Underwater welding is a profession that combines diving and welding in an extreme and dangerous environment; therefore, it requires extensive training and considerable experience to handle many risks. The nature of such activity implies a high for underwater welder death rate, but what is the figure?
Despite the dangers, underwater welding offers unique and very lucrative opportunities, as According to Indeed an underwater welder can expect to earn an average of $88,000 per year, although this figure can vary depending on experience and job availability.
How is underwater welding performed?
Once equipped with specialized equipment, divers dive into the ocean. Wearing wetsuits, they launch from a boat and use helmets equipped with integrated communication systems to stay in contact with their team on the surface.
The oxygen source for the divers does not come from a conventional scuba tank, but from a type of “umbilical cord”. Breathing gas is supplied through a hose from the surface to the diver’s control point. They descend equipped with electrodes and flashlights, specially designed for underwater inspections and repairs.
It is important to note that underwater welding can be performed in two ways:
- Dry: this is carried out inside a sealed chamber or habitat that is filled with compressed gas (usually helium) and placed around the area to be welded. This creates a surface-like environment, allowing the welder to use the same equipment and techniques as on land.
- Wet: it is performed directly in water, without any protection around the area to be welded. Here the welder uses a special electrode covered with a waterproof material that generates an electric arc under water. This electric arc heats and melts the metals to be joined.
Mortality rate of underwater welder death rate
One of the most dangerous professions in the world is underwater welding. According to Gitnux has a mortality rate of up to 15%. To practice it, it is necessary to know how to weld both dry and wet, in addition to being a professional diver with advanced skills to work in the depths of the sea.
Another relevant aspect is the statistic from the International Marine Contractors Association, which states that 1 out of every 20 offshore divers dies on the job within 10 years.
Likewise, it is estimated that the average life of a subsea welder is around 35 to 40 years.
Underwater welding is a crucial technique for the maritime sector, as it facilitates the repair or construction of underwater structures. underwater structures, such as pipelines such as pipelines, platforms and ships. However, it is an extremely difficult and dangerous technique, which demands intensive training, experience and rigorous precautionary measures.
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Source: ladbible.com
Photo: shutterstock
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