Welding is the backbone of modern industrial fabrication. From shipbuilding and automotive to energy and construction, different welding methods are used based on precision, material, and production needs.
In this article, we break down the most common types of welding and where they’re best applied.
1. MIG Welding (Metal Inert Gas)
Also known as GMAW, MIG welding uses a continuously fed wire electrode and inert gas (typically argon) to shield the weld.
Why Choose MIG:
- High-speed and clean welds
- Minimal spatter and post-processing
- Easier to learn and automate
Ideal For:
- Automotive chassis and bodywork
- Industrial equipment manufacturing
- General fabrication
2. TIG Welding (Tungsten Inert Gas)
TIG welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and requires two-handed operation. It delivers incredibly clean, strong welds.
Why Choose TIG:
- Extremely precise and clean welds
- Zero slag or spatter
- Best for aluminum, stainless steel, and non-ferrous alloys
Ideal For:
- Aerospace components
- Pipe welding
- Medical or food-grade equipment
3. Stick Welding (SMAW)
Stick welding uses a flux-coated consumable electrode and works well outdoors or in dirty environments.
Why Choose Stick:
- Doesn't require external shielding gas
- Works in windy, dusty conditions
- Inexpensive and rugged
Ideal For:
- Structural welding on-site
- Heavy equipment repair
- Pipeline and shipyard work
4. Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)
Similar to MIG, FCAW uses a flux-filled wire that can be used with or without shielding gas.
Why Choose FCAW:
- High deposition rate
- Great for thick metal sections
- Suitable for fieldwork
Ideal For:
- Bridge and structural fabrication
- Heavy industrial frames
- Shipbuilding
5. Plasma Arc Welding (PAW)
PAW is a high-precision process using a constricted plasma arc for detailed and controlled welding.
Why Choose PAW:
- Narrow, focused welds
- Suited for automation
- High penetration with minimal heat-affected zones
Ideal For:
- Aerospace components
- Robotics
- Precision electronics
Quick Selection Guide
Instead of a table, here’s a quick guide to choosing the right process:
- ✅ MIG – For speed and simplicity in general fabrication
- ✅ TIG – For precision and clean finish, especially on thin metals
- ✅ Stick – For rugged field work and outdoor use
- ✅ FCAW – For thick metals in construction or shipyards
- ✅ PAW – For robotic or aerospace-grade welds
Hire Certified Welders with the Right Expertise
At Navis International, we provide pre-qualified welders with expertise across all major welding methods — MIG, TIG, Stick, FCAW, and Plasma.
All personnel are certified under European standards and are available for deployment across marine, construction, and manufacturing sectors.
Contact us now to request vetted welding professionals tailored to your project's scope.