A career in welding involves quite a bit of math. If you aren't mathematically inclined, this may sound intimidating; however, know the math welders use is not complicated. Read on to learn more about the type of math welders use every day on the job.
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Why is Math Important to Welders
Typically, as a welders complete tasks every day that require numbers. From taking measurements to loading your truck with steel for a job, you’ll be doing basic "math". Accurate counting and basic adding and subtracting are important if you don’t want to waste time and materials.
The basic arithmetic you learned in high school or for your GED should be enough. You’ll find yourself picking up where you left off once you get in class again. For those wanting to brush up before school, the American Welding Society offers self-paced online math courses.
However, if you ask those in the field, they’ll tell you that your instructors can show you all you need to know. Additionally, many training programs will have tutoring options for extra help.
Fractions and Decimals for Welders
To read blueprints for your work, you’ll need to be comfortable with fractions, which often need to be converted into decimal points. And no matter what you thought you felt about math before, you’ll get to where you do these basic conversions in your head.
Geometry for Welders
Welders use geometry every day to figure out correct angles, diameters, and circumferences so their welds are done right the first time. You’ll also determine your needed supplies for a project this way. By the time training is complete, you should be able to use compasses and triangles like a pro.
Formulas and Trigonometry for Welders
To make sure your welds are strong, you’ll be applying trig knowledge. Like geometry, trigonometry deals with angles, so you’ll use it more when doing more advanced metalwork.
Math in Welding? No Problem
Though it may seem intimidating, applying the things you learned in math class to welding isn't particularly hard; it can even make a lot more sense when you apply it in the real world. Now that you've heard it’s manageable math, it should feel pretty exciting! To top it all off, you can even be career-ready in as few as 10 months!
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