Despite the long history of welding, it was not until the 1800s when modern techniques began to come about, greatly expanding the ability of welders to create a variety of assemblies. As varying methods of welding can produce different finished products, it can be useful to have a general understanding of the most common types of welding and how they are carried out.
MIG Welding
Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding is generally known as the simplest method to carry out, and as such, it is often the first that welders learn on their path to becoming proficient. Since MIG welding is a form of arc welding method, it is also sometimes referred to as Gas Metal Arc welding. To carry out this process, a solid wire is heated to create the temperatures required for fusion.
SMAW Welding
Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), otherwise known as stick welding, is another basic method that is considered more traditional. To conduct SMAW welding, a metal filler electrode is placed between two components before being induced with electricity, allowing for a high enough temperature to be reached for materials to become molten. SMAW welding is useful for small repairs and hobbyist applications, and it can be considered easier to master as compared to MIG welding.
TIG Welding
Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding is an arc welding method that may be also referred to as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding. TIG welding is most commonly used for industrial projects and applications, though it may also serve other various needs as well. TIG welding is considered to be a more complex process as compared to the previously mentioned techniques, so it is generally only carried out by welders with ample expertise. To conduct TIG welding, a welding wire and a TIG torch is used to heat the electrode enough to create an arc for welding.
Plasma Arc Welding
Plasma arc welding is fairly comparable to TIG welding as an arc method, and it is used for large-scale projects and needs. To carry out plasma arc welding, ionizing gasses are relied on for arc generation, ensuring that materials become molten for fusion. One common example of plasma arc welding use is for the creation of aerospace engine blades, making it a very important practice.
Laser Beam Welding
Laser beam welding is a fairly unique method, that of which creates welds using a laser. With a laser, a very consistent and concentrated beam of heat can be used to accurately fuse metals. For their applicational use, laser beam welding often serves automobile manufacturing and industrial work.
Conclusion
Depending on the types of metals you are working with and the operations you are carrying out, there are a variety of methods and equipment that you can take advantage of. If you are in the market for various parts and products for your welding needs, there is no better sourcing platform than Aircraft Hardware for Sale. Owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we present customers access to an unrivaled inventory of parts that have been sourced from thousands of top global manufacturers that we trust.
Take the time to peruse our expansive catalogs as you see fit, and all listings are ready for purchase at any time. If you would like to request a quote for your comparisons, fill out one of our online forms at your earliest convenience, and a team member will contact you in 15 minutes or less to present a customized solution. See how we can serve as your strategic sourcing partner for all your operational needs today when you get in contact with a team member of ours!
![]() |
“We Proudly Support Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund that serves United States Military Personal experiencing the Invisible Wounds of War : Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress (PTS). Please visit website (www.fallenheroesfund.org) and help in their valiant effort”. |
We Hope that You Will Visit Us Again the Next Time You Need NSN Parts and Make Us Your Strategic Purchasing Partner.
Request for Quote