How Welding Has Changed Over the Years

Welding dates as far back as the Middle Ages. When it was first introduced the technique was extremely different than it is now. During the early years, welding was performed using heat and hammering. A blacksmith would use a hammer combined with a heat source in order to create numerous items with iron and other metals. Today, things are a little different, and I'm here to briefly explain the progression of welding.

IMPROVEMENTS MADE DURING THE 19TH CENTURY

The changes that welding has undergone throughout the centuries is amazing. The 19th century is when welding began to make some major and very positive changes. This century brought the discovery of the electric generator, which made arc lighting possible. Blacksmiths also began to weld at this time by using gas. The 19th century is when welders discovered the use of carbon and metal arcs, as well.

INCREASED POPULARITY DURING WORLD WAR I

During World War I, there was a high demand for armament, which brought an abundance of work for welders. This sudden and increased amount of work brought more advancements, which made creating items out of metal significantly easier. One especially useful invention during this time was the electrode. Other notable advancements during this period included spot, seam, resistance, projection, and flash butt welding.

WHAT IS WELDING LIKE TODAY?

Welding today typically falls into two categories: arc welding or torch welding. Arc welding involves the use of electrodes that are attached to a wire. This helps to melt the outer layer as well as any filler material from the metal. Arc welding takes special training, because the welder must strategically perform the welding in order to produce top-notch products. A steady hand is also necessary, as any imperfections would be very visible, and in most instances, unacceptable.

Torch welding entails the use of oxyacetylene, which is a mixture of oxygen and acetylene, in order to perform welding projects. Oxygen raises the temperature of the torch, increasing its effectiveness. Although torch welding is a popular type of welding, it isn't as widely used as it was in the past. However, it continues to be the welding type of choices when it comes to makes pipes and tubes. Welders also prefer the torch process when making repairs, as well. Despite its decrease in popularity, torch welding, like arc welding, also requires great skill and training. It takes years of hands-on experience to truly master this skill.

TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS & WELDING

Technology has definitely had an impact on welding over the years. One major technological advancement was the invention of laser beam welding, which totally changed the way welding was performed. Not only does this type of welding enable a worker to produce at a much more rapid rate, but the use of a laser beam inthe welding process simplifies the creation of narrow and deep welds. Laser beam welding is used in environments where higher volumes of work is necessary, and is therefore frequently used in the automotive industry.

Ickler combines decades of welding expertise with optimum customer service. Keeping up with the many innovations in the welding field has enabled Ickler to continue to excel. Regardless of the project, Ickler has the ability to quickly and accurately cut, mold, and revise any type of metal piece.

Ickler accepts all types of welding projects, regardless of the type of metal. So for those looking to have a welding project completed, whether simple or complex, Ickler is the best choice. It doesn't matter if the project seems impossible or has never been performed before in the past: Ickler can get the job done. We have the ability to accurately complete top-notch projects, and have decades of experience working on custom jobs.

*This post is also featured on my blog: http://custommachining.ickler.com/blog/how-welding-has-changed-over-the-years