301 Bunker Hill Drive

Aitkin, MN 56431

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(218) 927-2400

info@elemetmfg.com

Categories
CNC Machining Metal Fabrication Waterjet Cutting Welding

Unlocking the Potential: 6 Benefits of End-to-End Product Manufacturing

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, efficient and streamlined product manufacturing processes are crucial for companies seeking to bring their products to market quickly and cost-effectively. One approach that has gained significant traction is end-to-end manufacturing production. 

In this article, we will explore the concept of end-to-end manufacturing production and highlight its numerous benefits to businesses. Elemet Manufacturing, a leading provider in this field, exemplifies the advantages of a comprehensive manufacturing management solution. If you’re looking to optimize your production process, Elemet Manufacturing has the expertise and resources to help. Contact Elemet Manufacturing today for more information.

 

Understanding End-to-End Product Manufacturing

Isometric industrial production line packaging new goods. Conveyor with gears, spare parts passing through metal detector. Man puts parcels in cardboard boxes.

End-to-end product manufacturing refers to a holistic approach where a single manufacturer takes responsibility for the entire lifecycle of a product, starting from the initial design concept to the delivery of the final finished goods. This approach eliminates the need for businesses to engage multiple companies for different manufacturing stages, simplifying the process and ensuring a more efficient and seamless production journey.

Overview of the Various Stages Involved

  • Product Design

The first stage in end-to-end product manufacturing is product design. This involves translating ideas, concepts, and specifications into a tangible design blueprint. The design team works closely with the client to understand their requirements and develop a design that meets their expectations. This stage focuses on creating a design that is both aesthetically pleasing and optimized for manufacturability.

  • Manufacturing Process

Once the design is finalized, the manufacturing process begins. This stage encompasses the actual production of the components or products based on the approved design. It involves various processes such as machining, fabrication, welding, and assembly, depending on the nature of the product. End-to-end manufacturing production ensures that the manufacturing team deeply understands the design intent, allowing for efficient production planning and execution.

  • Production of Finished Products

The final stage of end-to-end manufacturing production is the production of finished products. This involves quality control checks, finishing processes, and any additional value-added services required to complete the products. Finishing procedures may include surface treatments, painting, coating, or packaging, depending on the specific requirements of the products. The goal is to ensure that the finished products meet the desired quality standards and are ready for distribution or use.

 

Key Advantages of End-to-End Product Manufacturing

By opting for an end-to-end manufacturing approach, companies can reap a host of benefits, each contributing to a stronger, more efficient, and sustainable business model. The following sections look at the key advantages of this streamlined manufacturing method, which range from improved project management and substantial cost savings, to enhanced quality control, customization options, speed-to-market, and adherence to sustainable practices. Let’s explore each of these benefits in detail.

Streamlined Communication and Project Management

Working with a single manufacturer throughout the entire product manufacturing process offers a significant advantage in terms of streamlined communication and project management. 

When multiple manufacturers are involved in a project, communication and coordination can become complex and challenging. Each manufacturer may have different processes, timelines, and priorities, which can lead to misalignment and delays. However, businesses can benefit from a unified point of contact by choosing a single manufacturer, ensuring efficient communication and consistent project management.

A single manufacturer’s integrated approach ensures that the design, production, and finishing teams work closely together throughout the entire manufacturing process. By having all the units under one roof, they can collaborate seamlessly, share information, and address any potential issues promptly. This streamlined communication fosters a deeper understanding of the project requirements and enables real-time adjustments, resulting in a smoother and more efficient production journey.

Cost and Time Efficiency

Project management triangle; Time, Quality, Cost concept. Valuable tool for prioritizing and decision making.

End-to-end product manufacturing eliminates the need to engage multiple companies for different stages of the manufacturing process, resulting in significant cost and time savings. Businesses can enjoy reduced logistical complexities and streamlined processes by choosing the comprehensive manufacturing services of a company like Elemet, leading to cost and time efficiency.

