Discover the journey and challenges of becoming a welder, including the importance of constantly improving and identifying well-done welds through inspections and x-ray testing. Explore the frustrations of the job, the shortage of welders, and the potential career path for welders in quality control. Learn about welding safety concerns, common injuries, and the fear of going to the doctor
30:15
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Quick takeaways
Welding creates permanent bonds between metal pieces, making it essential in various industries like automotive and aerospace.
Being a skilled welder requires attention to detail, a commitment to quality, and constant self-improvement to strive for excellence.
Deep dives
Discovering Passion: From Farming to Welding
Matt Reed, also known as Lucky, grew up on a tobacco farm, where he did hard work from a very young age. Despite hating the job, Lucky knew that he wanted to do something he loved for a living. In high school, he discovered his passion for welding and dedicated himself to honing his skills. Lucky became a welder, specializing in TIG and stick welding on carbon and stainless pipe. He emphasizes the importance of never settling for mediocrity, constantly striving to improve and find flaws in his work. Welding, for Lucky, is a fulfilling and exciting profession.
The Importance of Welding in Connecting Metal Pieces
Welding is necessary when connecting pieces of metal that cannot be bolted or adhered together. Welding engineers use mathematical equations to determine the required strength per square inch for a weld. While other methods like bolts or adhesives may deteriorate over time due to rust or environmental factors, welding creates a permanent bond. Welding is an essential process in various industries, such as automotive and aerospace. Interestingly, astronauts perform a different type of welding called cold welding in space, where alloys become permanently fused due to the absence of oxygen.
The Craftsmanship and Perfectionism of Welding
Being a skilled welder requires attention to detail and a commitment to quality. Lucky Reed believes in constantly pushing himself to improve, never settling for subpar welds. He has embraced the mindset of finding flaws in his work and striving for consistency. While perfection is unattainable, the pursuit of excellence is what drives Lucky in his welding career. The satisfaction of creating well-crafted welds and earning the respect of his peers and superiors is what makes welding fulfilling for him.
Safety and Challenges in Welding
Welding poses safety concerns due to the high temperatures involved, making burns a common risk. TIG welding, which doesn't produce sparks or slag, presents a risk of eye damage from the intense light. Safety precautions like wearing a welding hood and protective gear are crucial. Welders must be aware of safety protocols and follow industry codes. Inspections and tests, including x-rays, ensure the quality and integrity of welded joints. While welding can be challenging and sometimes monotonous, Lucky emphasizes the importance of perseverance and facing boredom and frustrations with dedication and a positive attitude.
Pushing perfectionism to its limits, suffering third degree burns from slag, and having your welds “shot” by X-rays with Matt "Lucky" Reed, a welder in Florida. What happens to welders' eyes if they don't wear protective hoods? And what's a time-tested way of trolling a fellow welder?
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