The creation of a joint using a filler (welding rod) of similar composition to the metal being joined, using electricity to generate an arc.

This guide gives an overview of the types of things that should be considered when planning an activity that uses metal based materials. 

Thermoplastic materials are joined using a jet of hot air to melt and fuse the plastics material. A filler rod of the same material may be used to reinforce the joint.

The cutting to required length of workpieces from stock bars or rods of both ferrous and non-ferrous material using a power saw. Power sawing can be done by reciprocating power hacksaws, by metal cutting band saws and by special chop saws designed for cutting metal.