Welding is simpler than it seems. While the process can be complicated, the work itself stays the same: You melt two pieces of steel together and add some extra metal to strengthen the joint. After working with molten metals for long enough, you may master a number of unique techniques. Becoming a skilled welder takes practice, but the experts at Fairbanks, AK’s top machine shop, Alaska Tool Company, have been mastering the process for over 40 years. Here, they share their top techniques with you.

3 Interesting Welding Methods

1. Oxygen-Acetylene Welding

This technique is the most basic of the three and the one from which the others are derived. If you want to be a welder, learning the basics of the oxygen-acetylene method provides a solid foundation for mastering more complicated welds.

At the machine shop, you’ll notice the equipment needed: two large tanks—one for oxygen, one for acetylene—a regulator at the top of each, and hoses leading to the torch handle. You’ll need to adjust the line pressure on each regulator to achieve the perfect weld, which is where technique comes into play. The goal is to create a minuscule puddle of molten metal, which you’ll do using the torch.

After putting the welding rod into the puddle, it will melt, and both pieces will bond together. The key is establishing that perfect combination of pressure and heat to bond the pieces together tightly, achieving the ideal weld. With practice, you’ll quickly catch on, enabling you to try more difficult techniques. 

2. Arc Welding

While the goal is the same, arc welding has a distinct technique. The goal is to create an arc, which melts the work and bonds the pieces tightly together. Establishing an arc seems simple, but it requires practice. You’ll need to scratch the rod’s tip across the entire piece of work, moving it just as the spark starts to jump. Without the correct timing, your arc could end up misshapen or broken. Timing and rod placement are the keys to this technique; a solid arc will create a crackling sound that’s impossible to miss.

3. Mig Welding

While mig welding is considered the easiest to learn, it usually is taught later down the road, which means you’ll master it quickly. If you’ve already got into the swing of arc welding, the mig method will seem especially simple.

What makes this technique so simple? Wire is automatically fed out at a preset rate, with gas pumping out the end of the gun. The gas provides strong, high-quality welds that are difficult to achieve otherwise. All you need to do is set the wire feed-rate at the ideal pace for your project, and the technique will prove itself easy.  

When you need welding work, trust in the professionals at Alaska Tool Company. Providing custom work and repairs for a variety of industries, these experts keep area businesses running smoothly. Call (907) 479-5354 to request your free quote today!