d to Know
There are several processes of welding metals using an arc. However, these arc welding processes are useful to understand, whether you are a beginner welder or an expert in metal working. Below, we delve deeper into the five basic welding processes you are expected to know.
Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)
Shielded metal arc welding or more commonly referred to as stick welding is among the most practical, portable and used welding processes. In this process he weld is deposited using a continuously fed consumable electrode with a flux coating. An electric arc is formed between the metal workpiece and the electrode, melting both of them and forming a pool of molten weld material that eventually solidifies and joins the two pieces of metal.
SMAW is easy to use and efficient therefore is preferred by many trainees. It is useful in welding different types of metals such as steel poles, iron and also aluminum. Owing to its versatility, it is used in construction activities and also repair works. Handheld semi-automatic arc welding which is influenced by the manual process of SMAW requires skill and a steady hand to enable clean and good quality weld edges and joints.
Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG)
The welding procedure where the welding pool is supplied a steady wire electrode by a welding gun that feeds the wire into the weld pool is called Gas Metal Arc welding or MIG welding. As the wire is depleted, the welding gun also emits an inert (argon or a blend of carbon dioxide and argon) gas that protects the weld from moisture and other contaminants in the atmosphere.
MIG welding is fast, easy, this is also known for its convenience. There’s a machine that does most of the positioning of this wire, so it’s less of a back-breaking job but acceptable for places that are mass-producing the same crochet track for a million times. This process is termed like automotive, construction and manufacturing industries because of its speed and clean strong welds. Only downside would be that equipment may be more expensive and more delicate as shielding gas is needed despite the weather conditions, especially if it is done outdoors.
Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)
Flux-Cored Arc Welding falls under the same class as MIG welding but it employs a wire electrode with flux in it. It can be divided into two categories: self shielded, which does not need any external gas and gas shielded, which needs external supply of gas. This provides better adaptability and can be performed in different settings including outside in a place where wind may interfere with the MIG welding.
FCAW is very good with thick materials and with heavy duty applications. It creates a robust and relatively deep weld which is less likely to crack. This procedure is more convenient than SMAW and produces good welds even in moderately dirty locations. The ability to perform all these tasks makes it a popular choice in construction, shipbuilding and repairing heavy equipment.
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG)
TIG welding, which stands for Tungsten Inert Gas welding, involves the use of a tungsten electrode that does not melt away. Like in MIG welding, it is necessary to protect the area needing welding with a shield gas, which is inert. In this procedure, the welder is able to add a filler metal, if necessary, which is done manually and at the discretion of the operator.
TIG welds are known to be clean and offer precision through the use of the welding process. It works great when welding small materials or any non-ferrous material like alloys of aluminum, magnesium, and copper. However, it takes time and practice to get the process right but the outcome is often worth the trouble. Due to the clean aesthetic, the process is often used in automotive and aerospace industries, as well as metal artwork.
Submerged Arc Welding (SAW)
There are two pictures SAW Explanation SAW is usually extended schematically over the rectangular weld profile section, and this picture explains how it is performed in two steps that are separated by the movement of welding interferometer. The weld is made by feeding in a continuous wire electrode that is engulfed in a blanket of granular flux. Submerged arc welding, when combined with various processes such as semi-automatic and automatic welding allows flexibility in the level of spatter or sparks produced which enhances the safety aspects of this reposition welding in the SAW process. Thick steel sheets and large-scale industrial applications such as shipbuilding, bridge construction and pressure vessels are all suited for SAW. The welds produced are strong, consistent and of high quality but this process does not suit vertical welding position.
Conclusion
Learning about these welding processes by Taizhou Levin Welding Equipment like SMAW, MIG, FCAW, TIG and SAW, a novice in the field of welding feels himself firmly on the ground. Each of the processes has respective advantages but suitable for a variety of applications and materials. These skills and techniques bring forward the potentials or opportunities that involve industrial work, commercial or creative metalworking. Select an optimal process based on your project requirements and you will acquire proper welding skills.
