Weld

Weld

A welder at work

Weld is a process of joining materials, usually metals or thermoplastics, by causing coalescence. This is often done by melting the workpieces and adding a filler material to form a pool of molten material (the weld pool) that cools to become a strong joint. Pressure may also be used in conjunction with heat, or by itself, to produce the weld. The process is typically used in manufacturing, construction, and automotive applications.

History

The history of welding dates back to the Bronze Age and Iron Age in Europe and the Middle East. The earliest examples of welding come from the Bronze Age. The ancient Egyptians also knew how to weld iron pieces together. During the Middle Ages, the art of blacksmithing was developed, and many items were produced by forge welding. The modern era of welding began in the 19th century with the invention of arc welding and oxy-fuel welding.

Types of Welding

There are several types of welding processes, including:

• Arc welding: Uses an electric arc to melt the work materials as well as filler material (if used).
• MIG welding (Metal Inert Gas): Uses a continuous wire feed as an electrode and an inert or semi-inert gas mixture to protect the weld from contamination.
• TIG welding (Tungsten Inert Gas): Uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to produce the weld.
• Stick welding (Shielded Metal Arc Welding): Uses a consumable electrode coated in flux to lay the weld.
• Oxy-fuel welding: Uses fuel gases and oxygen to weld and cut metals.
• Laser welding: Uses a laser beam to melt the materials being joined.
• Resistance welding: Uses the application of electric current and mechanical pressure to create a weld.

Applications

Welding is used in a variety of industries, including:

• Automotive industry
• Aerospace industry
• Construction
• Shipbuilding
• Railway industry
• Manufacturing

Safety

Welding can be dangerous and unhealthy if the proper precautions are not taken. The hazards include exposure to ultraviolet light, inhalation of toxic fumes, and burns. Proper safety equipment, such as welding helmets, gloves, and protective clothing, is essential. Ventilation and fume extraction systems are also important to minimize exposure to harmful fumes.

Related Pages

• Arc welding
• MIG welding
• TIG welding
• Oxy-fuel welding
• Laser welding
• Resistance welding
• Automotive industry
• Aerospace industry
• Construction
• Shipbuilding
• Railway industry
• Manufacturing

See Also

• Soldering
• Brazing
• Metalworking
• Fabrication (metal)