04 Mar Must-Have Tools and Equipment for Welding Projects 

Welding is an intricate field, where precision and high-quality metals come together to create the necessary products. In order to weld and weld in a safe environment, there are many kinds of tools and equipment that these fabricators need to have with them at all times. 

Welding, as admirable as it is, is a high-risk field of work, which is why tools and protective wear are absolutely necessary when on the job. In most cases, those who are aspiring for a career in welding will undergo training and learn about the equipment they will need. But to give a head start, we discuss the common pieces of protective equipment and tools used in the field of welding. 

Safety Glasses

In many fields of work, safety glasses are needed. In welding, they are a must. Because sparks and scraps of metal and debris are flying around, glasses are there to cover the eyes of those working with metal. The glasses must be equipped with non-tinted clear lenses in order for workers to have a clear view of their worksite, especially because they work in rather dark settings. 

Welding Helmet

In addition to safety glasses, welders often use helmets made specifically for welding. Most of these helmets are auto-darkening, but this helps with the exposure of light that comes from flying and off-setting sparks. Just like safety glasses, these helmets are made to protect the blinding light of fluorescent sparks and also keeps the face from coming into contact with debris. 

Gloves

There are specific gloves made for different kinds of welding, but for the most part, every welder needs to be wearing gloves while they are on the job. These gloves are designed for ease and efficiency when working with metals. Gauntlet gloves provide complete movement for the wrist and have firm finger pockets that way the material is not easily burned or manipulated. 

Soapstone

Moving on from safety equipment, there are many tools that are used in welding settings on a daily basis. Soapstone is one of the smallest but helpful tools a welder can have on them. These markers can be used when drafting where and how metal is going to be welded. They can mark the metal and welders can proceed with cutting pieces. 

Wire Brush 

Wire brushes also come in handy. Because of the pressure and intensity of metals and surfaces, there is usually some kind of slag and welding spatter from welds. This can get in the way of future projects, but with a wire brush, a welder can go over the surfaces and have a clean space to work with. 

Angle Grinder 

Some metals or pieces might come in bulky sizes, therefore it can be difficult to weld edges. This is where an angle grinder can help. Made with circular blades, these tools add the smooth finishes that welders need when working with large scraps of metal. Usually, angle grinders come in different speeds for welders to choose from. 

Chipping Hammer

As we mentioned, some metal or steel parts come in sizes that are too big for welders to start from scratch. In order to make it easier for welders, they can grab a chipping hammer and start inching away at the material. One could say that chipping hammers give welders the ability to sculpt metals to their liking. 

Charged Electrode

An electrode is the tips of welds that are responsible for transporting the current to the material that is being welded. This is what generates the high temperatures and the heat necessary to create a liquid form of metal. There are different types of electrode tips and other materials depending on the metal and heat. The tips can be strengthened if the weld is too weak on its own. 

Welding Pliers

Welding pliers are another essential component that can be found in a welder’s day-to-day work kit. Pliers are typically used for smaller tasks, but they are rather useful nonetheless. They can be used to cut off burned wire before starting a new bead, they can remove the tip from welding guns, and they can clean spatters and metal buildup from the nozzle of welding guns. This allows welders to work with their equipment without having to touch anything with their bare hands. 

Choose the Welding Services at Kalisch Steel 

Kalish Steel is one of the major fabricators in the southwest. Our supply goes beyond El Paso because we are willing to help businesses everywhere. Contact us today to learn more about what our welding services entail.