Depending on the aircraft, different welding methods and procedures are used. The aircraft's specifications dictate what can be done and how it must be done. You might be wondering whether aviation welding technicians weld each aircraft in the same way. Not every type of aircraft can be welded with one technique.
The aircraft welding sector is exempt from this requirement. Each aircraft has certain unique characteristics that set it apart from other aircraft types. To save money and increase structural integrity, welds are replacing rivets in a range of components in both military and commercial aircraft.
In many areas of the fuselage of big commercial aircraft, laser-beam welding will soon take the place of rivets. This blog post discusses the factors that decide which method should be used when welding an aircraft.
Difference In Metal
To produce a wide range of aircraft styles and models, aircraft manufacturers use a wide range of aircraft components, especially metal parts. Since metal is the main component in welding, the process differs depending on the metal used. Aluminum components can’t be welded in the same manner as iron ones can.
Due to the differences in how each metal reacts to heating during welding, each has unique properties. As a result, welding professionals must weld various metals in different ways.
The Different States Of The Metal
The existing condition of the metal also affects how aviation welding specialists will carry out the repair processes. The state of the metal affects a variety of welding factors, including welding type, heat, execution, and preprocess preparations.
Additionally, the condition of the metal has a major role in the choice of whether or not to weld. After a certain point, welding it could be useless if it's a really old object, like a vintage airplane.
Size Of The Aircraft
The pressure and weight an airplane puts on its metal parts are directly correlated to its size. To properly implement the technique, welding professionals must be cautious and careful. The welding junction has to be strong enough to support the weight and dimensions of the aircraft.
In addition to having greater weight, heavier aircraft also have more metal surfaces to contend with. The size of the aircraft affects the welding arc, heat regulation, and other technical elements.
Also Read: What Are The Signs Of Good & Bad Welding?
Number Of Flights
There is a significant difference between two similar airplanes if one takes to the air daily and the other only does so once a month. These two aircraft will require distinct welding strengths, strategies, and execution procedures.
The more flights an aircraft makes, the likelihood of wear and tear increases. To be able to handle more wear and tear, welding work must be made stronger and more durable. On the other hand, aircraft that rarely fall in flight will need extensive repairs. Even if repairs are required, they won't be significant unless the aircraft is involved in an accident.
Passenger Seating Capacity
The number of passengers on board determines the weight of an airplane during a flight. Weight is also an important consideration in welding methods and specialists' requirements. When the weight of an aircraft increases, the components deteriorate faster than when the capacity is reduced. This is another aspect that influences welding procedures and processes.
Engine Design
How fast an airplane will fly depends on the sort of engine it has. The pressure on its parts like its wings, propellers, and engine mounts increases or decreases depending on the speed. Aviation welding technicians must also consider the speed element for the repair process to be properly completed.
An Aircraft's Torque
There are several aircraft with various torques. The welding procedures and specifications for an engine mount and other engine components heavily depend on torque. Due to the engine's torque, as it is shutting off, the aircraft jerks when it lifts off.
It affects the strength of the welding joints and maintenance operations during flight as well.
Types Of Welding Used In Aircraft
Here are a few of the most prominent types of welding used in the aerospace industry.
- Gas Welding
- Electric Arc Welding
- Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)
- Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)
- Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW)
- Electric Resistance Welding
- Plasma Arc Welding (PAW)
- Plasma Arc Cutting
About Us
If you need engine mounts and aircraft exhausts, turn to Acorn Welding, a reliable "One Stop Shop." We are the largest radial and vintage aircraft exhaust repair company in the world, as well as the largest firm in Canada that repairs engine mounts and exhaust systems for airplanes.
For professional aircraft welding services, contact us today. We’ll make sure your aircraft has got what it needs to soar the skies.
