To get your melting job done perfectly, you must know the type of metal to weld. Metals differ in nature, so they react differently when manipulated and heated. On heating, they expand and then become soft so that they can be applied for specific purposes. There are different types of welding approaches, and so metals react differently to these methods. Before welding a metal, you need to learn the type of metal and determine whether it is suitable. You need to consider certain points before welding a metal-like electrical conductivity, melting point, strength ductility, etc.
- Steel
Welders are aware of the strength that are present in the steel. Different types of steel are available, each with different welding and heating characteristics. An alloy made with a majority of iron, and only 2% of other metals is known as steel. The popular and common type of steel for welding includes carbon steel, which is available in different variations such as high, medium, and low. If the carbon content is higher, the steel will become stronger. Steel is a metal that is versatile as it can be weldable in any process. There are 2 types of steel mainly used for the welding process:
- Low Carbon Steel
This type of steel can be easily weldable since it contains a higher amount of carbon in it. Low carbon steel is a highly ductile welding metal, making it more weldable. In addition, it contains only 0.4% manganese and 0.3% carbon. Therefore, there are no chances of hydrogen cracking and bitterness in the steel structure. This makes carbon steel the best metal which can be welded easily.
- Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant. This steel can be welded based on its grade. For instance, austenitic and ferritic are types of stainless steel that can be welded easily.
- Aluminum
Aluminum is a noncorrosive metal like stainless steel. However, compared to stainless steel, aluminum is much more lightweight. For welding, aluminum alloys and pure aluminum is mostly used. Aluminum needs high-powered and oxide-free welding. The welding process of aluminum may differ depending on its grade. It comes with great thermal conductivity to heat. Aluminum contains a natural oxide coating on its base that easily attracts contaminants. Therefore, you must clean and remove the coating during the welding process to avoid porosity.
- Copper
Copper is one of the most popular welding metals known for high electrical conductivity, heat conductivity, appearance, and corrosion resistance. Copper alloy and copper can be joined with the use of Arc welding. You must maintain the arc intensity during the welding process to finish the fusion of copper alloy and copper. You have to use a flat position while welding the copper alloy and the copper since, during the welding process, copper remains highly fluid. Before welding, you need to preheat the copper; however, the copper alloy must not be preheated due to its high thermal conductivity.
Where to get metal for welding?
You can buy online metals from leading metal suppliers for welding. If you are looking for Metal for welding purposes, consider a successful metal supplier in the industry who can offer you good quality metals. Look for metal suppliers with vast inventory who can offer you metals that can be used for welding. You can also buy metal from Home Depot, which carries metal for DIY fabrication projects and welding purposes. Home Depot sells various metals and can order in-store and online. Facebook marketplace is also great for getting metals for welding that too at low prices. You can also get scrap metal online for free.