Archive: Jun 2023

Welding Techniques

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Welding is the heart of our operation at American Alloy. We use different welding techniques because no two jobs are ever quite the same. Some demand absolute purity, others maximum strength. What sets us apart is how we match each weld to its real-world application, using proven welding techniques every step of the way.

TIG Welding: Precision and Cleanliness

When it comes to ultra-clean, high-purity welds, our TIG welding services lead the way. This method uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and an argon shielding gas to keep the weld zone protected and precise. It’s our go-to method for materials like thin stainless steel or nickel alloys, anywhere that even trace contamination can’t be allowed.

We regularly use TIG in industries such as:

  • Pharmaceutical
  • Food and beverage
  • Biotechnology
  • Chemical processing

Our TIG welding services offer several key advantages:

  • Minimal spatter, making cleanup easier and welds cleaner
  • Precise heat control to avoid distortion in sensitive areas
  • Strong, corrosion-resistant joints for long-term reliability
  • The ability to weld fine details or intricate components

Whether it’s orbital tubing or manual pipe welding, TIG is the clear choice when accuracy and cleanliness are non-negotiable.

MIG Welding: Speed Meets Strength

For projects that demand efficiency and fast turnaround, our MIG welding services deliver every time. By feeding a consumable wire electrode through a welding gun and protecting the weld with shielding gas, we achieve solid joins with clean results, ideal for high-output environments.

Our skilled welders use MIG for:

  • Large tank fabrication
  • Structural components
  • Frames, supports, and brackets
  • Mild steel and aluminum assemblies

The advantages of MIG welding services include:

  • High deposition rates for faster welds
  • Easy automation and repeatability
  • Cleaner finish with less slag to remove
  • Suitable for thicker materials and long seams

MIG is particularly well-suited for production-scale jobs where speed and strength are critical, without sacrificing quality or consistency.

Stick Welding: Tough and Versatile

When working in outdoor or rugged environments, we turn to our expert stick welder team for Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW). This versatile method uses a consumable, flux-coated electrode and is ideal for heavy materials, field installations, and repairs.

We use stick welding in:

  • Power plants and chemical refineries
  • Structural steel assembly
  • Maintenance and repair projects
  • High-wind or outdoor conditions

Why choose a stick welder?

  • No external shielding gas required
  • Performs well in windy or dirty environments
  • Strong welds on thick or corroded surfaces
  • Cost-effective for fieldwork and low-volume fabrication

While not as clean as TIG or as fast as MIG, stick welding remains a vital part of our capabilities, especially when reliability and adaptability matter most.

Choosing the Right Welding Technique

Not every project demands the same process. Our experienced engineers and welders assess multiple factors before selecting the best method, including:

  • Base metal type and thickness
  • Joint accessibility
  • Code compliance and inspection criteria
  • Structural vs. sanitary requirements
  • Environmental conditions (e.g., cleanroom vs. field)

This tailored approach ensures every weld, from a pharmaceutical-grade pipe to a chemical reactor support frame, is executed with the appropriate process and utmost attention to detail.

Why American Alloy Fabricators?

What sets us apart isn’t just time in the field, it’s the depth of technical knowledge we bring to each job. We’ve mastered a wide range of different welding techniques and back it up with ASME Section IX certifications, full weld documentation, and traceable inspection records.

Clients trust us because:

  • We deliver X-ray and dye-penetrant-tested welds
  • Our welders are cross-trained in multiple methods
  • We meet critical industry certifications
  • Every weld is backed by quality control from start to finish

Let’s Talk Welding

From sanitary systems to structural welds, we’ve got the capability and the crew. Our certified team delivers precision TIG welding services, high-output MIG welding services, and field-proven results from our skilled stick welders. No matter the application, we’ll help you choose the best welding strategy to get it done right.

Contact us today or request an estimate. Let’s talk about how our welding techniques can be customized for your next job.