What is Stud Welding?
Although there are various forms of welding, stud welding has become a popular method amongst the
construction and shipbuilding industries. First developed on the west coast back in 1930, stud
welding attaches various studs and fasteners that are end-joined to a metal work piece instantly.
This method of welding is very complete, a one-man operation, and the whole process takes mere
milliseconds to accomplish. Because there are various forms, it is very important to know which method
would be appropriate for the welding job you have in mind.
Arc Stud WeldingArc stud welding involves the use of an electric arc as a means of melting the stud and the piece of metal at the welding point, while using direct (DC) or alternating (AC) current. An arc weld stud is then plunged into the metal and a strong quality full penetration cross section weld is established. Arc weld studs will come in all shapes and sizes but is suitable for welding to heavier based metals. Large diameter fasteners are used, with one end being specifically designed just for arc stud welding. Materials that are suitable for arc welding include stainless steel, mild steel, and aluminum.CD Stud WeldingCapacitor Discharge (CD) stud welding is the welding of smaller diameter CD weld studs to thinner more lightweight materials. It utilizes stud welding equipment that uses a tip as a timing device and then melts to solidify the weld to the base material. This form of welding minimizes the buildup of heat which results in welds with little distortion, discoloration, or burning. This makes this form of welding ideal for products that rely heavily on appearance. CD weld studs can be manufactured into any shape; with the only requirement being that one end of the fastener is designed specifically for CD welding. Materials appropriate for CD stud welding are thin and sheet metal grade material.There are many benefits to stud welding, but the main one would be cutting costs. Because this method is highly effective and requires just one person, labor and material costs are kept to an absolute minimum. It reduces the amount of time spent on the project and eliminates the need for any further operations. Spotfacing, drilling, undercutting, manual soldering, or tapping are all unnecessary when incorporating this method. This form of welding is also recognized as a stronger welded joint versus the more traditional methods. Look into stud welding for any future projects that you may require the money and time saved will be well worth it. Sunbelt Production SystemsSunbelt Stud Welding located in Houston, Texas has been a manufacturer and distributor of stud welding products for over 20 years. They offer quality products for all your stud welding needs which include CD weld studs, Arc stud welding equipment, rental stud welders, and various stud welding parts and accessories. Sunbelt also offers technical assistance and installation services that you may require. To determine your stud welding requirements visit: www.sunbeltstudwelding.com or call toll free 1-800-462-9353 to speak with a live representative today. |