Electric welding is a process used to join two or more pieces of metal by using electricity to generate heat, which melts the metal at the joint. Once cooled, the molten metal solidifies and forms a strong bond between the workpieces.

🔧 Types of Electric Welding

Here are the most common types:

1. Arc Welding

   • Uses an electric arc between an electrode and the base material to melt the metals at the welding point.

   • Types:

     • Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) – also called stick welding.

     • Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG) – uses a wire feeding gun and shielding gas.

     • Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) – uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode.

     • Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) – similar to MIG, but with a tubular wire filled with flux.

2. Resistance Welding

   • Heat is generated by passing current through the metal at the point of contact.

   • Types:

     • Spot Welding – used in automotive and sheet metal work.

     • Seam Welding – like spot welding, but uses rotating wheels.

3. Electroslag Welding

   • A vertical welding process used for thick materials; a molten slag pool melts the filler metal and the workpieces.

4. Plasma Arc Welding

   • Similar to TIG but uses a plasma torch; allows for very precise control and deeper weld penetration.

⚙️ Basic Equipment

• Power supply (AC or DC)

• Electrodes (consumable or non-consumable)

• Ground clamp

• Welding cables

• Personal protective equipment (PPE): helmet, gloves, protective clothing