Welding is a critical part of the manufacturing industry. So critical, in fact, that up to 70% of all manufactured products in the US are made by professional welders.

Given the importance of the job, welding tools and supplies are in high demand. In 2023, we’re seeing some notable trends and developments that are making the welding industry safer and more competitive. 

With the rise and evolution of several new technologies in the last few years, the welding process is anticipated to experience a massive shift in three particular aspects:

• Equipment and Techniques
• Training Methods
• Safety and Protection

So, whether you’re a welder, a contractor, or have your own manufacturing company, you can expect to see some significant changes in the way welding operations are carried out.

New Equipment and Techniques 

Laser Welding 

One of the newest advancements in welding involves the use of laser technology to instantly melt metal and fuse two pieces together. The laser beam is extremely accurate and enables fine welding even when dealing with extremely intricate parts. 

Laser welding is said to be as much as 10 times faster than typical MIG welding. At the same time, it doesn’t require high heat or multiple passes. This makes it efficient for high-precision manufacturing processes such as those demanded by the medical and automotive industries. 

Robotic Welding 

Robotics could soon automate the entire welding process by following instructions based on a program. This program can then be tweaked by a professional welder to suit the specific project. 

Industries are finding that robots are a highly cost-effective solution, especially in mass production since they are capable of working efficiently without human error. 

Robotic welding is best suited for short welds with repeatable and predictable tasks so that they don’t have to be reprogrammed constantly. 

Training Methods: AV and VR

Welding is a complicated profession, involving a number of health and safety risks while requiring high levels of skill and expertise. This is where augmented and virtual reality come in. By creating simulations of real work environments, professionals can effectively train new welders without the risk of accidents. 

Using AR simulations is also a cost-effective way to train new welders.

Health and Safety: Newer PPE 

Welders are often exposed to several toxic carcinogenic gasses. Plus, their tasks come with the risks of getting burnt or electrocuted. In 2023, there has been a much-needed upgrade in the protective gear for welders. 

Companies have been investing in respirators that can help protect workers from harmful fumes while introducing PPE equipment that is more resistant to heat, toxic fumes, and ultra-fine particles. 

Conclusion 

With so many changes, the welding industry is looking at a complete overhaul in the next few decades. Hence, finding companies with the right and updated KnowHow will continue to be a challenge. 

nexAir, one of the largest gas companies in the Southeast has all the solutions that can help manufacturing industries and welding professionals Forge Forward without issues.

Whether it’s questions about welding equipment rentals, getting the most out of your tools, concerns over health and safety, or an urgent need for repairs, our experts will make sure that downtime will never be an issue.