When a project involves multiple product manufacturing companies, each company typically has its own pricing structure and profit margins. Engaging numerous companies for design, machining, finishing, and other manufacturing stages can result in higher costs due to markups at each stage. Additionally, the logistics of coordinating and managing multiple suppliers can be challenging, further adding to the overall expenses.

Businesses can consolidate their manufacturing needs under one roof by working with a single manufacturer. This eliminates the need for engaging and managing multiple companies, streamlining the procurement and production process. As a result, businesses can benefit from cost savings through economies of scale and a more transparent pricing structure.

Furthermore, the reduction in logistical complexities associated with engaging multiple manufacturers can lead to significant time savings. 

Consistent Quality Control

Maintaining consistent quality throughout the manufacturing process is paramount to any successful project. End-to-end manufacturing production offers a significant advantage in quality control. 

With Elemet Manufacturing’s comprehensive services, we ensure stringent quality checks at every stage. Having a single point of contact for quality assurance guarantees that your specifications and standards are consistently met. Our commitment to excellence is what sets us apart as a good manufacturer in the industry.

Greater Flexibility and Customization

End-to-end product manufacturing enables customers greater flexibility and customization options by offering a comprehensive range of services and expertise under one roof. With a single manufacturer handling the entire production process, customers have the flexibility to customize their products according to their specific requirements, whether it’s modifying the design, choosing materials, or incorporating unique features. 

The close collaboration between the design and manufacturing teams allows for real-time adjustments and iterative improvements, ensuring that the final product aligns perfectly with the customer’s vision. This level of flexibility and customization empowers businesses to create tailored solutions that meet their unique needs, fostering innovation and differentiation in the market.

Enhanced Speed to Market

End-to-end product manufacturing accelerates the time to market for products by reducing lead times, expediting prototyping, and streamlining production processes. With a single manufacturer handling all stages of manufacturing, there is no need to wait for coordination between multiple suppliers or deal with potential delays caused by external factors.

The seamless integration between design, prototyping, and production teams enables faster iterations and adjustments, allowing for rapid product development and validation. Furthermore, the consolidated expertise and resources within a single manufacturing facility promote efficient production processes, minimizing bottlenecks and optimizing workflows. 

This enhanced speed to market enables businesses to seize market opportunities, stay ahead of competitors, and capitalize on consumer demand in a timely manner.

Sustainable Manufacturing Practices

End-to-End Product Manufacturing - METAL FABRICATION

In an era of increasing environmental awareness, sustainability is a crucial consideration. End-to-end manufacturing production contributes to sustainable practices. At Elemet Manufacturing, we are dedicated to minimizing waste and optimizing energy efficiency throughout our processes. 

By choosing our services, you align your business with sustainable manufacturing practices, demonstrating your commitment to environmental responsibility.

 

Unlock the Full Potential of End-to-End Product Manufacturing

End-to-end manufacturing production offers a plethora of benefits for businesses seeking comprehensive manufacturing solutions. From streamlined communication and project management to cost and time efficiency, consistent quality control, greater flexibility, enhanced speed to market, and sustainable practices, the advantages are undeniable. 

Elemet Manufacturing stands ready to be your trusted partner, guiding you through the entire manufacturing process and ensuring your success. 

Are you ready to unlock the full potential of end-to-end manufacturing production? Contact Elemet Manufacturing today to discuss your manufacturing needs and experience the benefits firsthand.

Categories
CNC Machining Metal Fabrication Waterjet Cutting Welding

5 Essential Types of Manufacturing Services

Elemet Manufacturing is your go-to-market leader in advanced CNC machining services for aerospace, defense, medical, and industrial equipment manufacturers. Our cutting-edge machinery and specialized team of technicians demonstrate our excellence in precision machining and metal fabrication.

We utilize the latest technology, including 5-axis waterjet cutting, CNC milling, and metal fabrication, among others, to produce high-precision parts with tight tolerances. We provide a full spectrum of solutions in all production areas, from design to engineering and assembly, and can handle machining projects of any size or complexity. Here are the five manufacturing services available at Elemet Manufacturing; reach out to us for more information.

