Types of Welding Metals – [What You Can Weld Actually]

Are you a welding enthusiast with a welding project in mind? Is it making you think over and over about what types of welding metals should you use? Well, no matter the class of the welder machine you own, there are a number of metals that you can use to complete your project. For quality and professional results, you need to get a good metal. That means you need to get the right type of metal for the upcoming project.

However, choosing the right metal is not just about putting aluminum aside from carbon steel. That is why the article is also going to educate you on different types of welding metals to make sure you come up with a great project. But before that, let me give you an idea of familiar places where you are likely to get good metal for your welding project. While visiting the places, always stay true to the owner and the self.

Places to buy welding metal

• Online stores
• Retail chain stores
• Local hardware
• Forging stock

It has been widely described in another writeup here in our blog. So, it’s better we concentrate on our focused point of discussion – types of metals that you can weld for your purposes.

Types of Welding Metals

• Steel
• Stainless steel
• Aluminum
• Copper
• Cast iron
• Magnesium
• Nickel alloys

Steel & Stainless steel

Iron-metals like stainless steel and steel usually go well with higher techniques than other metals. The low-carbon steel is among the welding-friendly metals that you can find in the market. It incorporates fewer elements that lead to failed weld. Stainless steel comes with compound chemical composition, but can still enable numerous welding techniques.

Aluminum

Aluminum metals can easily undergo various welding practices. Also, the metal does not need much effort during the process since it is easy to handle. If you use proper welding operations as well as the filler material, aluminum will give excellent results.

Titanium

When you protect the metal from oxidation, you can meet durable and sturdy results. However, remember that the metal needs full coverage from the defensive gas so that you can get great results.

Cast Iron

Compared to metals like steel and aluminum, cast iron is hard to work with. The metal’s high carbon content needs you to pre-heat it carefully, making sure that you get gradual temperature change. Otherwise, you may find it hard to get good results with the metal.

Copper or Brass

The two metals are non-corrosive, which makes them ideal for various welding projects. However, as you work with the metal, make sure you take note of every alloy in the metal that may lead to oxidation or cracks.

Magnesium Alloy

The metal comes with properties that are similar to that of aluminum. The magnesium found on the alloy offers a lesser melting point when you compare it to the oxides. That is why you need first to remove the oxide before you begin welding.

Last Words

The ideal welding metal will depend on the project that you wish to undertake, the budget, experience, design, and the skills of the welder. The metal may also rely on the process of welding you want to to use. Almost any metal is usable; it is only that some are easier to weld while others are tough when it comes to coming up with defect-free and quality weld.