Posted on March-03-2017
Working with metal and providing excellent welding services requires dexterity, practice, and skill. To be trusted and taken seriously in your profession, however, requires the adequate welding certification, which Arc Welding Services Ltd have explored below:
Novices to the industry may be surprised to learn that there are actually quite a few different welding processes and procedures. Some of the most common ones are as follows:
Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)
Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW, or more commonly known as MIG)
Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW)
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW, or more commonly known as TIG)
The specific kind of welding services you are looking to provide will determine which welding certification or ‘code’ you need to gain. Each code comprises of a number followed by a letter which is indicative of your capability level.
Certification tests consider five different elements; type of material; thickness of the material; position (upright, horizontal, etc); process, and type of joint. It is always advisable to attempt the highest code level possible as you will then be coded for the preceding levels, i.e. if you attempt a 4G and are successful then you will also be coded for 3G which is less difficult.
When it comes to welding certification, there are lots of training courses across the UK which you can choose from, and which provide different joint configurations and processes. Some centres may conduct assessments beforehand to establish your level of skill – particularly if you are re-training – and then recommend the best course accordingly.
You should always do your research thoroughly and look for a reputable company that can offer you flexibility in your learning; make sure they have proven results and can demonstrate that they will provide all of the knowledge and training required to progress your career and enable you to safely carry out your work.
The expert team at Arc Welding Solutions Ltd are fully qualified to assist our Birmingham customers with a range of welding services and requirements. To find out more just give us a call us on 0121 327 2249 or contact us through our online form.