 

CNC Machining Manufacturing Services

CNC machining

CNC or computer numerical control machining uses computer-controlled equipment to produce precision-cut parts and metal components. The CNC machines operate based on programmed instructions, allowing for high accuracy and repeatability in the manufacturing process.

CNC machining controls grinders, lathes, and turning mills to cut, shape, and fabricate various metal parts and models. Machinists or CNC operators use mechanical engineering, technical drawings, mathematics, and computer programming to produce complex designs that are otherwise impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing methods.

 

5-Axis Waterjet Cutting Technology

5-Axis Waterjet Cutting Technology

5-axis waterjet cutting technology is an advanced manufacturing technique that accurately cuts various materials, including metals, foam, rubber, carpet, plastic panels, glass, marble, decorative stone, and stainless steel. During the production process, the system uses a high-pressure water stream and an abrasive substance to cut through even the most rigid materials with ease.

Abrasive waterjet cutting technology cuts intricate designs with high precision and accuracy. For angular cutting, the system employs a computer-controlled cutting head that moves in five different directions, including X, Y, Z, A, and B-axes. This allows a more precise and efficient cut, as the cutting head can make contact with difficult-to-reach angles and cut through materials with greater accuracy.

Waterjet cutting technology achieves high accuracy levels and detail without damaging the material because the cutting head is adjustable to match the density and thickness of any material. The cutting system can cut through thick sheets of stainless steel without producing thermal damage or distorting the material because the high-pressure water stream cools the material as it cuts.

 

Precision Welding Manufacturing Services

Precision Welding Manufacturing Services

The welding process joins two or more pieces of metal by melting the base materials and adding a filler to fuse the pieces. This manufacturing technique is widely used in the construction, automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing industry. Different base metals are utilized in welding, and various welding processes can be employed to perform many types of welds to produce quality parts.

Aluminum, brass, steel, copper, stainless steel, and titanium are examples of raw metals employed in welding. Modern welding machines are multi-functional and capable of performing numerous welding operations, making them ideal for various applications.

Many types of welds are created using welding processes such as Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG), Metal Inert Gas (MIG), stick, and laser welding. Note the welding techniques used depend on the joined materials, the application, and the required weld quality.

 

Metal Fabrication and Cutting Manufacturing Services

Metal Fabrication and Cutting Manufacturing Services

Elemet Manufacturing offers a wide range of metal fabrication processes, including metal bending, laser cutting, and metal surface finishing, to meet client specifications. We specialize in customized precision metal fabrication solutions, from prototyping to production.

Our team uses state-of-the-art CNC press brakes and tube bending equipment to bend and shape metal with precision, ensuring that each part is consistent and accurate. We employ advanced laser cutting machines to cut through various metals, including aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon steel, for highly accurate cuts.

Elemet’s engineering/manufacturing team has the expertise and equipment to provide one-off prototypes or full-scale production runs and produce highly accurate assemblies that meet quality control specifications. We are committed to providing high-quality, customized precision metal fabrication solutions and metal parts that meet the most exacting specifications.

 

Complementary Manufacturing Services offered by Elemet Manufacturing

Elemet Manufacturing offers complementary surface finishing services, specifically focusing on e-coating and powder coating, both of which significantly enhance the appearance and performance of metal parts. By adding a protective layer to the metal components, these surface finishing applications help mitigate corrosion and boost durability.

Our e-coating process, also known as electrocoating, provides uniform coverage even on complex shapes, ensuring comprehensive protection against corrosion and wear. This technique uses an electrical current to deposit paint or coating onto the metal part, resulting in a high-performance finish that excels in various industrial applications.

We also specialize in powder coating services, which involve applying a free-flowing, dry powder to a metal surface. This powder is then heated or cured along the production line, forming a protective layer that is both decorative and resistant to chipping, scratching, and fading. The powder coating process provides an attractive, durable, high-quality finish that enhances the lifespan of the metal part. 

