joining

Shielded metal arc welding, or stick welding, is one of the most commonly used welding processes. The metal to be joined is heated by means of an electric arc created between the welding tool's coated electrode and the metal.

Putting parts together to make new products. This is called assembling. Materials can be joined together in a number of different ways. The joints can be temporary or permanent, they can be fixed, or they can move. Joints can be made by shaping the materials so that they fit together. There is a wide range of joints that are used to fit timber pieces together (see woodworking joints). The materials can be attached by using adhesives or by welding (arc welding and spot welding), brazing, or soldering the materials together. Materials can also be joined by using special fittings such as nails, screws, or rivets.