Welding of Common Metals
Welding is a fabrication process that joins two or more pieces of metal together by heating and melting the pieces, and then pressing them together. It is used to join pieces of metal together that could not be joined traditionally by easier methods such as riveting or bolting. Welding is used in many applications, from automotive repair and construction to the manufacture of medical and aerospace components.
There are many different types of welding processes, ranging from arc welding to laser welding. The process chosen to join two pieces of metal together depends on the type of metal being welded, thickness of the material, and the desired result. While some metals can be joined by any welding process, other metals require specific welding processes due to their properties.
Common metals that require welding include aluminum, steel, stainless steel, and cast iron. While each of these metals are relatively similar in composition and properties, they require different welding processes to achieve the desired results.
Aluminum:
Aluminum is a popular choice for welding due to its light weight and corrosion resistance. It is often used in aerospace and automotive applications, as well as structures and frames. Aluminum can be joined by both Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) processes, as well as by brazing and fusion welding.
Steel:
Steel is a popular welding material due to its strength and durability. It is commonly used in construction, automotive, and agricultural applications. Steel is usually welded using GMAW or GTAW processes. Different shielding gases are used to prevent surface oxidation.
Stainless Steel:
Stainless steel is a popular choice due to its high corrosion resistance and durability. It is commonly used in the fabrication of medical and kitchen equipment, as well as in buildings and ships. Stainless steel can be welded using GTAW, GMAW, and shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) processes.
Cast Iron:
Cast iron is a popular choice for welding due to its strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness. It is often used in the construction of industrial components, including pumps and valves. Cast iron can be welded using both fusion and fusion-and-filler welding processes.
Welding is an important process for joining common metals together. It is important to choose the correct welding process for the application, as well as to ensure that the materials are of proper quality and thickness. A welder should also be familiar with safety procedures in order to prevent accidents and injuries when carrying out welding.
