Welding is a sculptural process that joins materials by causing coalescence. Since the first examples of welding emerged during the Middle Ages, the welding process has transformed. Now, there is a variety of welding processes and applications. Learn a brief history of welding here:
Welding in the Middles Ages
Welding has been traced back as early as the Bronze Age. Some of the earliest examples of welding as small, circular boxes made of gold, which appear to have been made by pressure welding lap joints together.
The 1800s
Between the discovery of an arc in between carbon electrodes using a battery in 1800 and acetylene in 1836, the early 1800s was a time of huge advancements in welding. Welding was further advanced in 1880 when Auguste De Meritens used the heat from an arc to join lead plates for battery storage. From here, one of De Meritens’ students was granted a patent for welding before creating an electrode holder. This was ultimately the beginning of carbon arc welding which would become popular in later years.
The Early 1900s
The early 1900s brought even more developments to the world of welding. At the turn of the century, Strohmenger introduced a specially coated metal electrode while Oscar Kjellberg invented a covered electrode. Both of these greatly influenced and advanced welding and lead to further developments.
Resistance welding processes were also developed during this time, which included spot, seam, projection, thermite, and flash butt welding.
Gas welding and cutting were also on the rise during the early 1990s. This was thanks in part to the development of low-pressure acetylene. Following these practices was stud welding, which was developed during the early 1930s.
The Mid to Late 1900s
The mid-1900s saw a rise in the use of gas tungsten arc welding—a process that was developed at the Battelle Memorial Institute. This process made welding magnesium, stainless steel, and aluminum convenient.
1953 was a monumental year in the history of welding because the use of welding with consumable electrodes in CO2 gas was announced. This immediately became a favorable process because it utilized equipment that was specially developed for gas metal arc welding but could also be used for welding steel in an economical way.
Modern Welding Practices
There are many types of modern welding processes, but one of the newest is laser welding. Laser welding is beneficial because it creates a large concentration of energy in a small space while being a powerful source of heat. As a result, it can cut metals and nonmetals with ease.
Tampa Steel & Supply, the One Stop Shop for Welders
Welding has been an important invention through ancient and modern times. Without it, we wouldn’t get have cars to drive or buildings to live in. At Tampa Steel & Supply, we understand how important welding processes are, which is why we stock all of the steel and welding products you need for your next project. We carry all of the fabrication accessories you need, including wires, rods, and other welding supplies. Check out all of the quality products we offer or give us a call today to speak with one of our friendly team members.
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