A relatively new joining process, friction stir welding (FSW) produces no fumes; uses no filler material; and can join aluminum alloys, copper, magnesium, zinc, steels, and titanium. FSW sometimes produces a weld that is stronger than the base material.

Gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW or TIG), a popular process for high-quality manual welding, has its limitations and requires highly skilled operators. A process used in Europe addresses those limitations, enhances productivity and weld quality, and reduces the skill level required to GTAW.

Working on a project at the world's largest nuclear waste treatment plant, Bechtel National found that it could simplify the operation, enhance weld quality, and promote safety by using inverter technology.

All welders are newbies at some time in their careers. Following Marty Rice's advice for newbies can help you with more than your welding career. Learn from the man who's been there, done that, and has the scars to prove it.

Did you hear the one about the welder who was tired of bending over to weld and made the fatal mistake of using a 55-gallon drum as a welding table? In this article, welding instructor Marty Rice discusses this mistake and describes some common technical mistakes new welders make, some more serious than others. All can be avoided.