Welding is a process used to join metals using a heat source that melts the parts and bounds them together upon contact, creating a joint. This may seem like an easy task but can be very intimidating and dangerous if not performed according to safety standards and in the proper way.
Although there are 70 different types of welding techniques, selecting the correct one for a specific purpose is crucial. Furthermore, it is imperative to consider safety before proceeding with any kind of welding procedure. Here we have enlisted some of the common mistakes that aviation welding technicians make, which can easily be avoided.
Not Wearing The Correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Though the process of welding is a remarkable innovation, it has several health hazards associated with it. These may vary from temporary to permanent damage such as hearing loss, loss of eyesight, burns, eye injuries, exposure to fumes or ultraviolet radiation.
Therefore, safety must be of highest priority for aviation welding technicians. Before beginning with the procedure, both beginners and professional aviation welders must wear adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This constitutes safety glasses, hearing protection, steel toe-boots, auto-darkening welding helmet, protective suit, and gloves. Moreover, it is best to perform the procedure on a welding table rather than on the ground or elsewhere.
Utilizing An Incorrect Welding Process
As mentioned before, there are several welding processes but choosing the correct one that fulfils our purpose is essential. For aviation welding technicians, the welding type they choose to utilize largely depends on the aircraft component they are about to weld. If the wrong welding process is employed, it can result in a costly mistake.
Therefore, to execute an accurate welding job, the welder must carefully examine all the plausible processes that he can employ to weld an aircraft part. Then select the one that yields the highest efficiency, is safe to do, and has minimal chances for errors or damage.
Not Being In The Right Mental Or Physical State Before Welding
A welding procedure can be intimidating for many, especially for beginners. This is because firstly it involves health hazards. Secondly, it can permanently damage the object if anything goes wrong, which may cost a fortune to repair or replace. Hence, most aviation welding technicians suffer from pre-welding anxiety.
The best practice to avoid this anxiety is to perceive how calm and comfortable you are before the process. If you feel physically and mentally at ease, only then start with the procedure. When you strike an arc to begin try not to concentrate a lot on the bead because it may cause tension in your muscles. It is hard in the beginning, but with practice, you can master it.
Moreover, if you are in a comfortable mental or physical state before welding, you'll not only ace the task, but you'll do it efficiently and timely.
Not Preparing The Base Material Well Enough
Successful welding depends on the excellent preparedness of the base material. Aviation welding technicians must consider it before their welding procedure, as the entire process may fail otherwise. Preparing the base metal involves cleaning its surface well. It also includes removing any oil or aluminum contamination before beginning the process.
The process of aviation welding can be overwhelming and demoralizing following any failures. However, it is essential to not give-up and stay persistent. The way to master any technique is to keep practicing.
About Acorn Welding
Acorn Welding is your top-quality one-stop-shop for aircraft exhausts and engine mounts. We also provide expert repair and maintenance for radial, vintage, commercial, and privately-owned aircraft in Alberta, Canada. For more information, visit our website, or contact us today for personalized service.
