Are you familiar with the benefits of welding? Professional welding is one of the most vital fields to the American and worldwide economy. In fact, according to RealityWorks, over 50% of U.S. products require welding. Here are some surprising facts about the field you may not know about.

It's Old

Welding is one of the oldest industries in the world. In its most primitive form, it goes back 10,000 years, per the Universal Technical Institute. During these prehistoric times, early humans used hot rocks to make tools and weapons. The hot rocks acted as a source to melt the elements together to make knives and swords.

It Took Place in Space

Some people may think all the spaceship work is done on the ground. However, space welding is a necessity, and the first project was completed in 1969. As Astronautix states, during the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project in 1969, Alexei A. Leonov used special equipment to build a helical antenna from metal.

It Doesn't Always Need Heat

When you think of welding, you think of heat being used to stick two pieces of metal together. While that is the most common way to weld items, the process can also involve air. Some welders use a cold process like air pressure for piecing together aluminum items. Since aluminum is a thin and fragile type of metal, a cold process can be more effective.

It Helped Electricity

Imagine a world without a vast supply of electrical sources. Electricity is so accessible for homes and businesses alike due to the advancements in welding. Before welding was discovered, people didn't know how to create electricity using magnetism and an electric current. Then, scientists and industrial professionals figured out how to use it for conducting electricity. You can thank advancements in welding for helping make the world more connected.

As you can, see there are many surprising facts when it comes to the welding industry. Welding can involve a cold process, it was fundamental in the development of electricity, and people can even use it in space. Welding has made the world more convenient and accessible and continues to create many jobs. To learn more about our services in the field of welding, contact our team at Industrial Fabricators of Virginia Inc today for a consultation.