Welding is also used to join beams when constructing buildings, bridges, and other structures, and to join pipes in pipelines, power plants, and refineries. Welders and welding machine operators use many types of welding equipment in a variety of positions, such as flat, vertical, horizontal, and overhead. They may perform manual welding, in which the work is entirely controlled by the welder, or semi-automatic welding, in which the welder uses machinery, such as a wire feeder, to help perform welding tasks. Skilled welders generally plan work from drawings or specifications or by using their knowledge of welding and metals to analyze damaged metal parts. These workers then select and set up welding equipment and examine welds, to insure they meet standards or specifications.
Some welders have more limited duties, however.
They perform routine jobs that have already been planned and laid out and do not require extensive knowledge of welding techniques. Automated welding is used in an increasing number of production processes. In these instances, a machine or robot performs the welding tasks, while monitored by a welding machine operator. Welding machine operators set up and operate welding machines, as specified by layouts, work orders, or blueprints. Operators must load parts correctly and constantly monitor the machine to ensure that it produces the desired weld.