Welding table surface- keep or remove mill scale?

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I picked up some plate for my 3x6 bench (currently I have a wood top) and I want to know if it is wise to remove the mill scale from the top surface. I figure it's a good rust preventative but I would like to be able to use my table as a ground and I don't want the mill scale to compromise that. Thoughts?
Reply:I just left my mill scale on, except where I would like to have some good ground areas, like around the edges.  Lot of work to remove all of it and like you said, it provides some rust protection.
Reply:I only took the finish off of a 1.5x1.5' square on my table where I do most of my welding. Gotta keep it oiled or something after that.
Reply:I took it off of mine and just run a wire wheel or light grit flap disc across it occasionally to keep it clean
Reply:If you want to spray it with something to keep it from rusting you might try fluid film.  It's not greasy but will stop rustMiller 250x & Lincoln V205-TSmith Oxy-Prop torch
Reply:I have a 5/8 thick top about that size and all I did was round the corners, left the mill scale on. I just clamp the ground anywhere on the edge and weld, no problems. This is only used for my home shop.MillerMatic 212, Lincoln Precision TIG 225, Hypertherm 45XP
Reply:PaticusTable-Break'in is one of my favorite diatribes.http://weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread.php...le++never+soapPost #17.Opus