Processing and Manufacturing Chemicals: Tips for Workplace Safety

Welding is one of the processes by which metal parts are joined together in the fabrication process. There are several different kinds of welding processes that can be used, but one of the most commonly used processes in the metal fabrication industry is oxy-acetylene welding. Despite being one of the oldest welding processes, many welders continue to use oxy-acetylene welding because of the unique benefits it offers.

If you are new to the metal fabrication industry, here is a breakdown of some of the benefits associated with oxy-acetylene welding process.

Adaptability

The oxy-acetylene process is popular for its flexibility since it can be used to weld most types of metal materials. Aside from that, it can be used in different fabrication applications like cutting metal. All you have to do to switch to the cutting process is to replace the welding tip with a cutting tip. And, unlike Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding, which can only be used indoors to shield the molten weld pool from reacting with elements in the atmosphere, oxy-acetylene machinery can be used almost anywhere.

Quick learning curve

For novice welders out there, oxy-acetylene is an easy-to-learn process. Unlike other welding processes like MIG, people can perform oxy-acetylene welding with a bit of practice and skill. The high-temperature flame used in the fusion welding process is directed by the power source (a welding torch), which performs practically all the work as it fine-tunes welding parameters to suit the requirements of different conditions. 

Cost-friendliness

If you want a pocket-friendly welding solution, you had better opt for the oxy-acetylene process because the needed equipment generally costs less to buy as compared to several other types of equipment used to perform other welding processes. However, keep in mind that the amount of cost savings realised may differ depending on the model or brand of equipment you purchase.

Independent power source

Oxy-acetylene welding equipment gets power supply from external energy sources. The equipment comes with steel cylinders that contain a mixture of acetylene and oxygen gases kept under pressure. With these independent power sources, there are no worries about power outages in the mains electricity supply line disrupting the welding process.

Portability

Because they are relatively lightweight, oxyacetylene welding machinery tends to be more easily portable as compared to other welding machines available for use by welders. They can be carried on the back of a pick-up truck or even on a person's back.