Fun fact: over half of all man-made products require some form of welding at some point in their manufacturing process. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that there’s great demand for welders. With so many different applications of welding, it also shouldn’t come as a surprise that there is a variety of different welding methods. Considering welding as a career? Read on to learn more about some of the different types of welding.
Different Welding Methods Compared
There are various types of welding processes that are based on the kind of material used, the source of energy, and where you wish to apply it. Some common types include:
TIG welding (Tungsten Inert Gas)
TIG welding is renowned for its precision and versatility. This technique uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to create the arc, and filler material is optional, depending on the project. A TIG torch produces heat, while an inert gas such as argon, shields the weld area. TIG welding is ideal for delicate tasks like bike frames or aerospace components.
MIG welding (Metal Inert Gas)
MIG welding, or Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), is one of the most commonly used welding methods due to its simplicity and efficiency. It employs a continuously fed wire electrode and a shielding gas to protect the weld area from contamination. MIG welding is ideal for various applications, including construction and automotive manufacturing, where speed and ease of use are crucial.
Flux-cored arc welding (FCAW)
FCAW is closely related to MIG welding, using a wire electrode filled with flux to shield the weld. This process is highly effective for outdoor welding or environments with wind interference, as it doesn’t rely solely on shielding gas. FCAW is commonly used for shipbuilding, pipeline construction, and heavy repair work due to its adaptability and speed.
Shielded metal arc welding (SMAW)
SMAW, also known as stick welding, is a manual process that uses a flux-coated electrode to create an arc between the stick and the metals. The flux generates a shielding gas to prevent contamination, making it a versatile choice for welding various materials, including steel and cast iron. SMAW is widely used in industrial fabrication and construction.
Plasma arc welding
This high-precision method is often employed in aerospace industries for thin metals. It is similar to TIG welding but uses ionized gases within a recessed electrode to generate intense heat. Plasma arc welding is ideal for applications demanding accuracy, such as engine blades.
Gas welding
Gas welding is also referred to as oxy-fuel welding. It leverages oxygen and fuel gases like acetylene to create heat. While this type of welding has become less common, it still has a place because of its portability and ability to weld ferrous and non-ferrous metals. It is also the most preferred method for repairing car exhaust systems.
Enroll in IMBC and Start Your Welding Career
The Institute of Medical and Business Careers (IMBC) offers a comprehensive welding technology program to help you gain the knowledge and hands-on experience you need to thrive in a career as a welder. Our program combines classroom instruction and practical lab training to help you operate advanced welding equipment, interpret blueprints, and apply various welding techniques.
IMBC prepares you for certification exams recognized by the industry, enhancing your employability and opening doors to exciting opportunities in construction, manufacturing, automotive, and more. Enroll in IMBC today and get started on this exciting career path.