Top welding types for construction business startups
Starting your own construction business is a dream that many people share, especially if you are someone who enjoys working with their hands.
But it can be a tricky endeavour if you are not aware of all of the different elements of construction such as the importance of welding.
Having different types of welding machines for your new business is vital, allowing you to stay ahead of the curve and enabling you to complete projects quickly and efficiently.
You should look into different types of welding equipment as well as welding techniques to aid with the success of your business. For example, you might be considering investing in MIG welding or industrial welding for a large project. Alternatively, you could look into a stick welding machine for those more detailed and intricate jobs. If you are looking to start a construction business, keep reading for the types of welding you need to take note of.
Metal inert gas (MIG) welding
MIG welding is ideal for those who are just setting out in their welding journey, which is perfect for a startup construction business too. MIG welding consists of two different types of welding, one which uses a bare wire and another which uses a flux core.
The bare wire type of MIG welding is perfect for melding two pieces of thin metal together, such as if you were creating a frame for an aluminium door or window.
MIG welding which uses a flux core is perfect for outdoor welding as it does not require a gas supply or a flow meter. The equipment is inexpensive and ideal for small construction projects that you will likely have when you are starting out.
However, it should not be your main form of welding because it is intended for smaller projects, so be sure to upgrade your equipment when you need to.
Stick welding
Another popular welding type in many construction companies is stick welding. This is a type of welding which uses an electrode rod to weld with and is the most traditional form of welding. Once the welding arc has been struck, the flux coating of the rod provides shielding gas as it burns off.
This gas prevents moisture and other contaminants from compromising the weld. The rod provides filler metal, which is the metal that is added to a welded joint.
Stick welding is also the perfect solution for a small to medium-sized construction company as the equipment is basic and affordable and it is the type of welding that many professionals learn when they start to weld.
It can be used both indoors and outdoors and can be used with many different metal types. This versatility makes it a popular choice for many construction businesses.
Gas Tungsten Arc Gas welding (GTAW/TIG)
If you have a project that requires you to weld together large pieces of metal, such as stainless steel, then gas tungsten or TIG welding is the optimal choice to make.
A tungsten electrode is used in this process, which means that the joins will be much stronger but the process can sometimes be a little more complex and time-consuming than the others. You should stick to using this process on larger projects that have more time allocated to them.
It requires two hands to be successful, which makes it a highly skilled job to perform. One hand will hold the TIG torch and the other will feed the rod through.
This is used to weld metals such as aluminium, copper alloys, cobalt, and even titanium. It is better to use this type of welding for a large or difficult project, but be warned that it can take longer. Ensure that your welders have been professionally trained in this welding process before taking on any projects.
Laser welding
Now, this might sound like something out of a science-fiction novel, but laser welding is ideal for precision projects. It is a high-energy technique but can be useful if you need to weld intricate doors, windows or joins for your construction project.
The laser beam provides a concentrated heat source which is used to weld together pieces of metal. It is usually used for mass-produced items but can be useful in many applications.
Laser welding can be performed by hand but many companies prefer to use a computer-automated system. This can become costly, so might not be applicable to a startup business.
But, once you have reached new heights, you could look into investing in laser welding equipment. It is a precise method of welding, which could be useful in drawing in more clients, as you can offer a unique service to them which other companies cannot.
Offering variety is key
Having different types of welding equipment and offering different types of welding to your clients is a sure-fire way to build their interest and to stay ahead of the competition. Start by looking into MIG welding as your basis, and include stick welding training for your welders. TIG welding and laser welding can be added later when you have built your repertoire and your welders have become more skilled.