Arc Welding: What Are the Types and Benefits?

Arc welding uses direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC) to dissolve and join one metal to another. Many metals react to elements in the air. A protective gas or slag layer minimizes contact with your workpiece with arc welding. As a result, when your piece cools, you get a solid bond. Read on to learn more about the types and benefits of arc welding.

Types of Arc Welding

Arc welding gets broken down into different categories based on procedures and operational conditions. Find examples of arc welding discussed below.

Carbon Arc Welding (CAW)

An electric work between a non-consumable carbon electrode and your workpiece joins the metals in CAW. The main purpose of the CAW process is to create a strong bond between the metals. High efficiency and the speed with which the metals melt are the top benefits you gain from CAW.

Metals that you can melt with the CAW process include copper, aluminum, brass, and bronze.

You can either use or avoid flux with the CAW process. For example, use a powder or paste flux to protect your workpiece from the oxidation of ferrous metals. On the flip side, you do not need the flux when you work on non-ferrous metals because the metals are not susceptible to rust.

Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)

SMAW is the most popular method whereby you let the coated electrode tip touch your weld area and then withdraw to maintain the arc. The heat melts the metal, tip, and coat, so your weld becomes perfect when the alloy solidifies. Also, the coat forms a protective layer of gas and slag to keep your work price safe from harsh weather conditions.

With SMAW, you can bind ferrous and non-ferrous metal to increase strength. The technique benefits you more if you work in construction and pipeline works.

Submerged Arc Welding (SAW)

In submerged arc welding, an arc forms between a consumable wire or electrode and your workpiece. The process creates a protective flux that shields your metal, stops ultraviolet, and prevents sparks. In addition, the flux shields the weld zone from visibility.

SAW is commonly used to produce high-quality plate steel welds and high-speed sheets. The process boasts of high speed, less distortion, and little or no smoke. So if you specialize in repair, maintenance, or build-up work, consider SAW.

Benefits of Arc Welding

From strength to high speed and eco-friendliness, you have a lot to gain from arc welding processes. Consider the following benefits of arc welding.

Less Distortion

Your workpiece should be perfect, so you should avoid distortion. Arc welding requires a high heat concentration and happens at high speed. As a result, the chances of a distorted weld are significantly reduced.

Low Cost

The cost of equipment you need for arc welds is affordable. The gear for arc welds too is moderate, and the cycle requires less hardware due to the lack of gas. What's more, your equipment is manageable and low maintenance.

Works in Any Environment

Many arc processes use a shielding gas, so you can only work in one place. However, arc welding does not need shield gas, so you can work at any time regardless of weather conditions. Also, the versatility of the processes allows you to perform different types of welds, such as arc studs and plasma arc welding.

Conclusion

Arc welding guarantees high efficiency, productivity, and quality finish. If you still have any questions about the welding information discussed above, do not hesitate to contact Sam's Welding Inc. We guarantee that you will receive professional guidance and quality services for all of your welding projects.