The Basic Types Of Welding

Welding is a very common practice in many industries because of the strength of the bonds that it can form. The construction, automobile, bicycle, and airplane industries all rely heavily on welding to complete their projects. There are three main types of welding, but there are subcategories for each type as well. The main categories are gas welding, arc welding, and laser welding.

Gas Welding

Gas welding works through the ignition of a reactive gas. The gas is fed to point in the welding machine where it is ignited. It creates a flame that burns incredibly hot, well over 5000 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat of the flame causes the metal surfaces to melt and fuse together. Because of the heat that the flame can reach, this type of welding is used for harder alloys. This type of welding is not as precise as other methods, and tends to leave larger welding marks on your project.

Arc Welding

Arc welding functions by created an arc between the two surfaces that you want to fuse. Some type of electrode is then placed closely to the metals. As the electrode is moved away from the working surface, an arc forms that heats the metal surfaces and causes them to fuse together. Arc welding requires the use of gas shielding for a proper weld. The most common gases used are carbon dioxide, oxygen, helium, and argon. During the welding process, the shield that is formed protects the weld site from outside impurities, such as water vapor, that could cause the weld to weaken and break.

There are many different types of arc welding, but some of the most common are metal inert gas welding, tungsten inert gas welding, and flux cored arc welding. These welding techniques are common because they are easy to learn and practice with. The main difference between these three types of arc welding is the choice of electrode. Metal inert gas welding uses a thin wire that is heated and used up as it is fed through a welding instrument. Tungsten inert gas welding uses a tungsten electrode that is not consumed during the welding process. Flux cored arc welding also uses a consumable electrode, but it has a flux core that helps to protect the weld site during the process.

Laser Welding

Laser welding functions in a very similar way to gas welding. When the two pieces of metal are lined up how you want them, a high-powered beam of light is fired at the seam. The laser melts the edges of the metal which allows them to come together and create a strong connection.

For more information on commercial welding, contact a welder.

Share