Arc Welding - Introduction and Fundamentals
Arc Welding - Introduction and Fundamentals
By Ryan Saucier
Welding Processes
SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding) GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding) GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding) Oxygen/ Fuel Welding
SMAW
Also referred to as Stick Welding Used for everything from pipeline welding, farm repair and complex fabrication. Uses a stick shaped electrode. Can weld: steel, cast iron, stainless steel, etc. Can also hardface with correct electrode.
GMAW
Also referred to as MIG welding Uses a shield gas and a continuous wire electrode Used for all types of fabrication Great for thin metals up to Excellent speed of deposition Used for metals such as: steel, aluminum and stainless steel.
GMAW Welds
GTAW
Also referred to as TIG Welding
Uses a shield gas, a non-consumable tungsten electrode and a hand fed filler rod
Excellent for welding thin metals, pipeline welding and exotic metals Highly skilled labor needed for this process
Welds can be made with or without filler metal Precise control of welding variables (heat) Free of spatter Low distortion
AC Welding Machine
Most common type found in homes, farms, etc. Good for farm repairs, light jobs. Low cost
DC Welding Machines
Often generator type machines Diesel or gasoline engine driven Portable Expensive
AC/DC Welders
Can weld in AC or DC polarity Less expensive than DC machine Quieter than DC machine