In Need of Welding Services? What to Know About Process Types
Welding has many uses in residential, farm and commercial, or industrial settings. From large machinery to small metal objects, welding can be used to make repairs to original metal surfaces or fabricate new ones. If you are in need of welding services, the following information can help you better understand the different types of welding so that you can select the one best suited for your needs.
MIG welding
The most common type of welding is referred to as metal inert gas (MIG) welding. Sometimes call arc welding, MIG welding is widely used in industrial settings, such as in the manufacturing of automobiles and appliances. MIG welding is also commonly used in the construction industry. MIG welding uses a electrode made of a special continuous wire along with the inert gas with a welding gun to create a strong bond between the metal surfaces.
TIG welding
Like MIG welding, tungsten inert gas, or (TIG) welding uses an electric arc. However, instead of an electrode made of wire, TIG welders use one made of tungsten, one of the strongest known metals. TIG welding is chosen for applications where the level of stress placed on the fabricated metal will be extreme, such as in the building of air and spacecraft. Tungsten inert gas welding is also widely chosen by farmers and heavy equipment operators to repair large machinery.
Stick welding
When more portable welding needs arise, a process called stick welding is typically chosen. The process of stick welding involves a special electrode, or stick, of metal that melts when subjected to the heat of the burning gas produced by the welder.
The stick is formulated with a protective coating that melts to provide a shield against oxygen and other gases that may be present in the environment where the welding is being done. The core of the stick is formed of metal that melts easily to fill cracks and seams on some types of metal for repair or fabrication purposes.
Flux-cored welding
Similar to the MIG welding process, flux-cored welding is used often in outdoor industrial settings. Using both a continuous wire feed and electrical power, flux-cored welders use an electrode that includes a flux-filled inner tube. During the welding process, the melting flux provides protection against rain and other weather elements. Flux-cored welding is widely used for applications where very thick metal surfaces must be bonded together.
Reach out to a welding service to learn about which type of welding is the right fit for your situation.