8 Types of Orbital Welding and Their Uses
Orbital welding is a type of welding that uses an electrode that is moved in a circular or elliptical motion. This type of welding is often used for welding pipes and tubes together. There are three different types of orbital welding: Tig, Mig, and Plasma. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
Different Types of Orbital Welding
Tig Orbital Welding
Tig orbital welding is the most common type of orbital welding. It uses an electrode that is made of tungsten. The tungsten electrode produces an arc that heats the metal being welded. Tig orbital welding is often used for stainless steel and aluminium. It is also the preferred method for welding thin materials because it produces a cleaner weld. However, Tig orbital welding can be more expensive than other methods because it requires special equipment.
Mig Orbital Welding
Mig orbital welding uses an electrode that is made of metal. The metal electrode produces an arc that heats the metal being welded. Mig orbital welding is often used for thicker materials because it can create a stronger weld. However, Mig orbital welding can be more expensive than other methods because it requires special equipment.
Plasma Orbital Welding
Plasma orbital welding uses an electrode that is made of plasma. The plasma electrode produces an arc that heats the metal being welded. Plasma orbital welding is often used for difficult-to-weld materials such as titanium. It can also be used for thin materials because it produces a cleaner weld. However, plasma orbital welding can be more expensive than other methods because it requires special equipment.
Gas Metal Arc Welding
Gas Metal Arc Welding, or GMAW, is one of the most popular welding techniques used by professionals and hobbyists. It is known for its versatility and speed in joining metals such as steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and nickel alloys; it can fabricate structures and build components of any shape or size. This welding operates by sending an electric arc from a consumable wire electrode to the two pieces of metal that need to be joined. As these two pieces become hot enough to melt, they fuse into one continuous piece. A shielding gas is also released during the process, which helps protect the weld pool from contaminants in the air. With minimal pre- or post-weld processing necessary and easy adjustment of current settings for optimal results every time, GMAW welding is quickly becoming a go-to choice for anyone looking for quick and secure welding jobs.
Flux core arc welding
Flux core arc welding is welding two pieces of metal together by emitting an electric arc. This method is often used with steel and stainless steel, but it can also be used with other metals. It’s a highly versatile tool as there are two ways of using flux-cored welding: self-shielded and gas-shielded flux-core arc welding. The former type doesn’t require a shielding gas cylinder, while the latter requires an external shielding gas to protect against oxidation during the Arc welding process. Regardless, safety gear such as thick gloves, goggles and a respirator mask must always be worn to prevent any hazardous particles from entering your body. Flux core arc welding is an excellent choice for many applications because it produces very strong welds quickly and efficiently – making it ideal for DIY projects or more complex tasks such as constructing a bridge.
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding, commonly referred to as TIG welding, is a specialized form of welding that uses a non-consumable electrode and an inert shielding gas. The process has become widely used for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness in aluminium and magnesium repair, corrosion protection, and the production of boilers, reaction vessels, nuclear fuel components and aircraft turbine blades. It is also used in craftwork, such as traditional wrought iron designs. Combining precision and speed with a beautiful finish – without splatter or messy electrodes to clean up – makes TIG welding ideal for intricate projects requiring quick turnarounds. Speciality metals and alloys are easily welded using this procedure due to their controlled heating rate, producing strong welds with perfect accuracy. Best of all, it’s easy on the environment: no harmful fumes or airborne toxins like those made by other arc welding methods.
Submerged Arc Welding
Submerged Arc Welding is an effective and highly efficient welding technique that has been used in industry for many years. It produces clean, seamless welds with minimal slag inclusions, often at higher amperages than other welding processes. This makes it ideal for large-scale welds on thicker steel materials. Submerged Arc Welding also generates less heat during the process, thus reducing the need for post-weld clean-up of structural pieces. Adding to its usefulness, this welding process can be automated for increased efficiency and repeatability of product quality. The precision results produced by Submerged Arc Welding techniques are a major reason why it is widely relied upon throughout the industry.
Laser Beam Arc Welding
Laser Beam Arc Welding is a revolutionary form of welding that is becoming increasingly popular within the manufacturing industry. A laser light is used to concentrate and direct extreme heat to melt two pieces of metal, creating a bond between them. The process is incredibly accurate and precise compared to traditional welding methods, allowing for complex structures and designs to be created more easily and quickly. Laser Beam Arc Welding can also be used to weld together materials that would normally be very difficult or even impossible to weld using other forms of welding, making it an invaluable asset for manufacturers. Not only does this method create strong bonds between materials, but it also does so with greater speed than traditional welding – a major advantage for those working on large projects with limited timeframes.
Conclusion:
Orbital welding is a type of welding that uses an electrode that is moved in a circular or elliptical motion to weld pipes and tubes together. There are three different types of orbital welding: Tig, Mig, and Plasma. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks. Depending on the material you are trying to weld, one type may be better suited. Consult with an expert before beginning any project to ensure you have the proper equipment and techniques for a successful weld.
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