Oxy-Acetylene Welding

Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) is a competing welding process that, like oxy-acetylene welding, joins metals, but uses an electric arc and a consumable electrode instead of gas combustion. It is often chosen over oxy-acetylene for its portability and ability to weld thicker materials faster.

Brazing is a joining process similar to welding but does not melt the base metals. Instead, it uses a filler metal with a lower melting point. While not a direct substitute for all applications, it competes with oxy-acetylene welding in certain situations, particularly when joining dissimilar metals or when minimizing distortion is crucial.

MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding, also known as Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), is a competing arc welding process. It is generally faster and can be more automated than oxy-acetylene welding, making it suitable for higher volume production. It also offers better weld quality and is easier to learn in some instances.

TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding, also known as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), is a competing arc welding process offering precise control and high-quality welds, particularly on aluminum and other non-ferrous metals. While slower than some other methods, TIG welding competes with oxy-acetylene where precision and aesthetics are important.