History of Welding
Welding goes back many years ago originating in the ancient times. While no one knows exactly who derived the process of forming types of metal together by some process and when, it is estimated to have been practiced as far as 2000 years ago in the Bronze Age. Researchers have found small gold circular boxes that show evidence of someone fusing them by pressing pieces of metal together, otherwise known as pressure welding.
The next evidence of the welding process was dated back about 1000 years ago from the Egyptians. Iron that was formed together has been discovered along with tools that indicate some form of the welding process.
One of the most commonly known form of welding present in ancient times was during the Middle Ages. Armament, or weapons and protection equipment, had a high demand during this time of knights, chivalry, war, and honor. Blacksmiths would form their equipment out of medal by using the welding method of heat and hammering.
It wasn't until the 19th century that the technique of welding so widely used today started to form and be perfected. Throughout the years between the 1800's until now, many different forms of welding have been created for different purposes.
1800:
Gas welding and cutting
Resistance welding used for joining
1880:
Carbon arc welding used for iron and lead
1890:
Metal arc welding used for fillers and molds
1900:
Resistance welding is perfected and additional methods are created
Spot welding
Seam welding
Projection welding
Flash butt welding
1903:
Thermite welding used for railroad rails
1914: World War I caused a large demand for armament production creating an opportunity for welding.
1920:
Automatic welding used for worn motor shafts, worn crane wheels, and rear axle housings in the automobile industry
Gas Shielding techniques invented to shield the arc and weld areas in order to prevent brittle and porous welds
1930:
Stud welding created by the Navy for attaching wood decking to a metal surface. Used in the boat industry
1940:
Gas tungsten arc welding used for magnesium, stainless steel, and aluminum
1950:
CO2 Welding used for all-position welding as well as thin material welding
Dualsheild which is the process of external shielding with gas to protect the welding area
Plasma arc welding used for metal spray and cutting
Electroslag welding which uses the process of electro-molding and is utilized for the fabrication of welded diesel engine blocks
1960:
Vertical welding method which uses elecrto gas, best for thin metals that need to be welded with the electroslag process
Electro beam welding used in the automotive and aircraft engine industries
1980 until now:
Friction welding which integrates the process of inertia welding
Laser welding which is used for similar purposes as the plasma arc welding but delivers more precision
Similar to electronics, automobiles, healthcare, and many other innovative subjects, the welding industry is ever changing with new technology and methods that help make the welding process easier and more efficient. As soon as a new method is discovered, the next idea is on the horizon waiting to be tested. Although McArthur Welding enjoys tradition and respects the past, we don't turn away from the innovative future. Welding has been a necessity since the ancient times and it will continue to help add security, convenience, and flair to homes, cars, buildings, and machinery used by everyone all around the world.
