When reviewing a Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) or a welder qualification record, the term “backing” frequently appears. In some cases, backing is required, while in others, it is optional. Backing can take various forms, including metal, non-fusing metal, nonmetallic materials, or even weld metal. But what exactly is “backing,” and why is it important in welding?
The construction industry is facing unprecedented challenges with ongoing and evolving tariffs on essential materials like steel, aluminum, and copper — and the impacts are rippling through the supply chain. Our expert panel talks through the real-world implications of these tariffs. From understanding the current tariff landscape to anticipating future increases and how suppliers and manufacturers are responding, this webinar will equip you with the knowledge to manage rising costs and protect your business.
Additional Resources:
Tariffs – What’s Past Is Prologue [PDF Slide Deck]
Navigating Tariffs in the Construction Industry [PDF Slide Deck]
On February 6, 2025, Daniel Bunn, President & CEO of the Tax Foundation, provided an in-depth analysis of expected federal policy changes during the second Trump administration during an MCAA webinar. A recording of the session, which was moderated by Jim Gaffney and Chuck Daniel, is now available. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from a leading expert in the field.
The E6010 electrode is a wire encased in cellulose held together with salts and minerals. These electrodes penetrate better than low-hydrogen electrodes like E7018 when making root passes, making it easier to make a good root pass. However, E6010 introduces hydrogen into the weld creating a risk of cracking, and this article shows when its use should be limited.
Understanding the implications of the Inflation Reduction Act and its impact on pricing jobs for installing heat pumps or heat pump water heaters can be daunting. However, a new resource from ENERGY STAR aims to simplify this process, specifically tailored for selling and installing Air Source Heat Pumps, Heat Pump Water Heaters, and Electric Panel Upgrades. It’s crucial for both contractors and property owners to grasp these credits, as they can cover up to 30% of project costs.
Two prevalent misconceptions revolve around the effectiveness of heat pumps in colder climates and their serviceability. To address these misgivings and better equip professionals for customer discussions, MSCA contractors and ENERGY STAR have developed a concise reference guide. This resource not only tackles these challenges head-on but also aids in preparing individuals for productive conversations with clients who hold these perceptions.
Two prevalent misconceptions revolve around the effectiveness of heat pumps in colder climates and their serviceability. To address these misgivings and better equip professionals for customer discussions, MSCA contractors and ENERGY STAR have developed a concise reference guide. This resource not only tackles these challenges head-on but also aids in preparing individuals for productive conversations with clients who hold these perceptions.
Piping codes are standard industry practice, and failure to agree on the one that applies to your work can result in ugly disputes with customers. Customer specifications can have inspection requirements that can result in repairs to welds that you did not plan for. Welders can make welds that put your business at risk. This article highlights what you can do to avoid these risks.
While there is a lot of buzz about modern waveform controlled power sources and how they make it easier for a welder to make the root pass, the basics of MIG welding have not changed. This article describes the technical aspects of GMAW, explains how the metal gets from the wire to the workpiece (transfer modes), and highlights what contractors need to pay attention to when bringing the process into their shop or field fabrication site.
This video provides trainees with information on the most common hand and power tool injuries in the mechanical construction and service trades. It highlights the tools most likely to be involved in an injury incident, and teaches proper use of the tools to help prevent injuries.
