A master welder can strike an arc blindfolded, with one hand, upside down, in a snowstorm. ~Steven Robert Farnsworth
What is welding?
Welding is a fabrication process that uses high temperatures and filler material (pool of molten material) to melt and fuse parts together. Welding causes the metallic structures of the two pieces to join together and become one. As opposed to soldering and brazing which simply bonds two pieces together.
What industries use welding?
- Automobile manufacturing
- Ships
- Aircrafts
- Railroads and trains
- Theme parks
- Infrastructure - bridges, high-rise buildings, dams, oil pipelines, etc...
Can you think of any other industries that may use welding?
Common types of welding include...
MIG Welding - Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)
MIG welding is useful because you can use it to weld many different types of metals: carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, magnesium, copper, nickel, silicon bronze and other alloys.
Want to learn more? Check out this article 11 Steps to MIG welding with pictures
TIG Welding - Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW)
TIG welding allows for precision and control which enables the welder to produce a more stylish or finished appearance. TIG works especially well when welding small, thin metals, like aluminum. Common uses for TIG are DIY projects like making a bicycle, tools, carts, furniture, shelving, and jewelry repair.
Want to learn more? Check out this article 11 Steps to TIG Welding with Pictures
Stick Welding - Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)
Stick welding is primarily used for heavy-duty iron and steel welds but it can also be used to weld other metals such as aluminum. It has wide application in repair and maintenance industries and in the construction of heavy steel and iron structures.
Want to learn more? Check out this article Basics of Stick Welding – Do’s and Don’ts – Tips for Beginners
Flux Welding - Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)
FCAW is used with cast iron, stainless steel, carbon steel, high-nickel alloys, and low-alloy steels. Industries that commonly use FCAW are construction, heavy equipment repair, structural steel erection, shipbuilding, etc..
More Types of Welding
To learn more about each of these click on the links to watch short videos.
An interesting twist on welding...
Would you consider underwater welding as a career? Why or why not?
Explore the K12 Career Education Navigator
The K12 Career Technical Education (CTE) Navigator helps you explore high school courses and career pathways offered across San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. Browse by industry sector, county, school district, and more to find options that match your interests and career goals and see how these pathways can prepare you for college, certifications, apprenticeships, or the workforce.
Credits:
Created with images by emirkrasnic - "welding iron worker" • jarmoluk - "welding welder work" • Benfe - "safety at work work weld" • natsan - "welding man helmet" • JonKline - "welder welding industry" • Zaglite - "welding industry steel" • Unknown - "Free stock photo of sparks, welding"