Welding methods in metalsmithing
Overview of the most commonly used welding processes and when they are used
Welding is one of the core competencies in the metalsmithing trade. Choosing the right welding method for the specific task is about both the material, material thickness, the requirements for strength and appearance, as well as whether the work takes place in the workshop or in the field.
§MIG and MAG welding
MIG (Metal Inert Gas) and MAG (Metal Active Gas) are both wire welding processes where an endless wire is fed through a welding torch and melts in the arc. The difference lies in the shielding gas: MIG uses an inert gas (typically argon or helium) and is mainly used for aluminium and stainless steel, while MAG uses an active gas (often CO2 or mixtures with argon) and is used for unalloyed and low-alloyed steel.
- 01High welding pace and good productivity
- 02Suitable for both thin and thick sheets
- 03Requires protection against draught because the shielding gas is otherwise blown away
§TIG welding
TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and a separate filler rod, which the welder feeds into the weld pool with the other hand. The method produces very clean and controlled welds and is used where high demands are placed on quality and appearance — for example on stainless steel, aluminium and thinner materials.
§Arc welding with coated electrode
With manual arc welding (also called stick welding or MMA) the arc burns between a coated electrode and the workpiece. The coating forms a protective slag and gas over the melt. The method is robust works well outdoors and in the field because it does not depend on shielding gas and is widely used for construction and repair work.
§Gas welding
Gas welding uses a flame from fuel gas (typically acetylene) and oxygen to melt the material, often with an additive wire. Although the method has been superseded by electrical processes, the flame is still used for heating, bending, brazing and certain repair tasks.
§To choose correctly
The choice of method depends on material, material thickness, requirements for strength and finish, and the work site. A skilled smith knows the strengths and limitations of each method and combines them according to the task.