WELDING

S I M O N A Z Z I R E M O

Category
- Welding
READING TIME

8 minutes read

Methods of joining components or sheets

There are different welding methods for joining various components or sheets. The choice of method depends on the type of metal, the end goal and the subsequent processing.

Electric Arc Welding

(SMAW – Shielded Metal Arc Welding o MMA – Manual Metal Arc Welding)

Electric arc welding is a technique that uses an electric arc to generate the heat necessary to melt the metals to be joined, thus creating a solid joint. This arc is formed between an electrode and the workpiece. The electrode, which may or may not be coated, can be consumed during welding or be non-consumable, as is the case with the tungsten electrode used in TIG welding.

Here are the two main variants of electric arc welding.

TIG welding

(GTAW – Gas Tungsten Arc Welding)

TIG welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to create the electric arc necessary for melting metals. During the process, an inert gas such as argon or helium protects the welding area from the surrounding environment, preventing oxidation of the molten material and ensuring the quality of the joint. This method is highly valued for its precision, ability to produce clean, high-quality welds, and is suitable for a wide variety of metals.

MIG welding

(GMAW – Gas Metal Arc Welding o MIG – Metal Inert Gas Welding)

This welding method employs an electric arc to join metals, using a consumable electrode that also serves as a filler material. The process is supported by an inert gas, such as argon or a gas mixture, which protects the welding area from oxidation and external contaminants.

Spot Welding or Electric Spot Welding

(Spot Welding)

Electric spot welding joins two sheets by applying a high current for a short time between two electrodes placed on either side of the sheet, creating welding spots. It is a technique known for its speed and precision, capable of producing clean joints without the addition of filler material, and is ideal for joining thin materials without the need for further processing.

Metal welding: how to join different materials

In carpentry, the choice of welding technique depends on the type of metal to be processed.

Stainless steel welding

Aluminium welding

General Welding Advice

Correct material preparation is essential for all welding techniques. Cleaning the surfaces of oxides, dirt and grease is essential for quality welds. In addition, choosing the right electrode, wire or filler material according to the metal and technique used is equally important.