Final answer:
In engineering, welding joins metal materials using heat and solder, with common applications in pipe fittings such as elbows, couplings, and tees. A propane torch may be used to solder copper pipes in residential water mains.
Step-by-step explanation:
Welding is a fundamental process in engineering where metal materials are joined together utilizing heat and solder. Common sources of heat for welding include gas, electricity, and laser, and this technique has been utilized for centuries, with forge welding being a classic method used by blacksmiths.
Three common pipe fittings that might involve welding include:
- Elbows: These fittings are used to change the direction of a pipe system. 90-degree elbows change the direction by a right angle, while 45-degree elbows adjust it by a smaller angle.
- Couplings: Used to connect two pipes together, couplings can be either slip-on or threaded, and if necessary, they can be welded to ensure a secure connection.
- Tees: A T-shaped fitting that splits a pipe into two directions. They come in various sizes and can be welded onto the main pipe to create a branch.
An example of welding in practical use for pipe fitting is the use of a propane torch to solder copper pipes, which is a process commonly seen in the assembly of residential water mains.