Underwater Welding Information: Career and Jobs

Welding is a process when two metal pieces are joined together by fusing them at high temperatures. It has a great deal of application in various sectors of the economy. But underwater welding jobs present a whole new vista of careers for young people, which is a good option for an exciting and high paying career. In order to exhibit your welding skills underwater, there are a lot of factors to be considered before venturing out to the location.

Nature of Underwater Welding Jobs

The first and the foremost requirement for underwater welding jobs is to become a certified diver. The task involves repair works of damaged ship or vessel components, pipelines carrying inflammable substances like oil or gas, construction and maintenance of bridge-supports and so on. Thus, it involves working under high pressure and perilous conditions for a long duration. Therefore, along with being an expert welder, one should be a good diver and adept to many different working conditions. Usually, welding underwater involves use of a six basic methods which are, dry welding in habitat, in atmosphere, dry chamber welding, friction stud welding, dry spot welding and wet welding. Out of these, wet welding involves direct contact between welding apparatus and water, unlike other methods, where it is performed after isolating the job area from making contact with water.

Since, most of the underwater welding jobs involve use of electrical appliances underwater, it becomes even more challenging. Certainly, it is not meant for the faint hearted. Nevertheless, one who successfully undergoes the training courses for the same and loves taking up challenges, will surely benefit as it is a high paying job in most countries. Underwater welding jobs also involve traveling to many distant lands and putting up in locations which might not be very comfortable for a stay. Hence, before deciding upon an underwater welding career, one must have intense passion for the same and exhibit willingness to adapt to different living conditions.

A very important concern is the usage of electricity. Since, underwater welding requires a Direct Current (DC) supply rather than Alternating Current (AC), a diver cum welder should be properly insulated against any shocks. The equipment used in welding should be used only after ensuring proper and spacious working conditions. The dangers are significantly less, when a diver is welding in a pond, lake or a reservoir. But in the deep seas there is very poor visibility as one goes deeper in the water. Sometimes, in order to prevent drifting away because of strong ocean currents, a diver has to secure himself to snaffling ropes. Certain marine life, like jelly fish, stinging worms or sting grays also pose a danger for underwater welders.

There are a stringent set of rules and guidelines laid down by many competent bodies in the US for underwater welding career. The American Welding Society, Association of Diving Contractors, the US Navy in tandem with many commercial diving schools help guide the aspirants and govern the technicalities of this job. There are many commercial training institutes and also US Navy courses for getting started with an underwater welding career. College of Oceaneering, Wilmington, California, is one such institute that offers highly professional and advanced training in underwater welding applications.

Thus, if you are willing to make a determined effort, and love water related professions, underwater welding jobs might just be the adventure and the right profession you are looking for!