Oxyfuel welding (OFW) is a widely used process in manufacturing and construction. This method of welding uses an oxygen and fuel gas combination to provide a high-temperature flame perfect for welding various metals.
Oxyfuel welding has been around since 1890, and is still an effective, reliable and widely used welding technique today. In fact, it is estimated that 80% of the world’s industrial welding is done with oxyfuel technology – that’s nearly 1 million tonnes of weld metal a year! If you are looking for a reliable, efficient, and versatile welding process, oxyfuel welding is the way to go!
Let’s take a look at what makes oxyfuel welding one of the top welding processes.
What is Oxy Fuel Welding?
Oxy fuel welding, also referred to as oxyacetylene welding or gas welding, is a type of welding that utilizes oxygen and fuel gas to join metals together. It is the most popular and basic of all welding processes.It is often used for welding mild steel and many types of aluminum.
History of Oxy Fuel Welding
Oxy fuel welding was first commercialized around 1903, and has been used in various industrial applications from auto body repair to high strength steel welding.It was popularized during World War II where it was used extensively for welding damaged components. This type of welding is easy to learn, relatively portable, requires minimal equipment and is cost effective to use.
Equipment and Materials
Oxy fuel welding requires basic equipment and materials, which include:- An oxygen cylinder and a fuel gas cylinder, such as acetylene.
- An oxygen and fuel gas regulator
- Welding torch
- Welding rods
- Welding face mask
Process
Oxy fuel welding is a simple and straightforward process. The welding process involves heating and melting the base metal, then adding a filler metal to create a strong bond between two materials.The oxygen regulator is first attached to the oxygen cylinder. Then a welding torch is connected to the regulator.
The fuel gas regulator is then attached to a fuel gas cylinder, such as propane or acetylene. The welding torch is then connected to the fuel gas regulator. Once all connections are made, the regulators and torch are then adjusted to the required pressures.
Once all connections have been made and the pressure is set, the welding process can begin. The torch is positioned at an angle, and the flame is ignited. The base metal is heated until it is melting. Then the filler rod is added at the same angle. As the filler rod melts into the base metal, the torch can be moved to form the desired shape.