September 7, 2024

Welding Basics: What Are The Most Common Welding Techniques?

Arc welding (or stick welding)

Since the Middle Ages, the process of welding — or joining two objects (usually metals) through subjecting them to heat and pressure — has been brought an immense amount of benefits to different industries. From infrastructure to transportation to aeronautics, its range of application is wide and diverse.

Nonetheless, this technique isn’t as simple as you think it can be. When you visit a welding repair shop, you’d notice that there are different types of welding equipment, each catering to a particular set of materials they can work on and capable of employing a specific kind of welding technique.

In this article, we’re giving you a brief rundown of four of the most common welding techniques used in the modern time.

Gas Metal Arc Welding or Metal Inert Gas

This is the welding process that welding novices are familiar with. Easiest to learn, MIG welding is time-efficient and creates relatively cleaner welds. This is most commonly used for welding thick sections. Nonetheless, as it needs a constant supply of shielding gas, it is challenging to be performed outdoors.

Metals: aluminum alloys, steel, and stainless steel, silicon bronze

Gas Tungsten Arc Welding or Tungsten Inert Gas

If you talk with folks at a welding repair shop, they’d say that TIG welding is best suitable for projects that need precise and top-quality welds. It also produces no slag and is compatible with thin metals. If you’re also aiming for aesthetically pleasing weld beads, this process can help you achieve a seamless look. It comes to no surprise why this is the hardest welding process to learn. However, keep in mind that this method is relatively more time-consuming.

Metals: aluminum alloys, steel, and stainless steel, brass, copper, titanium, magnesium

Flux-Cored Arc Welding

Working on a rusted material? This automatic welding process is the most appropriate to use. It is also reliable for welding the thick sections of the item you’re working on. A welding machine built for this process is available to be used with or without gas. Many companies use this technique when constructing a building or any other infrastructure.

Metals: aluminum alloys, steel and stainless steel

Manual Metal Arc Welding

Also referred to as stick welding, this technique was first introduced in the 1920s.

Most suitable for outdoor use, this is also the most sought-after welding process if you want a quick repair. It can be easily set up and be easily learned by beginners. Known for its versatility, it can also be used in mobile welding services.

Metals: cast iron, steel, and stainless steel

An Important Note

If you consult with a welding repair shop owner or worker, you’d know that there is not one single welding technique that can suit all your needs and demands. When choosing which technique you should best use, it’s important to take into account these considerations:

The metals and other materials you are working with

The thickness of the metals and materials

The size and specs of the project

The site where you will be welding

The overall budget you will be allotted for the project

It’s advisable to talk with a professional to help you decide which technique will best fit your project.

Are you looking for a welding repair shop that can do top quality work? Contact us today at KLK Welding, one of the top welding companies today.

About The Author