Why Food-Grade Welding is Widespread Throughout the Common Commercial Kitchen

From restaurants to hospitals to food trucks and beyond, every commercial kitchen utilizes a wide range of stainless-steel products. Because stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion, acid damage, and other concentrated substances that often show up in kitchens, it’s the most logical choice of material for many components in commercial settings. The production of these stainless-steel kitchen products is most efficiently completed with stud welding processes. At Northland Fastening Systems, food-grade welding capabilities are just a click away with our stud welding services, tool rentals, and available equipment and accessories.

 

The efficiency and practicality of stud welding stainless steel for food-grade welding products is the primary reason why the demand for such a wide range of these kitchen components is so prevalent. Many other materials will rust, allow mold growth, start to degrade, and otherwise pose unhealthy working conditions and food production sanitation.

 

With the rapid welding process and strong connection points stud welding gives manufacturers of food-grade products, it’s not uncommon to see a variety of kitchen components in a commercial setting including:

 

  1. Stove units made with stud welded stainless-steel sheeting that holds up to the flames, grease, and other stresses in a commercial kitchen.
  2. Stainless-steel cased ovens that hold up to constant heat throughout the day and long-term use of that daily capacity.
  3. Shelving units that must support up to 2,000 lbs. regularly while exposed to temperatures ranging from walk-in freezers to heat from adjacent stoves and ovens, in addition to grease and moisture exposure.
  4. Tables and counters that hold up against continual exposure to acidic foods and liquids, knives, abrasive cleaning fluids, pounding, heavy weights, grease, heat, and cold.
  5. Heavy-duty kitchen ventilation systems and stove hoods that filter out highly acidic smoke, heavy-duty grease, and moisture constantly throughout the working day while often withstanding high heat from stovetops.
  6. Sinks and plumbing systems that take on grease, food, hair, dirt, and more in the day-to-day business of a commercial kitchen.
  7. Coolers and refrigerators that are subjected to constant opening and closing, food spills, moisture collection, freezing water, and abrasive cleaning.
  8. Commercial dishwasher units that are continually exposed to water at high sanitary temperatures, grease, acidic foods, and harsh chemical soaps.

 

In addition to these common systems, there are many more components of a standard commercial kitchen made with stud welded stainless steel, including some more specialized products involved in food production (such as the beer and wine making processes) that are designed to hold up to severe daily conditions.

 

With the use of quality stainless steel and well-made stud welding studs like those offered at Northland Fastening Systems, you can create your own commercial kitchen components that hold up to harsh environments. Contact us at (651) 730-7770 to learn more about food-grade welding and the equipment and services we provide.

Using the Right Welding Studs for the Right Project

Stud welding is a highly effective process for forming strong connection points quickly and with a clean finish. However effective stud welding is, it’s not as effective as it could be if you’re using the wrong welding studs. There are several types of welding processes that require different studs, and understanding which studs are best for the weld gun, welding unit, and material you want to weld is key to successful production. Northland Fastening Systems provides a wide range of welding studs suitable for any project you need to complete.

 

From drawn arc stud welding to capacitor discharge stud welding, NFS offers welding services in addition to tools (available for rental and purchase), and of course, welding studs. No matter what format you need to fit your studs in, you can find what you’re looking for with NFS.

 

Common Welding Studs

 

Some of the most common welding studs that NFS offers that are suitable for a range of stud welding projects include:

 

  1. Flanged CD Studs: Made from stainless steel, aluminum, brass, or low carbon steel, flanged studs range in stud and flange diameter, thread, and length. Flanged studs can be annealed for durability and strength and plated in copper for heightened electrical conductivity.
  2. Non-Flanged CD Studs: Similar to flanged, non-flanged CD welding studs can be made from the same materials with the same annealing or plating processes. The difference lies in the size of the top of the stud. For a clean weld in applications where a flange would interfere with the materials being connected (often stud welding production with sheet metal), non-flanged studs are highly effective.
  3. Threaded Arc Studs: Both fully or partially threaded arc welding studs are made from mild steel or stainless steel and can be of varying thread size, length, and stud diameter. These studs can be used in applications where a peg stud has to protrude from the weld point (partial thread) or fully welded into a material (full thread).
  4. Anchor Arc Studs: Varying in stud length and diameter, anchor arc welding studs are made from low carbon steel or stainless steel. They are useful in forming peg studs of various lengths protruding from the weld point that offers a reliable, strong weight capacity.
  5. Bar Anchor Studs: Made from low carbon steel and available in a range of diameters and lengths, bar anchor studs are key in load-bearing production and provide a highly durable connection point.
  6. CD Welding Pins: Thin CD welding pins are made from mild steel and often have a copper plating to support conductivity. They create a nail-like point for lightweight support and connection useful in many building interior installation projects like, for example, installing insulation.