 

Partner With Elemet Manufacturing for All Your Machining Needs

Elemet Manufacturing employs top-of-the-line machines to provide waterjet cutting, CNC machining, precision welding, and metal fabrication and cutting services in the industry. Thanks to our high-quality welding equipment, we can work with a variety of materials, including titanium and steel.

Companies requiring metal bending, cutting, and assembly can rely on our custom metal fabrication and laser-cutting manufacturing services. Contact Elemet Manufacturing today and request an estimate of your machining project.

Categories
Welding

Welding Procedures 101 and the Fundamentals of Welding

Welding is an engineering process by which two pieces of metal are joined together by heating them to high temperatures and fusing them into a joint. It is one of the most essential fabrication procedures with many applications in the automotive, construction, and manufacturing industries. 

Welding is increasingly benefiting from the development of modern technology – welding machines are more precise and reproduce higher quality welds than ever before. In addition, that technology allows fabrication processes to be both faster and safer. 

Technology advancements in TIG, Stick, and MIG welding procedures have refined welding, allowing for improved safety protocols, faster cycle times during production, and increased accuracy and quality control techniques in automated welding processes. The welding professionals at Elemet Manufacturing are experienced, qualified, and dedicated craftsmen ready to complete your next welding project.

 

Welding Procedures

Welding procedures - Welder doing welding project.

According to AWS, welding procedures are comprehensive practices and techniques in producing a weldment. A typical joint welding procedure includes detailed methods, materials, and practices that welders should employ to achieve the customer’s specified result.

The welding procedure records the elements, factors, and variables involved in creating a weldment or specific weld. Welders require these procedures in various cases to achieve the following:

  • Comply with certain codes and specifications
  • Maintain the proper dimension by controlling distortion
  • Consistently create a weldment the same way
  • Reduce detrimental metallurgical changes
  • Minimize residual stresses

 

Welding Procedure Specification

A welding procedure is only valuable for welding practices if its results can be tested, verified, and communicated to those who need to know. The parties involved include welding inspectors, designers, supervisors, and the welders themselves.

A welding procedure specification (WPS) is an important qualified document that communicates, in written form, the essential elements to perform a high-quality weld. It includes various requirements according to multiple codes and standards, as well as referencing relevant drawings and other documents for clarification, which describes the technical details of how you should implement a welding process. 

A qualified welder must have knowledge of the WPS and interpret all its elements in order to ensure that the work meets all necessary quality requirements. In short, this document serves as an explanation of how to reach welding objectives correctly.

 

Variables in Welding Procedures

Industrial woman welder teaches younger student how to weld metal with a torch

Welding procedure variables are essential components in welding techniques and operations. Welding procedures must consider not only the proper techniques specific to a joint but also the equipment and capabilities that come into play; any of these essential or nonessential variables can affect the quality of the weld.

The typical essential variables for welding procedures include:

  • The welding technique
  • Welding position
  • Method of applying process
  • Type of welding gun used
  • The welding process and its variation
  • The base metal geometry changes
  • Electrical or operational parameters involved

Other specifications that include nonessential variables are:

  • The polarity of the welding current
  • Specific details of the weld joint design
  • The travel progression
  • The use and type of weld backing
  • Size of the welding wire

The procedure write-up should include the listed variables and detail what welders should use to create the desired result. The second portion of the welding procedure will consist of the schedule of welding conditions and a list of the joint requirements.

 

Basic Types of Traditional Welding

Different welding procedures apply to different welding techniques. Technology has revolutionized welding, allowing it to be used in almost any environment, including under water and in the vacuum of space. Technically, welding combines two objects using molten metal and heat, resulting in a strong joint called a weld.

The three basic types of welding include:

  • Stick welding
  • Metal inert gas (MIG welding)
  • Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG welding)

Other welding variations include laser and plasma arc welding, but the three main types cover up to 90% of welding tasks globally.

