Welding Materials: Which Metals Can Be Welded and How?
Welding is one of the most durable methods of joining metal pieces. It’s used to make everything from car parts to fences to structures. While most metals perform best when welded to similar materials, soldering dissimilar metals is possible in some cases, depending on the metal composition and the soldering used to fuse them. Learn more about several metals that are commonly used in soldering projects to better understand the process and the variety of constructions that are possible.
Aluminum
Aluminum, the most abundant metal on the planet, is used in a wide range of applications. Aluminum has an unusually high corrosion resistance, making it more durable and less prone to damage over time. The material is used in a wide range of industries, many of which require certain materials to be welded. Aluminum can be found in a wide range of vehicles, from automobiles to airplanes. It’s also used in construction, particularly where lightweight and durability are important. Stick soldering, gas metal arc soldering, and AC-TIG soldering are the best methods for aluminum. However, not all aluminum can be easily welded. Certain aluminum grades weld more easily than others. Some require special attention, such as filler materials that aid in the fusion of the materials.
Steel and stainless steel
When compared to other metals, iron-based metals such as steel and stainless steel work with the most techniques. Low-carbon mild steel is one of the most weldable metals on the market. Its composition contains trace amounts of elements that can reduce the likelihood of a failed weld. Stainless steel has a more complex chemical composition, but it can also be used with a variety of oxidation-aware techniques.
Copper
Copper is extremely easy to weld, resulting in a much smoother and faster soldering process. Unlike aluminum, soldering copper is simple and ideal for beginners. Although the heat required to weld copper is approximately twice that required to weld steel, it is the temperature of the heat that makes it easier and possible.
When it comes to proper welding service, Jerry Lee's Onsite Welding is the name that you can rely on for the job. We can take care of your metals that can be welded in Billings, MT. And if you want to book our services or inquire about our offers, feel free to call us at (406) 213-1955.