Welding is a fabrication
process where two or more pieces of metal are fused together using heat and pressure. This
process is considered the most efficient and economical way to join materials permanently.
Today, skilled professionals can weld metal manually or with automation tools which speed up the
process. Learn more about the different types of welding processes and what tools are commonly
used by welders.
Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)
With this type of welding, the welder uses a manual process of stick welding. An electric
current creates an arc between the stick and the metals that need to be joined. SMAW is most
commonly used when constructing steel structures, as well as in industrial fabrication to
weld
steel and iron. Welders that follow this process must have the skill to weld to a level that
passes a destructive type of bend test.
Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)
Also known as Metal Inert Gas (MIG), this type of welding process relies on a consumable
electrode. GMAW requires a shielding gas and wire electrode which heats the metals that
require
joining. This process requires a constant direct-current power source and voltage. The GMAW
welding process uses several methods of metal transfer, including globular transfer,
short-circuiting, spray transfer, and pulsed spray.
Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)
FCAW was created as an alternative to shield welding. Due to its portability and high
welding
speed, this semi-automatic arc welding is often used in construction projects. Its
versatility
and many operating angles and voltage levels also allow FCAW to be used in a wide range of
welding projects. This type of welding process is best used outdoors or with industrial
ventilation hoods because of the significant fumes and smoke created.
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW)
The most common form of this method involves welding together thick sections of stainless
steel
or non-ferrous metals. GTAW is an arc-welding process that produces a weld using a fixed
consumable tungsten electrode. Due to the complexity of gas metal arc welding, it is often
more
time-consuming than alternative welding processes like Stick, MIG, or Flux Cored Arc
Welding.
Common Tools Used in Welding
Welding is a challenging skill to master and requires access to the right tools and
equipment.
Here’s a look at some of the most common tools used in welding:
Welding Helmet – Also known as hoods, welding helmets are designed to protect
your
face, neck, and eyes from sparks, flash burns, and infrared and ultraviolet rays.
Welding Jacket – A welding jacket is constructed from fire-resistant materials to
protect welders from metal splatter and high heat.
Welding Gloves – Thick welding gloves are essential to protect the welder’s hands
from high heat. There are