Welders use hand-welding or flame-cutting equipment to weld or join metal components or to fill holes, indentations, or seams of fabricated metal products. The process of welding uses either electricity or various gasses to create high temperatures that bond metals.
Welders may also be required to flame cut or cold cut metal based on blueprints and/or isometric drawings to construct new pipe or structural steel systems for process systems and unit infrastructure components. Flame cutting may also be required for equipment demo prior to new construction of new equipment.
The skill level varies between different types of welding depending on the metallurgy and process required to complete a reliable weld.
The welding technology program teaches both the theoretical and practical principles of the profession, develops proficiency in technical skills, and provides opportunities for the application of both theoretical and practical knowledge. Upon completion of the program, you will be able to:
- Safely and efficiently utilize cutting and welding equipment that complies with accepted industry standards
- Read/interpret mechanical drawings and apply communicated information to build fabricated assemblies that comply with industry standards
- Demonstrate acquired skills and a knowledge base that meets or exceeds established industry benchmarks
- Prepare various types of weld joints per industry standards, using appropriate welding and cutting processes and procedures
- Perform various types of welds on industry-standard joint types in all positions, using appropriate welding and cutting processes and procedures
- Evaluate quality control standards and practices applied in welding inspection in the welding industry
- Analyze technical documentation to make informed decisions in welding processes
- Apply mathematical and logical reasoning to the welding and fabrication processes
- Analyze the physical, mechanical, and chemical properties of materials to perform welding and fabrication procedures