A welded joint is a permanent way to bind metals to ensure the structure is strong and durable. You can finish excellently after grinding the welded joint and painting the structure. Some standard welding methods include Gas Metal Arc, Gas Tungsten Arc, Flux Cored Arc and Shielded Metal Arc. This piece discusses the criteria for choosing a welding method. 

Productivity

One of the significant issues that manufacturers must consider is the time spent in production. For example, Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding does not require the welder to change rods or brush the weld constantly. The end product is also clean, and the process is fast. This welding method is also simple. Hence, you can have your products delivered within the shortest time possible. 

However, it would help if you also considered the time needed to prepare the production process. For example, simple welding methods such as arc welding are versatile and work even on dirty metals. Such an approach does not require complex inputs such as shielding gas. The welder does not waste time refilling such items; hence, this method is ideal for urgent fabrications. 

Environment

Some welding methods are challenging to use in specific environments. For example, MIG and other welding methods that need shielding gases are difficult to operate outside the factory setup. Portable welding equipment is essential for off-site applications. Arc welding machines, for example, are easy to transport since the welder only needs a hand-held device and a bag with rods. 

Some projects require a controlled environment. For example, some joints require sufficient cleaning before welding begins. Such joints are challenging to clean in an off-site location where dust, rain and other problems are common. Therefore, always choose the appropriate welding method, mainly when you cannot transport the project to a factory. 

Strength

Welded joints should be strong enough to resist stress and hence promote the durability and safety of the end product. Consequently, the welding method must produce a joint that is strong enough. For example, Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) produces the strongest welded joints. MIG also creates a strong joint. Such methods are ideal for safety-critical welding projects.

The strength produced by a stitch welded joint is lower than that of a continuous weld. MIG welding is ideal for creating a continuous weld bead since the welder does not change wires constantly. In addition, you must consider the amount of time it takes for the joint to cool and the possibility of the weld joint getting infected. These factors ultimately affect the strength of the joint. 

Some essential factors to consider when selecting a welding method include productivity, environment and strength. 

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