Stainless steel is one of the most popular metals used in welding because of its resistance to corrosion, strength, and toughness. This technique is commonly used among metal fabrication professionals, as it allows them to bond metals together seamlessly, precisely, and efficiently. There are many welding styles that professionals use to acquire desired results. Below is a guide of the three most common techniques. 

3 Welding Styles for Stainless Steel

1. Gas Metal Arc Welding

Sometimes referred to as MIG welding, the gas metal arc method is where the source of heat is an arc formed between the stainless steel and a consumable metal electrode fueled by an externally supplies gaseous shield. Typically, the gas used to power the machine with this style is inert, such as argon or helium, which provides a high-speed, economical welding style.

2. Gas Tungsten Arc Welding

Another popular method for stainless steel is gas tungsten arc welding, or GTAW. This technique utilizes a column of plasma that is crafted using highly ionized gas and metal vapors, which conducts energy across the arc with a constant-current power supply. The result is a weld with much more strength and quality.

3. Shielded Metal Arc Welding

Finally, shielded metal arc welding, or SMAW, is also widely used in custom metal work involving stainless steel. One of the oldest welding methods, it’s so widely used partly because it provides a smooth arc with uniform metal transfer characteristics and an overall ease of operation. It is also distinct from many other forms because it has a physical presence of the covering that surrounds the core wire of the consumable electrode.

 

 

Using the right welding tools makes working with stainless steel much more straightforward, and if your tools break down, the experts at Alaska Tool Company in Fairbanks, AK can help. As the area’s leading heavy machinery repair company, their team can provide quick and reliable repairs to any machinery that has broken down. With over 40 years of experience, you can trust they’ll get the job done right the first time. Schedule a free quote by calling (907) 479-5354 or learn more online.