Welding joins metals by melting and using filler. It can use gas, electric arc, laser or ultrasound. Modern methods include arc, gas, resistance and energy beam welding. Welding is automated and used in unusual conditions like underwater and in space.
Welding is the process of joining metals by melting parts together and then using filler to form a joint. It can be done using different energy sources, from gas flame or electric arc to laser or ultrasound.
Until the early 20th century, welding was done using a process known as forge welding, which involves heating the pieces to be bonded together and then hammering them together. With the advent of electricity, the process became easier and faster and played an important role in the industrial scene during World War I and World War II. There are several welding processes in use in modern times:
Arc welding is done by the use of an electric current and can be done using inexpensive equipment.
Gas welding is used extensively for repair work, especially in all things pipe and tube. It is common in the jewelry industry as well as for joining plastics and other materials that cannot withstand higher temperatures.
Resistance welding involves the use of additional plates to embed the pieces to be welded together. It is the most environmentally friendly method of all, but requires expensive equipment that cannot be used in all situations
Energy beam welding, also known as laser beam welding, is one of the more modern techniques used. This method is fast and accurate, but the high cost of the equipment makes it prohibitively expensive for many industries.
Welding cannot be done with all types of metals, as some materials, such as stainless steel, are prone to cracking and distortion when overheated. Alloys are particularly problematic, as it is difficult to know the exact chemical composition of the metal. Welding has become highly automated over the past decade and the use of robots is now commonplace in some industries, such as automotive manufacturing plants.
It is possible to weld objects in unusual conditions, even underwater and in space. Underwater welding is used extensively in pipeline and ship repair, while welding performed in space is currently being researched as a possible way to piece space stations and other structures together.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
