Welding has been around for centuries, though not in the forms most commonly used today. One of the first welding processes ever used was known as forge welding. Forge welding attempts to join two metals through a process of heating, and then pounding and striking. It's what blacksmiths did. But since then, there have been quite a few advancements in the welding world.
As you can guess from the history of welding, the ability to join two or more pieces of metal together in a strong bond has been fundamental in our advancements in all areas of life, from housing to transportation; from manufacturing to repairs. Understanding welding basics can come in handy at work, but it will just as often come in handy around the house, in the workshop or on the farm. Because of this, welding is a skill that almost anyone can benefit from, male or female, young or old.
Why Weld?
If you own any equipment or machinery that is metal, welding will certainly serve as a useful skill. Some typical goals of a welding job include:
· Fixing stress cracks
· Reinforcing weak joints, and
· Cutting/shaping new parts and adapters from raw plating.
For chores like these, many welders rely on a process known as arc welding. Arc welding is a method where during the welding process, an electrical current jumps through an air gap (between a positively charged electrode and a negatively charged steel plate) and produces an enormous amount of heat. This heat is produced at the end of a welding rod, and when it does, metal can be melted. Well, it's a little more complicated than that, but the concept is the same.
Perhaps the most common and economical welding method used today is AC (alternating current) arc welding. You can locate a simple AC welder just about anywhere, such as your local farm store or home improvement center. This welding process is ideal for most of your simple, routine welding jobs. Therefore, AC arc welding is ideal for those of you just starting out.
Minimize Your Risk
While arc welding isn't incredibly complicated, there are a few risks and hazards that you should be aware of:
1. Exposure to radiation
2. Flying sparks (in the form of globs of molten metal)
3. Electric Shock
4. Fumes
5. Damage to your eyes, and
6. Burns
However, by wearing protective clothing and specialized welding helmets and other gear, you can greatly reduce the inherent risks of welding. Here are a few other tips to help keep you safe while arc welding:
· Make sure to work on a dry floor. Wear thick rubber shoes and dry leather welding gloves.
· Be sure to use insulated electrode holders.
· Check to make sure that your equipment is all properly grounded.
· Keep your work area properly ventilated to avoid inhaling any potentially toxic fumes.
· Be on the look out for flying bits of melted metal.
· Most importantly, be aware of any other people who are around you. If they aren't wearing the proper gear, then keep them away from your project.
This will get you started welding safely - one of the most important things when learning a new craft.
Home Welding
In just six simple steps, a broken patio chair once destined for the garbage can be transformed into good-as-new condition. Here's how to save the expense of replacing numerous items around your home.
Evaluate the repair for safe welding
Be certain your work space is clear and free of chemicals, paints, solvents, and other flammable material. You should always weld in a dry area such as a garage or workshop which provides circulation of clean air. Dress properly to protect yourself from sparks and rays.
Determine the weld piece material
Prior to beginning your welding project, determine what type of metal you will be welding. If you are unsure, you can test the metal by placing a magnet on the material. If the magnet attaches itself to the metal it is most likely steel. If the metal appears to be galvanized or plated, have it identified by a welding specialist before welding. Most metallic items are made of a low-carbon steel and are quite easy to weld.
Prepare the Welding Surface
Like painting, the weld surface must be clean and free from oil, paint, rust or other contaminants. Use sandpaper or a wire brush to remove any traces of solvents.
Attach the Work Clamp
Set the voltage and wire speed according to the chart on the inside of the unit's wire feed section door. Next, adjust for the steel thickness which can be measured using the gauge chart also located in the unit. Once you have adjusted the settings, attach the work clamp as close to the joint as possible to complete the electrical circuit back to the welder. Be sure it makes solid electrical contact. Now join the steel together by creating a weld joint, at both ends, otherwise the heat will cause the pieces to move apart.
Start Welding
To achieve the correct welding position, hold the gun in your right hand and the face shield with your left hand. Weld from left to right. (Left-handed welders simply do the opposite.) Tilt the gun toward the direction of travel holding the gun tip at an angle. To strike a correct arc, position the gun over the joint to be welded with the contact tip 3/8- to 1/2 inch away. The end of the wire may be lightly touching the work piece. Once the arc has been established, maintain the correct length of the wire. It should be 1/2-inch long for nearly all applications.
Begin welding by turning on the machine and squeezing the gun trigger. To stop welding, release the gun trigger. When finished, turn off the machine and allow the work piece to cool. Then chip away the residue with a hammer or wire brush.
Paint the Welded Surface
After the weld has been completely cooled (this could take several minutes) and the surface has been cleaned, just add the finishing touch by painting the welded surface to match the rest of the item. Your job is now complete and you are officially a home welder. | 
