Making things is very satisfying, but at some point there are always elements that need to be fused together in some way. Bonding metals can be done in various ways, which must be weighed up, considering elements such as cost, performance and ease of execution. Each method will have its own advantages and less appealing traits.
Welding
This technique is well known for bonding metals together. Welding can yield quite a streamlined appearance; however, it is a specialist trade that requires a great deal of training for those who perform it, and it is carried out at extremely high temperatures, and the cost of labour can be high. In addition, the metal can be damaged – possibly discoloured or warped – by being heated and cooled for this process.
Welding can, of course, be dangerous as it involves heating metals to the point where they can be red hot and generate sparks. To learn more about why welding produces sparks, see this report from The Guardian.
Metal bonding adhesive
This technique can be performed with much less cost, as little training is required in general to correctly apply adhesive for bonding metals. Using adhesives can eliminate a number of steps in the bonding process, and whilst good ventilation will be needed, the kind of specialist equipment needed for welding is not necessary.
With adhesive, metal can also be joined together without needing rivets or screws, which means that the surface will be smooth. In some circumstances, the adhesive used can also create a useful seal. Depending on the adhesive used, this seal can even deliver flexibility without lessening the strength of the bond between the metals. This kind of bond is especially effective when the results must be exposed to changes in weather, such as those experienced by aircraft and even cars. If you want to learn more about metal bonding adhesive and how it can be used effectively, it would be a good idea to consult a website such as http://www.ct1ltd.com/product-applications/metal-to-metal-adhesive where you can discover more about this.
Bonding metals to other metals is an essential part of getting things made. So finding out the most efficient and cost effective method of doing this is very important. Adhesives that bond metals together can be extremely versatile without the high costs of methods such as welding.