Welding is generally the process of joining two pieces of metal together. It is commissioned for small projects like tool repair, as well as massive architectural details like landing rails and even stairs. However, there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to welding technique. When choosing welding service in Phoenix, AZ, you must find a shop that offers skills in various types of welding to ensure they use the right service for your project. Here are the four types of welding services available for your construction, art and other industrial projects:
- Shielded metal arc welding: Often referred to as stick welding, this is the most commonly requested method of welding. Welders create a lightning-bolt stream that runs between the welding rod and the metal being welded. It uses a consumable electrode that melts the metal and creates the weld. This method is most common with steel fabrication, construction, pipeline work and heavy equipment repair. When people order welding services, this is likely the first type they imagine, as it is used for most projects.
- Gas metal arc welding: This is often chosen over other methods for its portability. The inert gas used for this type can be carried in a portable welder, making it a favorite for the traveling welder who must attend to multiple construction sites. This method uses a welding gun with an electrode fed through a solid wire. Rather than using flux to create the stream, the welder uses an inert gas, which is either carbon dioxide or a carbon dioxide-argon mix. Besides being portable and easily carried to different work sites, this method also creates fewer fumes that shielded metal arc welding, making it an excellent indoor option.
- Flux cored arc welding: Flux cored arc welding offers the speed of metal arc welding with the efficiency of stick welding. Like the first, it offers a continuously fed wire that conducts current through the welding gun. However, the wire has a flux core like stick welding, but no need for an inert gas. This is often the choice when a project requires multiple options due to challenging metal content or a new project. If a welder reports to a job site with few details on a project, the tools for flux cored arc welding will likely accompany them.
- Gas tungsten arc welding: Unlike other types of welding listed here, this one does not require a consumable electrode. It uses an external rod to melt metal and forge a weld. While this is often the strongest option, which is necessary for any project ending in a weight-bearing product (like a landing), it also requires the highest skill. Gas tungsten is also popular for decorative projects, as it often creates clean welds that are barely perceptible. This makes it a favorite for projects that must be both durable and attractive.
Metal Pro, Inc. offers a variety of welding services in Phoenix, AZ and the skill to finish your project correctly the first time. Whether you require welding for construction or decorative signs, we can find the best solution for you. Contact us today to discuss your metal fabrication project.