5 Need-to-Know Tips for Getting Started with Welding
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Joining metals and melting parts together can be a lucrative profession as well as a handy hobby. In the age of college-educated professionals, technical trades have become, what some would consider, a lost art. It’s hard and sweaty work, but welding is a really interesting practice to learn. Here are some tips to get you started.
1) Do Some Research
If the only part of welding that you know is that there are a big face mask and a blue flame, then you need to start with research. The internet is an amazing thing, with just a little bit of effort you can learn all about the different welding methods and be able to pick up welding terminology. There have been plenty of books written about hobby welding as well that will get you up to speed if you’re not big on internet research.
2) Purchase Materials
The upfront purchase of welding materials is where the majority of the investment comes from. Fortunately, there are so many places that carry welding supplies– your local hardware store should carry at least some of what you need. For materials that you can’t seem to find locally or aren’t interested in searching for, you can always order welding kits online. This would give you the chance to research and review the different brands of equipment.
3) Find a Mentor
What interested you in welding in the first place? Hopefully, it’s because you know someone or met someone that could answer some questions for you. Having a mentor in any line of work or hobby can be an invaluable asset– especially when you are just learning. Mentors serve as a sounding board for questions that you may be afraid to ask anyone else and the best part about having a great mentor, aside from the personal connection, is knowing that someday, you will get to be a mentor yourself.
4) Take a Class
Welding can be a dangerous art to teach yourself. Of course, it can be done, but taking a class at a technical school wouldn’t take very much time or money. The best part about taking a class is that you’d know that you’re learning the correct and recognized way. Having a safe and instructive area to practice in can also help facilitate any learning curves that you may encounter along the way.
5) Get Certified
The American Welding Society offers certifications for welders that are looking to advance their careers. This association can certify you for basic welding all the way up to robotic arc welding and inspection. Certification can serve as a great way to prove to future employers or even side-job clients that you know what you’re doing. As a hobbyist, this may not be important to you, but it’s a valuable way to add some side income to your current job.
So that’s it, whether you’re interested in welding as a profession or welding for a hobby, you can get started with five steps. Researching before starting is really important to help you get familiar with the terminology associated with welding. Finding a mentor and taking a class will expand your knowledge and give you a safe space to practice your new-found skill set. Purchasing welding supplies and getting certified are the last steps before you can officially call yourself a welder and begin practicing professionally.
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