About Underwater Welding

Function
Underwater welding is utilized in making repairs to pipelines, offshore oil platforms and ships. This saves the company both time and money that it would cost to lift the structures out of the water first. This would not be a possible feat for some of the structures. A specially trained welder performs the repairs.

Types
There are two major types of underwater welding--wet and dry. They both are a form of hyperbaric welding, which is a high pressure welding method. Wet welding takes place in a completely wet setting. Dry underwater welding is performed in a dry chamber. The area needing fixed is surrounded with a chamber and the water is pumped out. The welder works inside of this dry chamber.

Identification
Underwater welders are specially trained, certified and work in teams. There are numerous underwater welding schools located around the United States and the world. Most underwater welders use air supplied from above in place of the standard scuba breathing apparatuses. They are in continuous contact with team members on the surface for safety reasons.

Considerations
Any one thinking about becoming an underwater welder must consider the dangers involved. It is a very exciting and rewarding career for any one who has the discipline needed to be successful. You must be comfortable being underwater at various remote locations around the world in sometimes awkward surroundings.

Warning
Underwater welders have a danger of electric shock. Numerous precautions must be taken to prevent this situation. This includes insulation on equipment and turning off the power instantly when the welding is finished. There are also risks of explosions from combinations of oxygen and hydrogen pockets being ignited. Another serious danger is from nitrogen accumulating in the welders' bloodstream from the high pressure. Decompression chambers and extra divers are used to avert this danger.