What is stud welding?

Stud welding is a process that attaches studs (threaded rods) to a metal surface. Widely used in steel construction and reinforced concrete.

Process:

• The stud is placed in a special gun with a ceramic ferrule (arc shield)
• An electric arc is created between the stud and the plate; the current and arc time are set from the stud and gun manufacturer's data sheet for the diameter used
• The ceramic ferrule contains the molten metal and protects the arc

Applications in Quebec:

• Shear connectors: Studs welded onto steel beams before concrete pouring. Create composite steel-concrete action
• Anchors: Steel plates attached to concrete (with pre-welded studs)
• Insulation: Studs for attaching insulation and cladding to metal roofs

Standards:

• Studs certified per CSA W59 (shear connectors)
• Common diameters: ½ in (12.7 mm), ¾ in (19 mm), ⅞ in (22 mm)
• Qualification test: the bend test required by the applicable standard (the stud must not crack)

Stud welders' pay follows the welder trade: the NOC 72106 profile published by the Government of Quebec gives the hourly wage for all of Quebec.