2018's Top 10 stories from The Fabricator

This past year has indeed been an interesting one for the manufacturing industry. That's especially true for the metal fabrication sector, which has reaped the benefits of a booming economy while also being hit with a trade war via President Donald Trump's imposing tariffs on imported steel and aluminum.

The 2018 narrative was also impacted by evolving additive manufacturing through more accessible 3D printing, advancements in automation, and, of course, the ever-growing concern with the skills gap.

From women who weld to the Trump steel/aluminum tariffs to precise press brake bending and everything in between, here are the top 10 most read stories/blogs on thefabricator.com in 2018 deemed by you, our faithful readers.

10. Women, welding, and a changing cultural landscape

Welding is in need of a change in terms of how it embraces, views, and relates with female welders. Josh Welton of Brown Dog Welding lends his views on the subject and provides a sounding board for several women welders to share their experiences navigating the male-dominated trade.

9. What is high-precision plasma cutting, exactly?

Plasma cutting technology has evolved into a high-precision and productive tool for the fabricator’s shop floor. Dirk Ott of Victor Technologies, which recently merged with ESAB, takes a closer look a what started as a simple process to cut metal is now a fast, productive tool for job shops.

8. Union corruption and what should be done about it—Part II

Union corruption is nothing new, but the extent of it can be mind-boggling. In this two-part series, welder and blogger Josh Welton shares his firsthand observations of corruption, thoughts on current investigations, and what can be done to eliminate the wrongdoing and preserve these entities. Read Part I here.

7. The rise in steel prices continues

When murmurs of possible tariffs on imports steel and aluminum from the Trump administration were starting to pop up in February, steel prices began to see a spike. Since then, nearly a year later, the trade war dilemma has only increased. Tim Triplett, senior editor for “Steel Market Update” gives his take.

6. Should your operation convert from spot welding to laser keyhole welding?

If you are spot welding parts regularly and having quality and productivity issues, you might want to convert to laser keyhole welding. Here are some considerations from Erik Miller and Shuang Liu of Miller Electric Mfg. Co. to help you determine if this technology is right for your application.

5. A guide for finding the right laser cutting machine

How would you go about purchasing a laser cutting machine? That's not an everyday task, and as a result, some shops aren't sure where to start. This guide can help fabricators ask the right questions when making this important purchase.

4. Tips for out-of-position welding

Welding out of position is at times a necessity, and some processes and consumables are better suited to fit your needs than others. Blaine Guy, Applications Welding Engineerat Hobart Brothers Company, explains how to choose the right welding process and consumables and which common mistakes to avoid.

3. K-factors, Y-factors, and press brake bending precision

Want to calculate your bends with precision? Then run your bend calculations using a K-factor that takes your application’s variables into account. Even better, you can turn to something that’s even more precise—the Y-factor. Press brake master Steve Benson shows you how.

2. How to TIG weld aluminum

Whether the goal is obtaining greater penetration or achieving the stacked-dimes look for improved aesthetics, following these tips from Andrew Pfaller can help welders of all skill levels achieve success when welding aluminum with the GTAW process.

1. Understanding aluminum welding compared to steel welding

The techniques and best practices for welding aluminum are very different than those for welding steel. Welding engineer Matt Underwood offers some common challenges with aluminum welding and how to address them.