 

In addition to our range of welding studs, we offer quality goods and services in a pinch. Contact Northland Fastening Systems at (651) 730-7770 to learn more about our stud welding services and equipment.

Importance of Shear Connectors in Construction Welding

As engineering advances, new materials are introduced, new equipment is developed, and the world’s capabilities for building and structural construction are changing rapidly. New and improved methods for building taller, stronger, and better buildings are tested and implemented every year. One construction technology that continues to prove effective in both cost and performance is the use of shear connectors as reinforcement for several building components. Northland Fastening Systems provides stud construction welding services, equipment, and tools for many types of construction projects, including shear connectors in varying sizes and forms.

 

While some shear connectors are not installed with stud welding techniques, there are types of shear connectors that are highly-effective when joined to a connection point using a stud welder.

 

Stud Welded Shear Connectors

 

  • Shear Connectors: NFS provides a type of shear connector that’s the most commonly used across the world in building construction. Offered in varying sizes, these shear connectors are used in concrete-to-beam connections and reinforce that joining with a resistance to shear load stresses. The shear connector is welded to a steel beam and fixed through a concrete slab with additional steel plates supporting the flexibility and strength of the slab.
  • Headed Studs: The headed anchor weld studs we offer in several sizes are a perfect example of a variation of the common type of shear connector. These studs have a wide base that provides a larger weld point to steel beams or girders and can be used in most concrete-to-beam construction projects.

 

Construction Welding Applications of Shear Connectors

 

Shear connectors are a critical way of creating strong connection points that hold up to shear loading. They are used in many applications including, but not limited to:

 

  1. Connecting upright steel beams to a concrete foundation
  2. Connecting load bearing beams to a concrete flooring in multi-story buildings
  3. Connecting composite slabs to steel beams in overpasses and other small to large scale bridges
  4. Reinforcing roads and sidewalks and preventing excessive freezing damage
  5. Connecting steel decking to concrete or composite ship floors
  6. Connecting metal roofing to interior ceiling materials

 

There are hundreds of applications of shear connectors in building and structural construction. This is because they are a vital piece of engineering that provides a powerful connection point between two materials that are difficult to connect otherwise. If you’re embarking on a construction project that requires the use of shear connectors, Northland Fastening Systems has the equipment and accessories you need.

 

Contact us at (651) 730-7770 to learn more about construction welding and other types of stud welding, or request a quote from NFS today.

 

Building Bridges Safer and Stronger with Construction Stud Welding

Stud welding is a unique welding operation because it has such a broad range of applications varying in several ways including the size, strength, and function of the weld and stud and the materials used. However, stud welding is often considered the lightweight player in terms of welding processes. While it’s true that stud welding is highly effective in many small-scale applications, it’s equally effective in a wide spectrum of large-scale production.

 

Within each manufacturing industry, there are various applications of stud welding, big and small. When it comes to structure and building construction, stud welding has more uses than any other type of welding. With Northland Fastening Systems, you can find the services and tools you need for any construction stud welding project, no matter the scale.

 

Construction stud welding can be performed with capacitor discharge or drawn arc stud welding techniques, and it’s frequently used for a number of construction projects. Some common large-scale applications of stud welding in the construction industry include parking structures, high-rise buildings, stadiums, water towers, and bridges.

 

Bridges in particular require a specific approach to construction when it comes to the application of stud welding.

 

Stud Welds in a Bridge

 

Stud welding is used on many types of bridges. The primary functional role of stud weld points in the vast majority of bridges is to hold and and/or strengthen shear connectors to the concrete base:

 

  1. Connection Points: Stud welding is used to form powerful connections. This process permits contraction and expansion movement with temperature changes and wind affecting the bridge without compromising structural integrity.
  2. Plate Connection Points: Certain bridge components are made up of steel plating and other similar sections put together to form the full bridge structure. These sections are often connected using a stud welding process of tying them to concrete. Specifically, stud welding is often used to connect steel girders to concrete slabs combined with powerful meshes, forming a durable, flexible connection.
  3. Anti-Skid Studs. These studs create the rumbling effect that drivers hear entering and exiting a bridge.

 

Without the added strength and necessary allowance for motion in the face of weather and wind that stud welding provides, bridges would not be as safe and effective as they are today.

Find Your Construction Stud Welding Supplies Here

To learn more about construction stud welding or other applications of stud welding, contact Northland Fastening Systems at (651) 730-7770 or request a quote today.

