Welding 101
32 articles
Is Welding Hard to Learn? A Beginner’s Guide to Starting Welding
Welding is easy to start but takes time and practice to master. This guide covers what beginners need to know, including learning difficulty, required equipment, suitable welding processes, and safety tips for getting started.
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What Is Oxy-Acetylene Welding?
Oxy-acetylene welding is a gas welding process that uses an oxygen and acetylene flame to melt and join metals. Learn how this welding method works, the equipment it requires, its common applications, and how it differs from modern arc welding processes.
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Can You Weld Cast Aluminum? What You Need to Know Before Repairing It
Cast aluminum can often be welded, but not every part is worth repairing. Learn why cast aluminum is more challenging to weld, when TIG or MIG welding may be suitable, and what factors determine whether repair is practical or replacement is the better option.
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What Is 1F Welding Position? Flat Fillet Weld Explained
The 1F welding position is a flat fillet weld position where welding is performed on the top side of a horizontal surface. Learn what 1F means, how to perform a flat fillet weld, the techniques that improve weld quality, common defects to avoid, and how 1F compares with other welding positions.
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Plasma Arc Welding (PAW): How It Works, Modes, Uses, and Limits
Plasma arc welding (PAW) makes narrow, deep welds. It is mainly used for precise production work. PAW can reduce distortion and speed up long runs, but the equipment costs more and takes time to set up. This guide explains how PAW works and when TIG is a better choice.
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How to Measure Wire Gauge: 4 Easy Methods to Identify Wire Size
Not sure what size wire you have? Learn four practical ways to measure wire gauge, from checking markings to using a gauge tool, caliper, or micrometer. This guide also explains how to read AWG charts and measure conductor size accurately.
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How to Choose the Right Drive Roll for Smooth Wire Feeding
Having MIG wire feeding problems? Learn how to choose the right drive roll by matching groove type and size to your welding wire for smoother, more reliable wire feeding.
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What Is Inductance in MIG Welding? Effects, Settings & Adjustment
MIG welding inductance controls how quickly current changes, affecting how an arc feels and a weld bead forms. Small adjustments can make a real difference. This guide explains inductance clearly and shows how to choose a suitable setting for your material and application.
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What Is Submerged Arc Welding? SAW Process, Flux Types, and Uses
Submerged arc welding (SAW) feeds continuous wire beneath granular flux, creating a protected weld pool for fast, consistent welding on thick steel. Its steady, mechanized travel makes SAW especially effective on long, repeatable seams throughout heavy steel fabrication.
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