4 Eco-Friendly Welding Practices

Guest post by Peter Long

As a species, we are becoming ever more aware of the importance of preservation when it comes to the environment. While there are some obvious ways in which we can do our part, like recycling, the truth of the matter is that there is always a little more that can be done.

Being eco-friendly means more than just separating your trash. If you are a welder there are ways you can practice your business that are just as effective as ever while still supporting the well-being of the environment.

However, before we go any further, just remember that best practice when it comes to welding means always taking appropriate safety precautions. Remember to always use safety gloves and a welding helmet. Since not all equipment is made the same you may want to do research on how to find the best welding helmet.

Now that we have addressed the safety concerns, let’s take a look at some eco-friendly ways to conduct your welding and choose the right welder. 

Friction Welding

The process of friction welding just what the name suggests. Heat is generated by the friction between the workpiece and a rotating tool. As the friction builds, the materials heat up to the point that they are able to join. Why is this practice eco-friendly? It removes the need for flux and allows you to operate the motor using only the exact amount of energy required. The ultimate result is cleaner air and a reduced carbon footprint.

Vacuum Soldering

Vacuum soldering is considered the superior method, which is a great reason to start using it in your welding. Traditional soldering is a chemical heavy process that releases a lot of harmful substances into the air.

Vacuum soldering is just as efficient as its traditional alternative but rather than relying on flux, it uses hydrogen, a substance that is capable of yielding the same efficient results without the toxic consequences.

Diffusive Welding

Diffusive welding is a method that combines pressure and heat to produce a high-quality joint. The process removes the need for flux making it an environmentally sustainable option for welding work.

It is also a method that boasts attractive pros. Diffusive Welding yields impressive results, it is a relatively simple approach, and depending on the scale of your operation it can even be fairly inexpensive.

With that said, when it comes to large-scale production, diffusive welding isn’t always feasible. It tends to be a lengthier process which can make it a costly for high volume welding.

Recycle

The final eco-friendly welding practice that we will be elaborating on is also perhaps the oldest and most recited piece of advice in the world of environmental preservation. Recycle! When you have finished a job with unusable scraps left over, don’t just throw them out, give them the opportunity to be repurposed and appreciated. The best place to take your scraps is an industrial mill, where you can be certain they are being properly handled.

To put it simply, engaging in environmentally friendly practices is a step you can take to stay on the right side of history. We’ve been reminded over and over again the importance of taking care of the environment, and now it is time to act on that information.

There is no doubt that awareness is increasing, and with it so too is the effort. Now it’s your opportunity to become a part of the ongoing efforts to make this planet a healthier, more sustainable place. Your family and your future will thank you.