 

Choosing the Right Stud Welding Supplies for Your Project

Stud welding provides a stronger, cleaner, and longer lasting weld that can benefit a variety of industries. However, not all stud welding is the same and different types of projects require different types of stud welding supplies. Where do you start? The stud welding experts at Northland Fastening Systems are here to help.

Today, we’re going to explore some of the different stud welding supplies we carry and which types of jobs they’re perfect for.

CD Studs

CD or capacitor discharge stud welding is perfect for working with lighter materials such as sheet metal. With a smaller diameter weld, CD stud welding provides a strong weld without sacrificing aesthetics. You won’t see any reverse-side dimples or backside marking. If you’re working on electrical enclosures, sheet metal fabrication, or food grade welding, CD stud welding may be the best option. If you decide to go the CD stud welding route, we have a variety of CD stud welding units available, including those with automation.

Arc Studs

For more robust projects, consider arc stud welding. This type of stud welding produces larger diameter welds (up to 1-1/4”) and is better for working with denser base materials. Arc stud welding provides greater strength and is preferred for structural steel fabrication, construction equipment manufacturing, or other industrial projects. They can even be used in heavy-duty concrete embedments. We carry a variety of anchor studs and weld studs for whatever your arc stud welding project needs.

CD Weld Pins

Your project may require you to insulate the metal you’re working with. CD weld pins can help you quickly and reliably attach insulation and are easy to use.

From industrial jobs using heavy base metals to jobs that require strength without sacrificing appearances, stud welding can get the job done. Whatever your project, Northland Fastening has these, and more stud welding supplies you need. Not only do we carry a huge inventory of stud welding supplies, we also have the expertise you need and the great customer service you want. Contact us today at (651) 730-7770 or request a quote for more information!

Threaded Stud Welding 101 – How to Use Our Threaded Stud Welds

Although we don’t provide threaded stud welding services, we want to help you use our products in the most efficient way possible.

We use our blog to educate people on the benefits of stud welding and its different applications because we understand how important it is to help you get the most out of our products.

Today, we’re going to discuss the basics of threaded stud welding.

After reading our tips, check out our inventory to find the perfect weld stud for your project.

Threaded Stud Welding 101

Stud welding is the process of joining metal parts together.

The difference between stud welding and traditional welding—stud welding happens instantly through a heated charge.

This process is faster, more efficient, and less costly over time.

There are different types of weld studs that are used for different purposes.

Some weld studs have threads —patterns in the metal—and some don’t. Different thread sizes are needed for different applications. If you have a question about which thread is right for your project, just ask us and we’ll find the perfect fit.

Let’s break down some of the differences between thread types and their use.

Full Thread Studs

Full thread studs have a thread running across the entirety of the stud from the top to the bottom.

Full thread studs can be used to weld on both flat surfaces and angled ones.

They have a wide variety of applications, including sheet metal fabrication and use in the automobile industry. If you need the full weld stud base for strength and the fillet weld will not get in the way of another part, a full threaded stud would be your best option.

Partial Thread Studs

Partial thread studs have a thread running along part of the stud instead of from top to bottom. They also have the ability to be used for welding on flat surface and angles, but they have slightly different applications.

If you’re concerned about the fillet weld getting in the way of a mating part or bushing, partial threads are the way to go. The weld end is smaller in diameter and the fillet weld generally stays within the thread diameter so it will not interfere with a mating part.  Their application is more versatile and can be better at holding certain types of objects in place. The non-threaded portion of the stud provides more shear strength, which means it’s better at holding the load of a resisting object.

Is Threaded Stud Welding Right for Your Job?

Again, we don’t provide threaded stud welding services, but we can help you find the right stud for your job.

If you have additional questions or would like to place an order, please reach out on our contact page or call us at (651) 730-7770.

 

5 Frequently Asked Questions about Stud Welding ANSWERED!

We get a lot of questions about stud welding; how it works, the benefits, and what its applications are. As experts in this area, we wanted to answer some of the common questions we hear! Don’t see your question here? Our experts are more than happy to answer any and all of your questions. Just contact us at (651) 730-7770 and one of our friendly professionals will be happy to help.