 

Stick Welding Procedures

Stick welding, also known as Shield Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), is a technique that uses an electrode to provide the filler material and generate heat while simultaneously providing its own flux to protect the weld. This method joins two pieces of metal by melting both together at the joint. It can be used on any metals with a low melting point, such as aluminum, copper, magnesium, and mild steel. 

Stick welding has been an essential technique in many industries since it was invented due to its versatility and ability to join many different types of joints, from small beads to large fillet welds. It is the most common technique in use today due to its low equipment requirements, accessibility from suppliers, and ease of use.

 

MIG Welding Procedures

MIG welding is also easy to learn. The method works by feeding a filler wire on a welding torch and selecting the speed you want it to come out. It creates an arc allowing you to melt the wire directly on the joint. The resulting weld will be clean and strong. Welders prevent oxidation using gas, making it more expensive than stick welding.

 

Tig Welding Procedures

TIG welding is an arc welding process that involves using a non-consumable electrode and an arc with an inert shielding gas – typically argon or helium – to form the welded joint. TIG welding provides excellent versatility as virtually any type of metal, such as aluminum, stainless steel, and copper alloys can be worked on. 

The arc is created when current passes through a tungsten electrode, and filler wire is added by hand to increase the strength of the welded joint. The method allows welders to control the weld puddle and temperature to offer the best precision. Welds created by TIG welding are strong and aesthetically pleasing.

 

Welding Techniques That Meet Your Specifications

Today, welding is used in a broad range of industries, such as automotive, construction, manufacturing, shipping, and railroads. Highly-skilled welders create structures that power the global economy through ships, bridges, and skyscrapers. Overall, the scope of today’s welding projects is functional, efficient, and integral to driving progress in industries around the world.

Elemet Manufacturing is a first-class provider of precise welding services that can fulfill any need. With experienced and qualified craftsmen on staff, Elemet has all the necessary skills to handle any welding project, no matter the size or scope. Choose Elemet Manufacturing for your welding needs, and you can be assured that all your projects will meet or exceed your specifications.

Categories
Welding

How to Get Started in Machining and Welding Careers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the US currently employs more than 1.5 million welders. Opportunities in welding are expected to increase by about 8% from 2014-2024, which means that there will be more career opportunities in machining and welding jobs.

So how do I get to start a career in machining and welding? The first step in getting started with any career is finding out what you’re interested in and then going after it. If you want to get into welding or machining, here are some tips on starting your journey.

Read this guide to understand more about machining and welding and check out the careers available at Elemet Manufacturing.

How to Get Started in Machining and Welding Careers

Find a Mentor

A mentor can help guide you through the process of learning a trade and give you advice as you progress. You may also need to have a mentor if you’re looking for work while still in school.

Learn Basic Skills

The best way to learn a skill is through hands-on experience. This could mean volunteering at an organization that offers training programs or joining a local apprenticeship program.

Take Classes

Some schools offer courses specifically geared toward helping students prepare for careers in certain fields. For example, many colleges offer welding courses.

Others might have general education requirements such as English and math before allowing students to take specific coursework.

two gears meshing together with the words career path

What Are Some Different Career Paths in Machining and Welding?

When it comes to opportunities in welding and machining, there are several different areas where you can focus your efforts. These include:

  • Toolmakers: Help design tools used by other workers to perform their job
  • Machine operators: Operate machines that make products or parts
  • Maintenance technicians: Keep machinery running smoothly
  • Welders: Use heat and pressure to join metals together

Actually, these career paths aren’t all that different. You’ll spend most of your time working on equipment and using various tools in most cases. However, each area has its own set of responsibilities and duties.

What Industries Could You Work In?

You’ll find yourself working in almost any industry imaginable in machining and welding. You may even end up working for an organization with multiple divisions.

