a welder joins two steel plates with a bright arc, producing sparks in a dimly lit workshop, showing intense heat and focused precision

Does Welding Weaken Metal? What Welders Need to Know About Heat and Strength

Welding opens up a world of possibilities, from building heavy-duty trailers to fixing busted brackets in your garage. But if you’ve ever worried whether welding makes the metal around your joint weaker, you’re not alone. It’s a valid concern—and one that’s worth understanding. The short version? Welding can weaken metal, but it doesn’t have to….

Are 3-in-1 Welders Any Good? Exploring the Pros and Cons

Are 3-in-1 Welders Any Good? Exploring the Pros and Cons

Choosing the right welder can be a challenge, especially with the growing popularity of versatile 3-in-1 welders. These machines combine MIG, TIG, and Stick welding functions in one device, promising convenience and flexibility. But are they really worth the investment? What Are 3-in-1 Welders? 3-in-1 welders are multi-process machines designed to handle multiple welding techniques….

Choosing the Best All-Purpose Welding Rod: A Complete Guide

Choosing the Best All-Purpose Welding Rod: A Complete Guide

Finding the right welding rod for multiple applications can save you time, money, and frustration. Whether you’re tackling repairs, structural work, or fabrication projects, an all-purpose welding rod can simplify your workflow. But which rod strikes the best balance between versatility, strength, and ease of use? Let’s dive in. What Makes a Welding Rod ‘All-Purpose’?…

Best Gas for Stainless MIG Welding: Finding the Perfect Blend for Quality Welds

Best Gas for Stainless MIG Welding: Finding the Perfect Blend for Quality Welds

Welding stainless steel requires precision, skill, and the right materials — especially when it comes to shielding gas. The correct gas choice can drastically impact the strength, appearance, and durability of your welds. For stainless MIG welding, selecting the ideal gas blend is crucial for reducing oxidation, improving arc stability, and achieving clean weld beads….

Two gas cylinders labeled Argon and C25 stand side by side in a welding workshop, with a welder working in the blurred background. Overlaid text reads "MIG vs TIG Gas: Are They the Same?" with welderology.com at the bottom.

Do MIG and TIG Welding Use the Same Gas? Understanding the Key Differences

When starting out in welding, one common question is whether MIG and TIG welding can use the same shielding gas. While both processes rely on gas to protect the weld pool, their gas requirements are distinct. Understanding the differences can significantly impact weld quality and efficiency. The Role of Shielding Gas in Welding Shielding gas…

Is MIG or TIG Better for Welding Aluminum?

Is MIG or TIG Better for Welding Aluminum?

Aluminum welding requires skill and precision due to the metal’s high thermal conductivity and oxidation properties. Whether you choose MIG (Metal Inert Gas) or TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding depends on the thickness of the material, the desired finish, and the level of control needed. Both processes have their advantages and drawbacks, making it essential…

A photograph captures welding action up close, focusing on a 7018 electrode creating a steady arc with visible sparks and molten metal.

Best Amperage for 7018 Welding Rod: Fine-Tune Your Settings for Cleaner Welds

Getting your amperage dialed in can make or break your weld—especially when you’re working with 7018 rods. These low-hydrogen electrodes are a staple in structural work, fabrication, and general-purpose stick welding. But they only perform at their best when the amps are just right. Let’s break down the best amp ranges for different rod sizes,…

A welder performing TIG welding on a polished aluminum sheet, with visible arc light and filler rod in motion.

Best Welding Technique for Aluminum and How to Get It Right

Aluminum welding isn’t the same as welding mild steel. It heats up fast, cools quickly, and doesn’t always give you time to react. But if you’re using the right technique—and you’ve got your machine set up properly—you can absolutely get strong, clean welds that hold up and look good too. Here’s a breakdown of the…

A collage of four close-up photographs captures a welder in full gear performing welds in flat, vertical, horizontal, and overhead positions, with sparks and arc light vividly visible in a workshop setting.

Welding Positions and Techniques: Master Every Angle Like a Pro

Welding is more than just striking an arc—how and where you weld makes a huge difference in the outcome. Whether you’re laying beads on a flat bench or reaching overhead to patch up a frame, mastering different positions and techniques is essential for strong, clean welds. Each welding position brings its own challenges. And knowing…

A photograph captures a MIG welding torch in close-up, showing the nozzle, handle, and trigger details with a blurred metal workbench in the background.

What Is a Welding Torch Used For? Understanding the Tool That Makes the Spark

Welding torches are at the heart of every weld you make. They’re the tool you hold, direct, and depend on to channel heat, wire, and gas to the exact spot where metal fuses together. Whether you’re just getting started or upgrading your setup, understanding what a welding torch does—and how to choose the right one—makes…