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Industry Changes, Environmental Impact and Other Manufacturing News

Are you curious about manufacturing? Do you wonder how things are made? Do you want to know about the environmental impact of the products you are buying? Are you in the manufacturing field? In that field, are you looking for ways to improve processes, profit margins, safety or other aspects of your business? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then, you have find the right blog. This blog explores all aspects of manufacturing from a variety of angles. It may also delve into industrial topics that are related to manufacturing. I invite you to look around, and please feel free to share any posts that interest you.

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Industry Changes, Environmental Impact and Other Manufacturing News

4 Advanced Welding Techniques For Structural Steel Fabrication

by Dan Owens

Structural steel fabrication remains a critical aspect of the construction, manufacturing and automotive industry. It's a highly essential process when manufacturing custom steel products. Often, this process involves cutting, bending and shaping different workpieces into distinct shapes and sizes. When talking about structural steel fabrication, the quality of your products depends on the welding process chosen. This post will discuss some of the best structural steel welding techniques you should consider for your fabrication projects.

Stick Welding

Also referred to as shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), stick welding involves the use of electrical power and an appropriate electrode to fuse metal pieces. It is an ideal welding process for welding contractors who prefer simplicity and portability. However, because of its immense power consumption and regular electrode change, this method can be a little slow. Thus, consider this welding process for non-complex structural steel tasks.  

Submerged Arc Welding

This type of structural steel welding involves melting the metal under the flux. Since the welding heat is concentrated in a single point, this method achieves excellent penetration depth and efficiency. Furthermore, it achieves excellent quality since it doesn't experience a splash phenomenon, and the heat-impacted location is smaller. You can utilise fillet welds alongside butt welds with a significant welding length and thick plates to achieve excellent results. 

Gas-shielded Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW-G)

If you are working on an indoor structural steel welding project, gas-shielded flux-cored arc welding (FCAW-G) can prove very helpful. This easy-to-perform process can work on all-possible welding capacities. Another advantage of this method is its deeper penetration, and ability to link plates with contamination. Furthermore, it offers a wider range of electrodes you can choose from. However, the FCAW-G welding technique is generation of slag from its electrical cables, which requires elimination between passes and after the welding process to alleviate littering in your workplace. 

Self-Shielded Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW-S)

Finally, another essential structural steel welding is the self-shielded flux-cored arc welding (FCAW-S). This technique helps boost productivity since it is essential in applications that demand complex welding tasks. Comprehensive welding jobs can additionally maximise the capabilities of this process. While it will significantly boost productivity, this structural welding technique is only ideal for stationary applications. Furthermore, it demands more training because of its intricacy in process requirements and operations.

These are the four essential structural steel fabrication techniques to consider for your projects. Ensure that you work with a professional welding service for more advice and support. 

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