Welding is an ancient science that has evolved to extremes. In outer space, metals that are in contact with one another will weld instantly. In addition, bare metal that has been polished to a high polish will weld on its own. This is because metallic bonds will bridge the gap between the two pieces, creating a solid piece. In the world of Earth, however, welding takes place in dry environments. While some welding is done underwater, the process is largely the same.
Welding has made it possible to construct incredibly tall structures. The first skyscraper was not Nikola Tesla’s Wardenclyffe Tower. It was the Eiffel Tower, which was completed in 1889. The Eiffel Tower, which was originally a radio antenna, is still standing today. In 1908, construction on the New York City Metropolitan Life Insurance Company tower began. Welding enabled architects to build skyscrapers that are over 500 feet tall.
The earliest evidence of welding goes back at least two thousand years BC. It is believed that ancient Egyptians made use of welding to join metal objects. Welding dates back to the Bronze Age, when welding began in the Middle East. Interestingly enough, the first images of a welder were found in sealed Egyptian tombs. The first industrial robot in history was invented to spot-weld. Eventually, it became an essential part of ship construction.