  1. What Applications can Stud Welding be Used for? One of the benefits of stud welding is its versatility. It’s perfect for a variety of applications including, but not limited to, structural steel fabrication, sheet metal fabrication, and electrical enclosures.
  2. Is Stud Welding Cost Efficient? Yes! And let us tell you why; it gives you a strong, quality weld that often outlasts the materials around the weld. One welder alone can perform fast, precision welding, saving you time and money without sacrificing quality.
  3. What Materials Work with Stud Welding? Stud welding isn’t just versatile in its application, but also in materials it can be used with. It works for materials including aluminum, brass, stainless steel, low carbon steel, and more!
  4. What’s the Difference between CD & Arc Welding? While both forms of welding provide a high-quality weld, CD welding is better for lighter materials where aesthetics are important. Because it uses energy stored in capacitors and typically is a smaller diameter weld end, it won’t mar the opposite side of the materials. Arc stud welding typically uses larger diameter weld studs and is better for structural steel fabrication and working with more heavy-duty materials.
  5. What Industries can Benefit from Stud Welding? Thanks to its versatility in terms of material compatibility and applications, it’s a great option for a variety of industries. A few industries include shipbuilding, automotive, construction, and environmental engineering.

We hope we’ve answered all of your questions. However, if we haven’t, feel free to contact us! As experts, we can answer all of your questions and help you find the right products and equipment for your job. Ready to start your project? Shop our extensive inventory of welding products today!

Using the Right Welding Studs for the Right Project

Stud welding is a highly effective process for forming strong connection points quickly and with a clean finish. However effective stud welding is, it’s not as effective as it could be if you’re using the wrong welding studs. There are several types of welding processes that require different studs, and understanding which studs are best for the weld gun, welding unit, and material you want to weld is key to successful production. Northland Fastening Systems provides a wide range of welding studs suitable for any project you need to complete.

From drawn arc stud welding to capacitor discharge stud welding, NFS offers welding services in addition to tools (available for rental and purchase), and of course, welding studs. No matter what format you need to fit your studs in, you can find what you’re looking for with NFS.

Common Welding Studs

Some of the most common welding studs that NFS offers that are suitable for a range of stud welding projects include:

  1. Flanged CD Welding Studs: Made from stainless steel, aluminum, brass, or low carbon steel, flanged studs range in stud and flange diameter, thread, and length. Flanged studs can be annealed for durability and strength and plated in copper for heightened electrical conductivity.
  2. Non-Flanged CD Welding Studs: Similar to flanged, non-flanged CD welding studs can be made from the same materials with the same annealing or plating processes. The difference lies in the size of the top of the stud. For a clean weld in applications where a flange would interfere with the materials being connected (often stud welding production with sheet metal), non-flanged studs are highly effective.
  3. Threaded Arc Welding Studs: Both fully or partially threaded arc welding studs are made from mild steel or stainless steel and can be of varying thread size, length, and stud diameter. These studs can be used in applications where a peg stud has to protrude from the weld point (partial thread) or fully welded into a material (full thread).
  4. Anchor Arc Welding Studs: Varying in stud length and diameter, anchor arc welding studs are made from low carbon steel or stainless steel. They are useful in forming peg studs of various lengths protruding from the weld point that offer a reliable, strong weight capacity.
  5. Bar Anchor Studs: Made from low carbon steel and available in a range of diameters and lengths, bar anchor studs are key in load-bearing production and provide a highly durable connection point.
  6. CD Welding Pins: Thin CD welding pins are made from mild steel and often have a copper plating to support conductivity. They create a nail-like point for lightweight support and connection useful in many building interior installation projects like, for example, installing insulation.

In addition to our range of studs, we offer quality goods and services in a pinch. Contact Northland Fastening Systems at (651) 730-7770 to learn more about our stud welding services and equipment.

7 Considerations for an Electrical Enclosure Design

The modern world relies on electricity. Nowhere is a strong, reliable electrical connection more essential than in industrial and commercial settings where workers depend on the power to complete their tasks appropriately and safely on a daily basis.

In addition to the physical wiring that provides electrical currents, building systems also require electrical enclosures to maintain appropriate working conditions for the system. Because the electrical system for each building depends on the energy needed, enclosures must often be custom designed.

In this blog, we list seven of the fundamental considerations that must be factored into the design for an electrical enclosure. Continue reading “7 Considerations for an Electrical Enclosure Design”

4 Important Considerations When Designing Food-Handling Equipment

Food Handling Equipment

Designing a commercial kitchen or food-service processing facility requires careful planning to ensure all materials and construction techniques meet safe food-handling standards. Standards from the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) must be diligently followed depending on the type of food being handled, processed or served.

If you’re in the process of planning a food-service operation from scratch, take time to familiarize yourself with the rules and requirements for your food-handling equipment. Pay attention to the four tips listed below as you create your equipment designs.

1. Create Projects Without Hidden Risks

As you design your equipment, avoid hidden areas where food can get trapped and begin rotting or growing bacteria. Dead ends in processing equipment, right-angle joints in tubing, lap-welded joints and other design flaws are ideal places for food to accumulate during processing. Continue reading “4 Important Considerations When Designing Food-Handling Equipment”