Stainless steel welding is one of the most common joints made on products today as they provide strength and a long-lasting seal that resists corrosion. Stainless steel welding comes in many forms, including acrylic, direct-current arc welding (DCAW), tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding, and shielded metal arc welding (SMAW). Understanding the differences between each form of stainless steel welding and their respective welding capabilities is essential when deciding which joint is the best fit for a given application.
Acrylic welding is a form of stainless steel welding that uses an acetylene or propylene torch to heat the steel to a molten state. Acrylic welding works best on thinner stainless steel materials and generally results in a higher quality weld than other forms of welding. It is important to note, however, that acrylic welding produces a very bright flame that can create a considerable heat build up in the surrounding area, making it important to be aware of the safety measures necessary when working with this welding technique.
Direct current arc welding (DCAW), also known as tandem arc welding, is a type of stainless steel welding that uses direct current to heat and join two pieces of stainless steel material. DCAW works best on thicker stainless steel materials, but the welds it produces tend to be weaker compared to those of acrylic welding. Many applications, such as building and repairing pressure vessels, boilers, and tanks, require the use of DCAW due to its strong welds.
Tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding is a variation of DCAW that uses a torch to heat the metal and create an arc on the stainless steel material. TIG welding is often thought of as a type of stainless steel welding because it can produce cleaner and more precise welds than the other types of welding. TIG welding is primarily used on thinner stainless steel materials, such as automotive and marine parts, as its precise welds are necessary for these applications.
Shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) is a form of stainless steel welding that uses an electrode to heat the metal to a molten state and allow the formation of a strong weld. SMAW is often used on thicker stainless steel parts when heavier welds are necessary, such as in the fabrication of construction projects.
When considering which form of stainless steel welding is best for a given application, the strength, smoothness, and precise welds should be taken into account. For example, TIG welding may be best for thin parts such as automotive and marine parts due to its precise welds, while DCAW is ideal for thicker materials, such as boilers and pressure vessels, as its strong welds are necessary for these applications.
No matter which type of stainless steel welding is used, it is important to ensure the welds are cleaned using the right methods and cleaning materials. The welds must also be inspected after they have been made to ensure the welds are free of imperfections. These steps help to guarantee the welds are as strong and as long-lasting as possible, ensuring the integrity and security of the stainless steel material.
