Types of welding processes used by welders
In order to fuse metals together, a professional welder has to rely on good welding equipments. Welders have a wide variety of welding equipment they can use these days. No single type is suitable for all your welding applications. Each has a unique area of application.
When dealing with a welder, you need to have an idea of the type of welding process they will use, its capabilities and advantages. This helps determine how suitable the welder you hire is for the job at hand. However, professional welders apply different welding processes depending on the task at hand. Here is an objective, practical and informative list of all the main types of welding processes welders use.
Stick Welding
For years, stick welding (also known as arc welding) has been one of the most popular welding methods welders use. In this process, a welder makes use of an electric current flowing through the gap between the welding stick and the bond producing heat, which melts the welding electrode to create a metal bond. This is ideal for most available alloys and joints. It is also ideal for both indoors and outdoors and results in an effective bond even on rusty and dirty metal surfaces.
Metal Inert Gas Welding
Metal inert gas welding (MIG), also known as gas metal arc welding (GMAW), is similar to arc welding. Unlike arc welding, the welder uses a special welding gun that also supplies a shielding gas to the weld. This gas help protects the weld from any contaminants in the air. The result is a high strength weld with a much better appearance and requires minimal cleaning afterwards. Welders prefer MIG Welding because it works well on both thin and thick metal plates.
Flux Core Arc Welding
This type of welding is very similar to a MIG welding; the only difference is, the welder uses a flux-cored wire instead. The flux shields the arc from contaminants in the air. It also simplifies the process and is effective especially for outdoor work in windy conditions and on dirty surfaces.
Tungsten Inert Gas Welding
Tungsten inert gas welding also shares the same working principle with all the other arc welding types. However, the welder uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode, which is not consumed in the process. In addition, the welding gun used also supplies a gas, usually argon, which helps shield against atmospheric contaminants. Welders use TIG welding for autogenous welds. These special welds do not require a welder to add filler materials in the bond. TIG welding is ideal for thin sections of stainless steel, non-ferrous metals like magnesium, aluminium and copper alloys. They also allow welders greater control over the weld.