Welding: Three Common Types

Welding is the joining of two or more parts using these forces:

 

  1. Heat
  2. Pressure

 

Welding may also involve metal or plastic. At Rother Machine in Minneapolis, our welders easily produce and/or repair both simple standard and complex customized workpieces. We work with other specialized professionals to create a single component for specific industrial applications. This is a craft and a skill that dates back centuries.

 

A Succinct History

The idea of welding parts together dates back to the Middle Ages. The process at that time was called “forge welding.” Although less popular today, this simple method used principles similar to all types of welding. Forge welding required heat and a means of joining the two heated parts. The forge supplied the heat and a heavy hammer provided the force.

 

By the 19th century, industrialists had discovered gas to be a more effective tool in providing the heat essential for producing a smooth joint. The industrial revolution spurred on further developments. Today, you can find at least 30 different types of welding styles capable of producing solid joints.

 

Types

At Rother Machine, we understand the different types of welding processes available. Among the most common for industrial use are the following three:

  1. MIG (Metal Inert Gas Welding) AKA GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding): Most commonly employed for fabricating steel, stainless steel, and aluminum
  2. TIG AKA Gas Tungsten Arc Welding: Versatile, slower than some but capable of welding together almost any metal or alloy cleanly
  3. Flux-Cored Arc Welding:  The process resembles GMAW but is for heavy work. The materials are thick with results not as aesthetically pleasing or clean

 

Welding at Rother’s

Welding is an ancient skill that has been improved over time. Advanced technology and innovative approaches make it possible for the welders at Rother Machine in Minneapolis to produce clean, high-quality workpieces. We understand what is necessary to ensure that all of our products achieve the detailed attention our customers require so we can meet their exact specifications.