Some common industries that employ people with welding techniques include:

Aerospace

Aircraft manufacturers need skilled welders to produce planes, helicopters, and spacecraft. Aircraft manufacturing companies also need machinists to build engines, propellers, and other components.

Automotive

Vehicle manufacturers hire machinists and welders to help build cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more. These workers must be careful not to damage parts during assembly. They also must ensure that vehicles meet safety standards before being sold.

Construction

Many construction jobs involve building roads, bridges, homes, offices, and other structures. This means construction workers will need to use power tools and welding equipment to get the job done.

Energy

Oil refineries, coal mines, and nuclear plants all need skilled machinists and welders. In addition, energy companies need engineers to design pipelines, power stations, and other infrastructure projects.

apprentice and teacher working on machine at school workshop

Types of Certifications

Institutions have been training professionals in machining and welding since the early 1900s. Many organizations offer education for welding and machining to prepare students for careers as machinists and welders.

The following is a list of some of the more common certifications available today:

American Welding Society (AWS)

This organization has four levels of certification: Journeyman, Master Craftsman, Master Welder, and Fellow.

National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS)

This institute provides five levels of certification: Apprentice, Associate, Baccalaureate, Graduate, and Expert.

If you want to become certified, check with your local trade association or go online to see if it offers certification programs. If so, you should be able to find information about how to apply.

Getting Hired

After earning a certificate in machining and welding, the next step is looking for a job. The following section outlines a few ways to go about doing just that.

Apply Online

Searching for a job on the Internet is one of the best ways to find a position. Companies post their openings online, making it easy for anyone to apply.

Network With Other Professionals

It’s important to network when looking for work. Ask friends, family members, coworkers, and others what positions they know of that require machinists or welders.

Attend Trade Shows

Trade shows are great places to learn about new products and services. Attending these events allows you to talk to industry leaders about what they’re doing now and where they think the market is headed.

Join a Trade Association

Trade associations often hold networking events. Here people from different industries meet to share ideas and discuss business opportunities.

Joining a trade association may give you access to valuable contacts. Those contacts may be able to help advance your career.

blackboard with the words what you need to know about machining and welding

Why Machine and Welding Training Is Important

Machining and welding are two of the most common jobs in America. They are also among the fastest-growing occupations.

The demand for qualified workers will continue to rise as manufacturers seek to improve efficiency and reduce costs. As a result, there is a growing need for trained professionals in these areas.

Onboarding and training skilled workers is costly. Certifications show that you already have a basic set of skills to work with and are job-ready.

Specialized welding certificates can also put you in high demand, offer better job stability, and earn higher pay.

Get Started Today

Elemet Manufacturing is a leading manufacturer of metal fabrication equipment and supplies. Our goal is to provide our customers with quality products at competitive prices.

At Elemet, we believe in providing exceptional service and support to our customers. We take pride in our ability to listen to customer needs and respond quickly and efficiently.

Our highly skilled staff is committed to exceeding our customers’ expectations by offering superior technical expertise and outstanding customer service.

Machinists and welders play critical roles in this process. Their skills allow them to create precise parts and assemble complex machinery. By becoming certified, you’ll increase your chances of getting hired and finding a job that will enable you to make products needed in every industry imaginable.

For more information on machining and welding services and careers, contact us today!

Categories
Welding

Types of Welding: TIG vs. MIG vs. Stick Welding

Do you have a welding project but aren’t sure where to begin?

Does welding terminology confuse you? Are you worried you won’t understand the technicians at the welding shop?

If welding isn’t your area of expertise, it might be hard to find the right company to do the work.

A five percent failure rate is considered high in the industry. Meeting this stringent benchmark requires a professional team. 

At Elemet Manufacturing Inc., we offer a wide variety of types of welding processes. We work with many metals, including Aluminum, Brass, Copper, Galvanized steel, Stainless steel, and Titanium.

Our organized shop setup ensures improved control over the materials and workflow. You will receive the level of quality you expect. 

Contact Elemet Manufacturing Inc. to request an estimate today.

