Welding Basics: 5 Most Important Things to Know If You Want to Weld Properly
There’s a unique beauty in being able to create things with your hands. All forms of art require both skill and passion, and one cannot be without the other. Welding, whether you view it as an art form or as a repair process, requires proper technique. It is easily one of the most used methods in production in the modern age. The production and repair of everything from cars, houses, gadgets, and even their components have, at one point or another, involved a form of welding. This method is so widely used across all types of industries, and it is even used as a means to create art. The utility of this process is exactly what makes it a great craft to learn.
But Before We Start, What Exactly Is Welding, and Why Should You Bother With It?
Welding is the process through which a strong bond is created between two metals by the use of extreme heat. The materials involved in welding are plentiful and, depending on what type of materials you’re buying, they can also be inexpensive. If all this sounds good to you, and you may already have an interest in learning how to weld, you first need to get these things sorted:
1 Safety Measures
Since you’re going to be dealing with extreme heat as well as intense light, you’re going to need to ensure that your body is protected from harm. Protective gear such as welding gloves and self-dimming welding masks are staples. It’s also important to ensure that your welding area is free from any flammables and is also properly ventilated because the fumes from welding can be harmful to your health.
2 Welding Types
There are three main types of welding, each of which has its advantages and drawbacks. The most commonly used welding type is stick welding, more properly referred to as Shielded Metal Arc Welding. This welding type gets its name from the stick electrode that is used to apply the heat to the metals that are intended to be welded together. It is also the welding type that beginners are most likely to use because it is much more forgiving, and it is alright to use even when working with rusty and dirty metal. It is used in manufacturing and repair and is far better suited for thicker metals.
3 Input Voltage
There are only two types of input voltages (230v and 110v). These determine the intensity of the heat of the welding tool. The lower voltage is sufficient for thinner metals, while the higher voltage will be required for penetrating thicker metals. However, there are welding machines that come equipped with a dual voltage system which allows users to switch between voltages. This helps beginners ease into different welding styles without having to sacrifice one for the other.
The Bottom Line
Welding is an incredibly useful skill, especially when you think about it in the context of modern society, where almost every piece of technology has a metal component. Having the skill to not only help in manufacturing parts but also repair them would benefit so many people. However, welding isn’t for everyone. This is why it’s essential to take note of these things before you even making an attempt.
