Types & Functions of Welding
Welding is the fabrication process that joins materials, usually metals, by causing fusion. Fusion welding is a process that uses heat to join or fuse two or more materials by heating them to melting point.
Highly skilled, coded welders are essential as it is a skilled task where precautions are required throughout. There are different types of welding, used for various jobs in the industry, so let’s find out what they are.
MIG Welding
MIG Welding is a popular choice for beginners looking to learn, DIY enthusiasts and those with an interest in welding for hobby. It is perfect for the above as the equipment is cheaper than that of other types of welding therefore the initial investment is more affordable.
MIG welding actually incorporates two different types of welding – the first uses a bare wire and the second flux core. Bare wire MIG welding can be used to join thin pieces of metal together, while flux core MIG welding is mainly used outdoors as it does not require a flow meter or gas supply.
TIG Welding
TIG welding is by far one of the most difficult types of welding to learn; however, its extreme versatility makes it worthwhile. Two hands are required for this type of welding – one will feed the rod and the other one will hold a TIG torch. This torch creates heat and arc, which are both used to weld most conventional metals, including nickel alloys, copper alloys, steel, titanium, aluminium and cobalt.
Plasma Arc Welding
This type of welding is very similar in technique to TIG welding; however, the electrode is recessed and the ionising gases inside the arc are used to create heat. Due to its precision in technique, it is commonly used in aerospace applications where metal thickness is 0.015 of an inch. For example, it would be used on an air swal or engine blade where precision is essential.
Stick Welding
Stick Welding is also known as Arc welding and it uses a stick electrode welding rod. It is one of the oldest types and it is harder to master than MIG. However, stick welding equipment is fairly cheap to purchase, if you wanted to give it a try.
Gas Welding
Gas welding kits require oxygen and acetylene and are very portable, sometimes used to weld bits of car exhaust back together. However, this technique is rarely used anymore and has been superseded by TIG welding.
C E Bennett & Sons have a wealth of experience in handling all types of fabrication across a range of materials including; stainless steel, carbon steel and exotic metals. Our welders are dual-certified to both BS EN 287-1 2011 and ASME IX, providing assured quality and confidence to our clients.
If you are in need of a fabrication service, have any questions or want to chat with our team please get in touch today: https://www.cebennettandsons.co.uk/contact/