Metal fabrication has deep roots in ancient human civilization. After the realization of their value to society, metals became an integral building material for humanity. Machinery followed shortly thereafter. Needless to say, a wide array of metals intermingle with these superseded tools of the past and modern technologies of the present. In this day and age, metal fabrication projects are common endeavors for welding shops. Welding remains a popular hobby and rewarding career.
If you desire to start a fabrication or welding shop as a business venture, be aware that the right equipment plays a critical role in the jobs you can take on. Depending on the selected services of work you will provide, you will find that assorted types of specialized tools and accessories are necessary for growth. These shops require a set of tools and gear for the projects that lie ahead. We’ve compiled a general list of equipment needed to start a welding business. Here’s what to consider.
Welding Workbench or Table
Keep size, surface, storage, and setup factors in mind during workbench selection. Comfort, durability, and sturdiness are must-have characteristics of good welding tables. Steel tables with thick tops and stable legs ensure project success, no matter the weight load. The right height will also make tasks less cumbersome. Your best option depends on shop size, services, and budget.
Common Elements: Safety Gear
Various helmets, aprons, gloves, and pairs of goggles should remain near the top of the list of equipment needed to start a welding business. Harmful or lethal hazards are certainly major concerns in a welding shop. Safety is top priority in this industry due to the production of high temperatures and the involved project elements. Before any person touches a welding setup, they should don face, ear, body, hand, and feet protection.
Welding Clamps and Measuring Tools
Welding is a precise science that requires dedicated tools for measuring workpieces. Your selection depends on preferences for the success of your projects. Welding properly and adequately is also impossible without quality clamps to fit pieces together. Common sense is surely a necessity, but having enough clamps on hand proves useful in an assortment of situations.
Charged Electrodes and Selected Setup Welders
Electrodes are vital for providing the heat of a weld, passing the current from the tooltip to the project material for fabrication. Choices of electrodes depend on the type of metal and the categorized welding system setup.
The perfect weld is only possible with a combination of a set power supply, required cabling, and a torch machine. Selecting the right system is arguably the leading decision when starting a welding business. MIG welders are fairly versatile, while TIG welders offer specializations for more programmable welding.
The perks of orbital welding systems are far and wide in various industries, but again, your choice depends upon preference and technological requirements. Your business will ultimately remain influenced by the abilities and performance of your welding setup and choice of equipment.
