17.1 Welding Cost Calculations

The choice of a particular welding process is usually made on cost as well as technical terms. Technical limitations can be such as the type of material, its thickness, the type of joint required and/or welding position, i.e. factors that are directly linked to the capabilities of the particular welding method. In addition, there are limitations that may be imposed by special quality requirements, production resources in the factory, the work environment and so on. Despite potential benefits, a company may not have been able to invest in new welding equipment or a new welding method, with all that is involved in terms of equipment cost, training of personnel and bringing the new facilities into production.

As a result, the general determining factor in deciding on a particular welding process is usually cost - that is, to choose a process that produces the required quality at the lowest possible cost. This is assisted by a method of making welding cost calculations by means of a refined internal cost analysis procedure that calculates the costs that are specific to the welding element of the work. Traditionally, these costs are regarded as consisting of those for labour, consumables (which include shielding gas and backing materials), equipment and energy. There are, of course, many other costs, such as those for joint preparation, inspection, painting etc., all of which must be considered. The following material considers only the costs connected to job made by the welder.

Internal cost calculation can...