The general impression of the way metal is welded is that you simply light a torch and weld it together along the edge of the metal seam. Or they may think you can put the same torch through any kind of metal and cut through it, like in a safety cookie movie. But the reality is that professional welding actually involves some pretty extensive knowledge, and is somewhat of an art form that takes years of experience to master. Even so, if you want to learn, you can start with some simple techniques. Once you've mastered the basics and have a beginner's idea, you can move on to more complex skills that will take longer to master.
Safety measures
Always consider safety precautions first before starting any project. Equipment and supplies can be replaced; you cannot be replaced. You may think that getting burned is the worst thing that can happen in a welding accident. However, the bright light produced by the process can cause damage to your eyes. Some metal welding techniques use high voltage electricity to produce the weld, which always increases the likelihood of electrocution or death if you are careless. When you begin any welding project, be sure to wear a proper helmet to protect your eyes, head and hair. Don't forget protective gloves and clothing. Finally, be sure to read and follow all safety precautions written by the manufacturer of the specific metal welding equipment you are using.
Oxyacetylene welding (also known as oxyfuel welding)
This is the most familiar type of welding to the general public and is often casually described as "blowtorch". However, although oxyacetylene welding is the most common type, it is actually the least used technique by professionals. On the plus side, it is simpler and cheaper than other types of welding. However, oxyacetylene is now less common because it is less accurate, does not produce welds as cleanly as other methods, and can lead to weaker welds due to the slower cooling time involved compared to other welding techniques. Even so, if you are interested in learning how to weld metal, you may want to practice oxyacetylene welding in addition to other types of welding. This will be a handy skill to have because it is the best type to use for certain common welding projects, such as pipes or tubes, and when you must use welding equipment for repairs, bending and cutting.
Electric Arc Welding
The most common technique used today is "arc welding". If you are learning how to weld metal, then you definitely need to practice arc welding. Instead of using a gas torch, arc welding uses high voltage electricity to enter a piece of metal. In arc welding, a spark (or "arc") jumps from one piece of metal to another, creating enough heat to melt the metal and form a weld. In most cases, this process is more desirable because it is more accurate and produces a cleaner, stronger weld. Within the "arc welding" category, there are actually several different methods to choose from, depending on the type of metal welding job you need to do.
Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) is probably the best choice when you are making large welds or metal welds in unusual locations where rough welds are acceptable. With this method, current flows through an electrode rod (or "stick") that actually melts, producing a welded joint. On the other hand, MIG welding, also known as metal inert gas shielded welding or gas shielded metal arc welding (GMAW), may be better if you are involved in metal welding projects that require higher speeds. With this welding technique, you won't be using welding rods that must be constantly changed as they melt. Instead, you use equipment that sends power through the tip of the metal that does not melt and feeds another continuous wire into the tip that melts and forms the weld. tig (tungsten inert gas) welding is somewhat similar to MIG welding, but is better when working with thin materials that require a high quality weld where speed is not important. As you learn, you will also hear about other methods, such as flux cored arc welding (FCAW), submerged arc welding (SAW), plasma welding, and more. But don't worry too much about remembering all the various techniques. Just focus on one method at a time and feel comfortable knowing how to weld using that method before you learn anything new.
Other welding methods
Although you will focus primarily on arc welding and oxyacetylene welding when learning how to weld, you may have heard of other types and wondered what they are, such as resistance welding, energy beam welding and solid state welding. Now don't let it overwhelm you. Many of these welding methods are primarily used in large professional industrial applications and won't really affect you as you learn how to weld.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of the basic concepts that are important to you when learning how to weld. As you can see, while there are many methods, each with its own unique equipment, procedures and purpose, there are really only a few basic methods to remember and practice. To get started, start practicing with an inexpensive arc welding setup. Get yourself a machine and start experimenting on some scrap metal pieces (after reading all the instructions and taking all the safety precautions or courses). Figure out what works and what doesn't. You will soon start developing the style that works best for you. Also, get yourself some oxyacetylene equipment and try that type as well. With lots of practice, you will soon be a good novice and be able to master any common items you may encounter.
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