Arc welding services are economical and time efficient welding processes. You can use arc welding for joining ferrous and some nickel based alloy parts. You can also weld non-ferrous parts using arc welding, however that is usually not economical. There are various types of arc welding techniques, such as electric arc welding, submerged arc welding and plasma arc welding.

In electric arc welding, an electric arc generates intense heat that joins the parts. However, this technique may create surface defects and lead to corrosion. For deep and narrow welds where the focus is on thermal distortion and welding speed, try using plasma arc welding. As plasma arc welding is a complex process, it needs a skilled arc welder. The submerged arc welding process is similar to the plasma arc welding, however it uses special arc welding machines that use flux material to protect the arc zone and molten weld.

Some important parameters you must consider before selecting arc-welding services are:

1. Material, size, shape and weight of parts to be welded
2. Type of power supply to be used for example direct or alternating current
3. Arc voltage to be attained
4. Type of electrodes to be used for example consumable or non-consumable
5. Welding speed
6. Type of arc welding machine available with the service provider

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Locate a service provider that provides arc welding services

Once you understand your fabrication requirements, evaluate companies that provide arc-welding services.

I recommend: American Welding Services is a reputable service provider that offers both onsite and offsite arc welding services. Midwest Machining and Fabrication, a division of The Minster Machine Company, also provides arc welding services.

Contact a company to rent arc welding equipment

Hire an experienced arc welder and lease arc welding equipment to perform welding of your products under your supervision.

I recommend: B & G Rentals is a reputable company that offers arc welding equipment and arc welding accessories for rental. Gas and Supply is another reputable company that provides arc welding supplies, including a number of arc welding machines for rental.

Contact a reputable company that provides specialty or custom services for arc welding

If you have a specific requirement for the fabrication of your components, you can contact a company that offers special welding services such as submerged arc welding or plasma arc welding.

I recommend: Central Maintenance and Welding is a reputable company that provides specialty fabrication services, such as submerged arc welding. Weldmation is another reputable specialty arc welding services provider that employs robotic assembly systems for complex welding jobs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Check turnaround time for the fabrication job before you use the services from a welding service provider.
• •  Preferentially use an ISO or ASME certified arc welding services provider. Details and credentials are available on most of the arc welders' website.