Learn the Methods That a Professional Welder Uses
Welding is a dangerous task that should only be left to the professionals. However, that does not mean that you cannot definitely try out welding by yourself and see if you have what it takes to do repairs and fabrication. If you are a DIY enthusiast and you want to repair things in your home by yourself, you definitely might want to add a welding machine to your workshop. When you do decide to buy one, you might be showered with a lot of welding machines that have different specifications that you do not even understand. Do not worry though because here are some common methods that a professional welder uses that will also help you better understand more about welding machines:
Shielded Metal Arc Welding
Most commonly known as SMAW or stick welding, this is the most basic welding method that you can use to do repairs. This is also the easiest to learn or perform. For SMAW welding machines, they usually come in two different types, which are the AC and the DC welding machines. When welding, an electric current sends power to the welding rod and gives it enough heat to melt and fuse metal. Depending on the type of welding that you are going to perform, the type of welding rod that is used, and the surface that you are going to weld, you will need either an AC or a DC welding machine. Usually, it is noted in the packaging of a welding rod which current you should use while welding, as well as the amperage level that is required.
Gas Welding
Gas welding comes in two forms; Oxy-acetylene welding and gas tungsten metal arc welding (GTAW). These welding methods required both a welding machine and a gas tank. These welding processes are best used for thin, sheet metal. A professional welder also uses these methods to fuse two pieces of stainless steel or aluminum together. If the majority of your welding work requires you to do welding on thin metals, then you might need to use gas welding. However, there is a major disadvantage when it comes to using gas welding. For one, it can be expensive because you need to purchase both the welding machine and the gas tank. Also, the materials needed for gas welding are usually more expensive compared to the standard welding rods.
If these are too complicated for you and you just want to have something repaired in your home and welding is required, you might as well call Jaime's Mobile Welding Services at (951) 228-0798 and have me handle the repair work for you. I am a trusted welder that is based in Riverside, CA.