What is stick or shielded metal arc welding?

Stick or shielded-metal arc welding is an asset when working with areas that have not been treated to a thorough cleaning or are showing signs of rust. In stick welding, technicians use an electrode to join two metals by conducting electricity into the base material. Doing so causes it to melt, and its flux coating provides the necessary barrier to protect the weld from contaminants. 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of stick or shielded metal arc welding? 

Stick welding is advantageous for fusing thick metals and is a flexible technique applicable across most industries. It is best suited for thicker materials and is not a great solution for joining thin metals. 

What is TIG or gas tungsten arc welding?

TIG or gas tungsten arc welding operates at an extremely high melting point and provides manufacturers with affordable options that meet safety requirements while respecting your budget and deadlines. 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of TIG or gas tungsten arc welding?

Often used in metal fabrication, TIG welding offers many benefits, which include the following:

• Welding electrodes are long-lasting and will not melt away
• No requirement for the use of costly filler material for smaller projects 
• Ability to gain more control over precision by manually feeding filler rods in for larger projects  
• Yields a precision weld that looks polished and professional while meeting all safety requirements 
• Excellent for external surface welds 

One disadvantage TIG welding presents is that time and resources must be allocated to clean base materials thoroughly before the welding procedure can commence. 

What is MIG or gas metal arc welding?

MIG welding employs a thin metal wire fed through the welder, reaching the appropriate heat as it traverses through the machine toward the work site. MIG welding follows one of two processes, which include:

• Gas utilization 
• Gasless procedures where a flux core is utilized 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of MIG or gas metal arc welding?

MIG welding can be advantageous when you fuse together thin metals like sheet metals and tubing. One disadvantage is that additional time must be spent ensuring base surfaces are meticulously cleaned before welding procedures begin.