How Do I Choose the Right Product
Use this guide to learn how to select the welder or cutter that meets your needs and get answers to many
frequently asked questions.
1. Understanding Process Advantages
Unfortunately, there is no single welding or cutting process suitable for all applications. For this
reason, it is necessary to consider the advantages of one process over another.
Wire Welding
MIG (GMAW)
- Easiest process to learn
- High welding speeds possible
- Better control on thinner metals
- Cleaner welds possible with no slag to clean
- Same equipment can be used for Flux Cored Welding
Pulsed MIG (GMAW-P)
- Nearly all metals can be welded in all positions
- Larger diameter electrode wires
- Virtually no spatter
- Welds thin to thick metals
Flux Cored (FCAW)
- Works as well as Stick on dirty or rusty material
- Out-of-position welding
- Deep penetration for welding thick sections
- Increased metal deposition rate
Basic MIG eTraining
Guidelines to Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) [PDF]
|
TIG Welding
TIG (GTAW)
- Provides highest quality and most precise welds
- Highly aesthetic weld beads
- Allows adjustment of heat input while welding by use of a remote control
Pulsed TIG (GTAW-P)
- More control on thin metals
- Less heat distortion on thin metals
TIG Handbook Downloads
|
Stick Welding
Stick (SMAW)
- Better suited for windy, outdoor conditions
- More forgiving when welding on dirty or rusty metal
Principles of SMAW (Stick) Welding Handbook [PDF]
|
Cutting Processes
Plasma Arc Cutting & Gouging (PAC)
- Use with any electrically conductive metals
- Small and precise cut
- Small heat-affected zone which helps prevent warping or paint damage
Plasma Cutting Video Library
Plasma Cutting FAQs
|
Air Carbon Arc Cutting & Gouging (CAC-A)
- Wide variety of metals
- Removes discontinuities or inferior welds
|
|
Submerged Arc (SAW)
- High deposition rates can enhance weld speed and production
- Excellent mechanical properties for high-quality code and X-ray requirements
- Improves welding operator comfort and appeal — arc is below a bed of flux
Submerged Arc Welding [PDF]
|
Resistance Spot Welding
- Portable, easy-to-operate welder for light industrial applications
Resistance Spot Welding Handbook [PDF]
|
|
