On Site Welding: Some Common Types and Protective Measures
January 10, 2018
In many cases, it may not be possible to dismantle or move an object to weld. On site welding processes are ideal for such cases where it is not feasible to move the object and carry it to the workshop. In fact, there are many jobs, which can be better handled on site such as repair and maintenance of metal installations and structures. There are many different types of welding processes, which are used in very specialized jobs. Here is a list of four of the most common types of on site welding processes.
- Stick Welding
- MIG
- TIG
- Flux cored arc welding
Stick Welding:
This is a traditional type of welding which has remained essentially the same for the last few decades. It allows for a very practical and simple welding process. Though capable of doing other metals, it is generally used to weld together stainless steel or steel.
MIG Welding:
MIG Welding:
This is considered as a semi-automatic welding process. This process of welding is usually done in factories, workshops and fabrication shops. It is a fast production and easy welding process. Once the equipment is set up, it is a breeze to work with. Some of the common metals include steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
TIG Welding:
TIG is a complex weld process, which needs a high degree of skill and experience. It can be used to weld almost any metal. TIG is used in places where they need very high-quality precision welds involving metals such as titanium.
Flux Cored Arc Welding:
This is actually a type of MIG welding process where a different filler material with a flux core is used during the welding process. It is a very fast method of on site welding available today and hence is popularly used in places, which need the very large number of welds such as shipyards etc. It works the best with the steel.
Whatever be the kind of welding method used, it is very important to understand the various protective measures, which are important in any welding process.
One of the known risks with on site welding is of it being a potential fire hazard. Hence the Occupational Safety & Health Association and American Welders Society (AWS) have a series of measures known as the Welding Safety Procedures, which is designed to protect welding personnel from injury.
The Environment:
The place where on site welding takes place must be properly screened on all four sides to contain sparks and other hazardous elements from escaping. However, extra care must be taken to ensure that the screens put in place do not act to restrict ventilation during the actual welding process. This will reduce the chances of poisoning of welders and their assistants. A proper exhaust system is important to maintain the number of toxic gases and fumes within permissible limits.
Personnel Safety:
Safety procedures must be followed to protect working from falls while working on scaffolds, runways, and elevated areas. Protective and resistive clothing is mandatory to protect against vapors, fumes and UV rays.
Welding goggles and fire retardant headgear is a must for personnel who would be doing the welding process. Care must be taken to ensure welding cables, wires etc. are not kept on staircases and passageways where they could become a potential hazard for other personnel.
Welding goggles and fire retardant headgear is a must for personnel who would be doing the welding process. Care must be taken to ensure welding cables, wires etc. are not kept on staircases and passageways where they could become a potential hazard for other personnel.
Fire Protection:
The object for on site welding should be removed to a clear area, free of potential fire hazards. But, if it is not possible to remove the object then care must be taken to clear the vicinity of the object from other material, which can be a fire hazard. For situations where removal of neither is possible, a guard may be placed between the two to minimize the possibility of fire. On site welding should not be performed where there is no adequate fire protection. Fire extinguishers are a must for any on site welding location and must be kept within easy reach. This will ensure that any small fire can be tackled at the earliest and does not get out of control.
Even though the safety features are designed to minimize the possibility of any risk, care must be taken to ensure the safety of the personnel and the surroundings, not only through the guidelines but also through common sense.
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