Because of the thickness and finish of the material, as well as the use of the finished product, the welding process will vary. While there are a variety of methods for welding stainless steel, there are three that are used most commonly by welders in the United States Stainless steel of known for its strength and corrosion resistance. It is a metal alloy of iron, carbon, and a minimum of 10.5% chromium. Stainless steel can be found in many everyday objects. It also plays a prominent role in an array of industries, including energy, transportation, building, research, medicine, food, and logistics. It is the addition of chromium that gives the steel its unique stainless, corrosion-resisting properties. The chromium content of the steel allows the formation of a tough, adherent, invisible, corrosion-resisting chromium oxide film on the steel surface. it is what makes stainless steel shiny. There are more than 60 grades of stainless steel. Stainless Steel is a popular metal in many welding applications for industrial equipment. When welding the heating and cooling of the metal must be controlled. Stainless steel retains heat can lead to problems like warping, rust and, embrittlement. Too much heat means the difference between a burned seam and perfection. The following are the three most common methods for welding stainless steel. Each process has its benefit and unique characteristics.

MIG Welding or Glass Metal AC Welding

MIG welding is a semi-automatic process that when done correctly offers a strong joining of two pieces of stainless steel. This process uses an argon-rich shielding gas and a solid wire electrode. MIG welding is popular because it allows the welder to utilize a pulsed current supply, which can make it easier to weld those tough-to-reach spots on complex stainless steel projects. Other gases mixtures, including those with helium, oxygen, and carbon dioxide, are often used to stabilize the arc and improve the quality of the weld. The primary advantage of MIG welding is that it allows the metal to be welded much more quickly than traditional “stick welding ” techniques. Mig welding can be used on thicker stainless steel and where long weld lines are needed. Because the shielding gas protects the welding arc, this type of welding produces a clean weld with a very little splatter

TIG Welding or Gas Tungsten ARC Welding

Offering high quality, versatility and, longevity, TIG is the most commonly used stainless steel welding process. This welding process creates a low heat input, which makes it perfect for thin material. The argon gas is often mixed with other gases, depending on the needs of the specific project, including helium, hydrogen and, nitrogen. Argon gas is used because it protects and cools the tungsten, creates much less smoke than other gases, and prevents oxidization. To prevent oxidation and increased resistance to corrosion, a single-sided welding process can be used by creating inert backing gas protection between the interior and exterior welds. Tig welding is ideal for critical joints and is widely used in the industry for fine, precise welds and it is the most common method for welding thin stainless steel sections or thinner metals.

Resistance or Spot Welding

Resistance or “spot” welding, as it is often called, is one of the most economical types of welding. The resistance welding (RW) equipment is incredibly versatile, which means it can be used on both small and large projects. RW uses an electrical current to heat frayed metal edges and seal them together. This type of welding is exceptionally productive on metal with a low melting point because it can be tailored to prevent distortion of the metal. Compared with the other methods, resistance welding can be more efficient since it only requires pressing a button to perform the process. Resistance welding can be mechanized and automated. The process has high productivity and low cost creates fewer fumes and a healthier working environment.

Professionals can evaluate the materials, capabilities, and finishing style you want for each project to determine which welding method will be most effective for your individual task.

Palmer Can Help With ASME Code Fabrication and Welding

Palmer has extensive experience in the areas of power piping, pressure piping systems, pressure vessel design and fabrication, and vessel installation. At Palmer Tool, you will encounter expert fabricators for all of your welding needs.
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