Understanding the Different Types of Welding Processes for Structural Steel

28 September 2020

One of the most versatile and flexible building materials that are utilised in the construction industry today is structural steel. Structural steel comes in a wide variety of shapes as the requirements for construction projects differ from one another. Some more characteristics of structural steel that are considered before using the material include composition, strength, and size.

Numerous structural steel that is maximised in a lot of construction projects takes the form of an elongated beam, which helps them boast different benefits. This form factor makes it sustainable for construction use. It also makes the material lighter than other types of steel or metal. The cost of buying structural steel is likewise more economical as compared to other metals.

To date, there are several types of welding processes that can be utilised for structural steel. These welding processes include the following.

Stud Welding

Stud welding or Drawn Arc Stud welding is an electric process of welding a stud or a fastener onto a metal base. The stud or the fastener, which works as one of the electrodes for the material, is accompanied by a flat metal plate. This welding process is done by heating the components with an arc. The type of flux that is used on stud welding is known as a ferrule. It is a ceramic ring that regulates the heat generated, retains the molten material within the weld zone, and prevents oxidation.

This type of welding is great for structural steel that is intended for constructing buildings, bridges, and other properties. Stud welding can likewise be used for cable management, power distribution equipment, shipbuilding, military, and automotive applications.

Flux Core Welding

Flux core welding is another type of welding that can be used in fabricating structural steel as well as stainless steel and nickel-based alloy. This welding process is known for its automatic or semi-automatic, high-speed, and portable welding process that is carried out by a consumable tubular electrode and a constant voltage or current. Flux core welding can be categorised into two types. One type of flux welding is done with an external supply of shielding gas, while the other can be done without any external supply.

Flux welding that requires an external supply of shielding gas is intended for welding thicker and out-of-position metals. The other type of flux welding, on the other hand, only requires less precleaning of steel.

Stick Welding

Stick welding, otherwise known as Shielded Metal Arc welding, is a manual welding method that utilises a constant electrical power source and a consumable fixed-length electrode covered with a flux to create and generate structural steel. The current used for this type of welding may either be current or direct. Once the welding of the steel is finished, the metal powder of the electrode disintegrates and subsequently releases a shielding gas in the form of vapours. The gas released by the electrode can protect the weld area from contamination.

Many industries turn to stick welding since it is portable and affordable. This welding process can also cater to several welding positions, electrodes, and metal types.