> With all the discussion about types of welders (MIG vs. TIG vs. OA), there
> hasn't been any discussion about the strength of the weld produced. I have
> heard OA--under some circumstances, at least--provides a stronger weld due
> to more even heating/fusing of the surrounding metal. Obviously,
> TIG/MIG is plenty
> strong since it's used in critical apps (airplanes, bridges, etc.)
> but is there any
> inherent differences in the "quality" or strength of welds produced by the
> different methods?
I don't believe there is any inherent difference ... you can make strong welds
with any method. However, I've heard it said that it's easy to make pretty
looking, but poor penetration (weak) welds with MIG; while it's less apt with
other methods. You can make bad welds with any method, but with TIG & OA it's
more obvious (once you know what to look for).
OA is not suitable for many exotic metals, MIG & TIG were originally developed
to weld metals that were difficult or impossible with OA &/or stick.
Randall
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