Bulldog Metal Works Frequently Asked Questions

One of the main benefits is that the metal used in the fabrication process is extremely flexible. Technicians ensure the metal is shaped to your unique space requirements and welding ensures permanent stabilization. Professionals perform cutting with the latest tech like plasma laser-cutting machines under the guidance of skilled fabricators. For a quality metal fabrication company in Clearwater, FL, be sure to call us today!

The process is not cost-prohibitive considering that professionals adhere to the strictest standards in design, construction, and installation. Basically, you'll get your money's worth. To find out more about metal fabrication or our fabrication company in Clearwater, FL, contact Bulldog Metal Works and speak with one of our professional metal fabricators.

Structural steel products are manufactured using a specific profile or shape and chemical composition. The composition of the steel is mainly iron and carbon. Depending on the application, other elements can be combined to increase strength and durability. Professionals will use a particular steel profile or plate depending on the span, load-bearing requirements, and shape of the structure involved. For quality stainless steel fabrication in Clearwater, FL, be sure to call us today!

Shielded metal arc welding, commonly called stick welding, is a welding process that uses an electrode (welding rod) to carry the electric current and provide the majority of the weld metal. The electrode consists of a core wire coated in flux. 

An electric arc is created across the gap when the energized circuit and the electrode tip touch the workpiece and are withdrawn, yet still within close contact. This generates temperatures of approximately 6500F. The heat melts both the base metal and the electrode, creating the weld. 

During this process, the molten metal is protected from oxides and nitrides in the atmosphere by a gaseous shield created by the vaporizing of the flux coating. The electrode produces a slag covering on the finished weld. Some typical uses include steel erection, heavy equipment repair, construction, and pipeline welding.

Should you need services for stick welding, be sure to contact our fabrication company in Clearwater, FL. 

Gas tungsten arc welding, commonly called TIG or Heliarc welding, is a welding process that uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to heat the base metal and to create a molten weld puddle. An autogenous (no filler metal) weld can be created by melting two pieces of metal together. An external filler rod can be added into the molten puddle to create the weld bead and increase mechanical properties. 

Like the GMAW process, the molten weld puddle needs to be shielded by an external gas supply. The most commonly used shielding gas is argon, but argon/helium mixtures can be used on heavy aluminum. GTAW can be used to weld most alloys. Some typical uses include aerospace welding, piping systems, and working on vehicles, motorcycles, or bikes.

When you need TIG welding services, be sure to call our fabrication company in Clearwater, FL!

Gas metal arc welding, commonly called MIG welding, is a process that uses a continuously fed, solid wire electrode through a welding gun. The operator pulls a trigger on the welding gun, which feeds the consumable electrode through. An electric arc forms between the electrode and the base material, which heats the base material, causing it to melt and join.

The molten weld metal is protected from oxides and nitrides in the atmosphere by an externally supplied shielding gas. The most commonly used gas is carbon dioxide or a mixture of argon and carbon dioxide. The GMAW process can be used to weld a wide range of alloys including carbon steel, stainless steel, magnesium, nickel, copper, silicon bronze, and aluminum. Some typical uses include small to large manufacturing, auto body work, and fabrication.

When you need a quality industrial welder in Clearwater, FL, be sure to call us!

Flux-cored arc welding is a welding process similar to GMAW in that it uses a continuously fed electrode. However, arc welding uses a tubular wire filled with flux instead of a solid wire. 

There are two types of flux-cored wire: self-shielded and dual-shielded wire. Self-shielded wire is used without the aid of an external gas shield and uses the flux to shield the molten weld puddle. A dual-shielded wire uses the flux and an external shielding gas to protect the molten weld puddle. 

Typical shielding gases are carbon dioxide and argon/carbon dioxide mixes. Self-shielded wires are optimal for outdoor use, even in windy situations. Both wires produce a slag covering on the finished weld. Some typical uses include thick materials, steel erection, and heavy equipment construction or repair.

For a quality industrial welder in Clearwater, FL, be sure to call us today!

Plasma cutting is a process that cuts through electrically conductive materials by means of an accelerated jet of hot plasma. Typical materials cut with a plasma torch include steel, aluminum, brass, and copper, although other conductive metals may be cut as well. 

Plasma cutting is often used in fabrication shops, automotive repair and restoration, industrial construction, salvage, and scrapping operations. Due to the high speed and precision cuts combined with a low cost, plasma cutting enjoys widespread use from large-scale industrial CNC applications. 

For a reliable industrial welder in Clearwater, FL, be sure to contact us today!

At Bulldog Metal Works, we provide welding services for both common and more exotic metals. Our welders have 15 years of experience working with the following materials: aluminum, chrome, moly, high carbon, low carbon, and stainless steel. If your project requires a different material that is not listed above, please give us a call and we will work with you towards a welding solution. As the fabrication company Clearwater, FL relies on, be sure to call us when you need welding services.