Welding is one of the oldest forms of fabrication which is still used today. It’s an essential skill for many tradesman, and there are several styles or variants of welding that can be employed.
Out of all these welding methods, Primary Power in Welding is the most popular welding technique used across industrial and commercial applications. This process has been responsible for joining 2 pieces of metal in everything from cars, ships and rockets to bridges, machines, and other infrastructure. How much do you know about Primary Power in Welding and what it involves?
Join us on this journey of discovery to learn the basics of this well known technique. To get the conversation started, let’s break it down: 8 out of 10 welders working in the USA rely on Primary Power welding for their projects and welds created this way are estimated to last 3 times longer than traditional welding. So read on and find out why Primary Power Welding is such an essential process!
What is Primary Power in Welding?
Welding is a process of joining two materials with the help of heat, pressure, and the use of a special material. It can be used to produce components, products and assemblies that are strong and durable.As with any manufacturing process, welding requires the correct combination of primary power, secondary power, and consumables. Among these, primary power is the factor that determines how efficiently welding will be done and with what kind of weld joint.
Understanding Primary Power Sources
Primary power sources in welding are used to create the temperature needed to join two pieces together. The temperature created is determined by the type of material being welded, and the welding method used.There are currently three primary power sources that are used for welding: gas, electric arc, and resistance.
Gas Welding
Gas welding is the most primitive form of welding and uses flammable gases to heat the materials being joined. It is not used in industrial settings much due to the hazardous fumes that it produces.Electric Arc Welding
Electric arc welding is the most common type of welding used in industry today. It requires an electrical power source and an electrode which is connected to the workpiece. An electric arc is created between the electrode and the workpiece, and this arc is responsible for producing the heat needed to weld.Resistance Welding
Resistance welding is similar to electric arc welding, but it uses an electrical current to heat two layers of metal that are pressed together. As the electrical current passes through the two layers of metal, it causes the metal to heat up and form a bond between the two pieces.The pressure needed to form the bond comes from the welding machine itself.