3 Welding Techniques and When to Use Them
Posted on: 4 March 2020
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When you need to combine two or more pieces of metal together, chances are you will use welding to get the job done. There are many different welding techniques that can be used when working with metal. Matching the right technique with the needs of your project can help ensure that your welds withstand the test of time.
1. Arc Welding
Arc welding is one of the oldest techniques used by experienced welders. The process of arc welding involves the use of a consumable electrode that gives off an electric current. When the current comes into contact with the materials being welded, an electric arc produces a high level of heat. The heat melts the electrode, which fills the gap between the two pieces of metal being joined. Arc welding is a great option for use on projects where the metal pieces you are joining are rusty or thick.
2. MIG Welding
Another common welding process used today is MIG welding. MIG welding also uses a consumable electrode, but this electrode is fed continuously through a specialized gun. An external gas shields the materials being welded against environmental contaminants, which makes MIG welding fast and easy. MIG welding techniques are easy to learn, so you can find a welder that can complete the job without too many complications. You can effectively use MIG welding when you are working with alloys, when you are in an enclosed space and can't produce a high volume of welding fumes, or you are welding thin pieces of metal to one another.
3. TIG Welding
When you need a precise and clean weld, TIG welding techniques should be utilized. TIG welding does not use a consumable electrode. Instead, the base metals being joined are melted together to create an autogenous weld seam. No splatter is produced when TIG welding, but this process only works on metals that are clean and free from corrosion. It takes a high level of skill and training to successfully complete any TIG welding project. You will need to locate a welder with the knowledge required to create the high-precision welds associated with TIG welding.
The many welding techniques being used by welders today make it easy to match the right weld with your metal project. Determine whether you need the rust-penetrating power of an arc weld, the speed and convenience of a MIG weld, or the precision of a TIG weld when planning metal projects in the future.