As in other facets of welding equipment technology, arc welding power sources are evolving as fabricators' needs change. Electronics is playing a large role in power source modernization as power source equipmentmakers begin to employ digital interfacing, Internet access, software control, and other innovations to these machines.

Dressing properly for welding involves many facets of safety, including proper use of personal protective equipment and welding tools as well as protective apparel. Welders should be aware of the hazards they will face on their job and know to dress for them so they can protect themselves from all possible potential welding dangers, from sparks and spatter to fumes and electrocution.

Bend tests for aluminum are different than for steel. For instance, lack of fusion discontinuities in aluminum usually don't show up as well in radiographs. A bend test is a more discriminating way to test your aluminum weld.

Welder Bill Capozzoli owns and operates a small specialty fabrication company. He works with architect Phillip Conte to fabricate a memorial made of stainless steel to honor fallen Delaware County, Pa. law enforcement officers.

Leaders who oversee weld designs, materials, methods, personnel training, and manufacturing teams should promote welding performance by addressing quality and testing issues in contracts for any work. Total quality systems and weld acceptance criteria must be specific--specified for each contract--and adherence must be enforced without wavering. Acceptance criteria for welding should be agreed to in a face-to-face meeting before fabrication begins. Before a project begins, all parties should agree on the retention time for inspection and test records—including X-rays, personnel qualifications and other project data--and the contract should state the location and description of the records storage facility.