Welding is the process of joining two metal pieces together using heat and pressure. There are four major types of welding processes: MIG, TIG, Stick and Flux-cored welding. MIG welding or Gas Metal Arc Welding is a process that uses a continuously fed, solid wire electrode through a welding gun. TIG welding or Gas Tungsten Arch Welding makes use of a non-consumable tungsten electrode to heat the base and form a molten weld puddle. Stick or Shielded Metal Arch Welding uses a welding rod to carry the electric current and provide the majority of the weld metal. Welding rod (electrode) consists of a core wire coated in flux. Flux-core arch welding uses a continuously fed electrode but uses a tubular wire coated with flux instead of a solid. Out of the four types of welding processes, only the MIG and Flux-cored processes entail the use of welding wires. Following are important details to know before choosing Welding Wire Supplies.
Welding wires are divided into two broad categories: solid wires and flux cored wires. Solid wires are usually plated with copper to increase electrical conductivity, prevent oxidation and increase the life of the welded part. When using solid wire outdoors, the welding operator should be cautious to prevent the wind from blowing the shielding gas coverage away from the welding arc.
The flux-cored wires are also divided into categories: self-shielded and gas shielded wires. Self-shielded flux wires do not require an external shielding gas since the weld is protected from the gas produced when the flux from the wire is burned. Gas shielded wires require an external shielding gas and are mostly used when welding on thicker metals, either indoors or outdoors.
When used correctly and within proper parameter settings, both types of wires can produce sound welds with good weld bead appearances. In addition, both wires are easy to use and are suitable for occasional and novice welders were working in automotive, farming and other applications.
The type of welding wire to use is determined by factors such as the thickness of the application, type of equipment available, proper shielding gas combination and location of the work site.
These are just some of the essential details to know before choosing Welding Wire Supplies. For more information about welding wires, and how to contact a reputable welding wires supplier, visit us.
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