Welding is one of the most important skills of our time and it’s only growing in popularity. In 2019 alone, about 130,000 welders were employed across the United States, earning an average salary of almost $52,000 a year.
But, what is wire welding exactly? As an emerging form of welding, wire welding is an incredibly efficient method that utilizes an electrode in order to bond metals together. In this article we will discuss the basics of wire welding, its advantages, and the different types of wire welding.
So, if you’re ready to learn how to wire weld, buckle up and let’s get welding!
What is Wire Welding?
Wire welding is a type of welding that is used to repair or create parts and products composed of metal or plastic. It is a more precise form of welding than arc welding and is used for more specialized tasks, such as automobile body repair, jewelry making, and fabricating products from sheet metal and other materials.Types of Wire Welding
There are several types of wire welding that are used for different purposes. The most common types are:- MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding: This type of welding uses a high-temperature arc to weld together two pieces of metal.
A wire electrode is inserted into the welding torch and melts as the arc strike it, and the two metals are joined. It is a fast, efficient process.
- TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding: This type of welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to heat and melt the wires together.
The tungsten tip creates a heat that is much higher than the MIG process and allows for a finer and more precise weld.
- Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW): This type of welding uses a shielding gas to protect the weld from the atmosphere.
It is a popular process for welding aluminum, steel, and other materials because it creates a strong and highly detailed weld.
- Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW): This type of welding uses a shielding gas to protect the weld from oxidation and atmospheric contamination.
It also uses a flux-cored wire that has been embedded with flux. As the arc passes through the wire it melts the flux and a strong weld is formed.
Advantages of Wire Welding
Wire welding has a variety of advantages over other types of welding.The process is faster and more precise than arc welding, which allows for faster build ups and repairs. It also provides superior welds that are stronger and more durable. The process also produces fewer fumes and sparks, making it safer to work with.