Welding is an exciting way to make a good living, with lots of opportunities to specialize and work in diverse environments. In order to perform any job, welders need specialized tools and training. Some standard types of tools welders need include: protective equipment, welding devices, measuring aids, and tools for finishing a weld.
Protection for Welders
Welders need protective equipment no matter what kind of welding they do.
- Special darkened welding helmets protect welders’ eyes from the extremely bright welding arcs they see daily.
- Welding gloves and welding jackets protect skin from being burned and safeguard your clothes from any flames.
- Visors and safety glasses are worn to protect the face when not welding.
- Welders wear steel-toed shoes to protect their feet from falling objects in the shop.
- Ear protection is worn to protect welders from loud noises.
- Because welders work with fire, fire extinguishers are kept on hand to prevent accidental fires.
Welding Equipment
The most important parts of welding are the welding torches and tools themselves. Depending on the type of welding the welder chooses to pursue, he or she will need slightly different tools; however, the basics are the same in most types of welding.
- Welding machines heat the electrodes to create an electrical arc.
- The arc melts welding wire to fill the cracks between the metals being joined and forms a tight bond.
The composition of the electrode and welding wire varies based on what kind of welding the welder does and what the job requires.
Learn more about the different types of welding.
Measuring Tools for Welders
Welding requires accuracy, so having the right measurements are important.
- Levels and squaring tools ensure welds are perfectly straight and at the correct angle.
- Clamps hold the items being welded perfectly still so the welder can turn over perfect results.
- Welding magnets hold welds where clamps cannot; they also have exact angles on each side to assist the welder.
- Soapstone is also used by welders to make temporary marks on their projects. It is unique because it can be seen even when the welder has their dark visor over their face!
Tools for Finishing the Weld
A perfect weld isn’t complete until the welder cleans the excess and stray metals on the project.
- Chipping hammers remove welding slag and spatter (byproducts of the welding process) from the project.
- To remove excess metal, cut the project, polish it, or remove finer excess, a welder may also use an angle grinder.
- A welder can also use hand files to round out rough edges and remove burrs to finish a project.
The Best Tool for Any Welder
- Knowledge is the most important tool welders can have.
You deserve a fantastic education, and our partner schools provide excellent training. Welding programs are designed to show you how to use these tools, and how to do so safely.
You can be career-ready with training as short as 10 months! Get started today.
