How the process fits the part
TIG uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode; MIG/MAG uses a continuously fed consumable wire with shielding gas. Each route offers different production and access considerations. The welding partner should select an appropriate procedure for the actual assembly. Appearance alone does not demonstrate the strength or suitability of a joint.
Design decisions before manufacture
Review joint access, preparation and the order in which parts will be joined. Locate critical mounting surfaces with distortion in mind. A frame may require machining after welding to establish its final interfaces. In product-contact areas, discuss joint geometry and cleanability with the customer’s responsible process team.
Inspect the finished result
Agree inspection responsibilities and records for the joint’s function. Visual review, dimensional checks and any specialist examination should be identified in the scope. Check the completed assembly as well as individual seams. If welding changes the location of a rail or bearing interface, the final fit must be assessed after fabrication.
What to send for a quotation
Provide grades, thicknesses, assembly views, joint locations and any critical dimensional or service conditions. Identify finish, leak-related requirements and required documentation without assuming a universal procedure. QDM can develop the assembly and coordinate fabrication partners; specialist welding qualification and process reviews are agreed separately.
What to define for the project.
| Decision | What to define | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Joint | Materials, geometry and service | Guides procedure selection |
| Access | Torch and assembly sequence | Prevents inaccessible seams |
| Distortion | Critical mounting interfaces | May require post-weld machining |
| Surface | Finish and cleaning requirement | Influences joint detailing |
| Records | Agreed inspection responsibility | Matches the joint function |
These notes support an initial engineering discussion. Material grades, manufacturing routes, dimensions and acceptance criteria are selected for the actual application and confirmed in the project specification.
Discuss the engineering scope
Choose the service that matches the next stage of your part, device or machine project.