We can help you decide what welding process will best suit your welding needs.

Elemet Manufacturing is part of Elemet Group. We offer CNC machining, waterjet, and other cutting services, welding, and metal cutting and fabricating services. EMI is located in Aitkin, Minnesota.

Understanding the different types of welding is key to making the right choice for your project. 

We can help you understand the key features of each type of welding in this guide.

TIG Welding

A welder TIG welding. TIG welding is one of the types of welding.

The T in TIG stands for tungsten, which is the type of electrode used in this type of welding. It’s used because it can withstand high temperatures. The process involves arc welding with Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG). 

A professional welder can control both hands with accuracy. They hold the wire in one hand and the gun in the other, which gives them more precision. That’s important when you are working with thinner metals and smaller projects.

The rod generates the heat, which melts the metal wire that bonds the surfaces together. This process creates a smooth, beautiful weld and is used when the weld is going to be visible.

This type of welding is commonly used for aluminum and stainless steel metals. TIG welding is often used in the automotive industry, especially when the weld will be painted.  

TIG welding uses a constant voltage power supply. It’s used commonly when welding smaller pipes because of its precision.

MIG Welding

A closeup of MIG welding in progres. MIG welding is one of the types of welding

Metal Inert Gas is used in this type of welding. It’s the most common and the easiest to learn how to do. The external gas is used to shield the weld metal from things in the environment.

It allows the welder to operate quickly and reasonably continuously. The process involves a wire that feeds out of the welding gun. A spark comes from the end of the wire.

MIG welding is a more point-and-shoot process. It’s great for thicker metals. MIG also suits larger projects that need long continuous welding runs. It is perfect for projects using sheet metal.

Flux core arc welding is similar to MIG welding. It uses an electrode shielded from the air, making it a good option for outdoor use. The electrode is a hollow wire similar to a straw.  

A good welder can create beautiful smooth welds using a MIG welder. It takes experience and proper conditions. That’s another reason to find a professional shop to do your work. 

Stick Welding

A close up of stick welding.

Stick welding is the process most commonly used for more industrial welds. Stick welding will do the job when working on a bridge, outside storage tank, or pipeline. 

Stick welders are also great for structural steel, repairing farm equipment, and shipbuilding. If you want to weld sheet metal, use a TIG or MIG welder.

It’s great when the metal is not ideal because it can create a good bond in more challenging situations. It’s also the simplest setup of all the welding systems. Stick welding isn’t as neat as other welding methods.  

It uses a constant voltage power supply, similar to TIG welding. 

You can weld steel, stainless steel, nickel-based alloys, and chrome. You can also bond stainless steel to regular steel.

Stick welding is also your best choice for very thick metals of 1/16 inch or more. When the project is outdoors or in a drafty area, this is the welding process that suits your needs.

Stick welding is sometimes referred to as shielded gas metal arc welding. It’s also called manual metal arc welding. It’s good to know the terminology when you talk to professionals.

Decide Which Type of Welding is Right For You

A diagram Stick, Gas, MIG and TIG welding systems.

Understanding which welding process you need to use is the first step. Several factors come into the decision-making process.  

The first thing to consider is the type of metal you are working with. Thickness is one factor to think about, as some welders work better with thinner metals than others.

Is the weld going to be visible? Some welding techniques are better suited to surfaces that will be painted, such as automobiles.

The location of your project can influence which type of welding to consider. If the work can be done indoors in a professional shop, you have more options to choose from.

Finally, your budget might affect your decision.

We can help you consider all factors, so your project will be successful. 

Elemet Provides All Types of Welding

A finished weld

When you need quality welding, you want professionals. 

When you’re investing money in a project, you want to know the work will last. Hire our experienced team, and we will guide you in making the best choices for your welding project.

At Elemet Manufacturing Inc., we are focused on solutions to your manufacturing needs. To ensure your welds are strong and dependable, choose us for your welding project.  

Contact the experts at Elemet Manufacturing Inc.