wheel as the instructions can vary by manufacturer.

2. Remove all flammable liquids and compounds from the area where you will be cutting the screw.

3. Put on safety glasses and gloves.

4. Turn on the angle grinder and cut the head off the screw. Depending on the thickness of the screw it can take a minute or more. Turn off the angle grinder when you cut the head off the screw.

5. Pry off the piece that was being held by the welded screw, using the crowbar. It should snap off with little pressure if all the screws have been removed.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear eye protection as the angle grinder will throw lots of sparks and sharp pieces of metal while it is cutting the screw.

References

• The Family Handyman: How to Use an Angle Grinder