Why is Fitter Math so important?
In an earlier article we mentioned that all exceptional welders have basic math skills. These skills are necessary if you plan to ever get good at the craft, for reasons that may not be so obvious. In reality, when we say fitter math we are referring to the basic algebra that we are forced to learn in a high school setting. The fact of the matter is that it’s kind of challenging to weld properly and pick up jobs if it’s difficult for you to measure angles and perform simple calculations.
Just remember, it isn’t as hard as you think
It’s common knowledge that many people get frightened when they see even a bit of math. In reality, we all think that things that involve math require us to do things the “hard” way. In reality, when you force yourself to perform trial and error experiments all of the time because you don’t know the formulas that will get you the exact measurements you need to get it right the first time you try. When you first look at fitter math we ask that you do one thing, keep an open mind. It isn’t as hard as we make it seem.
As with welding, when you first approach fitter math you have to be incredibly patient. You likely won’t get it right on your first try but as you keep learning I’m sure that you’ll figure it out. Despite the fact that it will save you quite a bit of time, it will also make sure that your clients are always happy with the work you do for them.
The connection between reading blueprints and fitter math
Video by Hanging With Heavy explaining fitter math
Before we open up on this section of the article, we ask you one thing – when you first start looking at blueprints don’t think everything is about the symbols, because it isn’t.
Why? Because welding is not all about knowing welding symbols – it’s more about knowing the math that goes into welding. We say this because it’s much easier to weld if you know how to weld efficiently, which means, with math. The symbols that are apart of welding can easily be learned on the job, the math can’t.
Keep in mind that when you’re welding many of the blueprints that you come into contact with won’t have the exact reference points that you need. Another thing to keep in mind is that a majority of engineers also make the mistake of overlooking certain key details that are necessary for the weld to be performed. Don’t blame the engineer because they also have tight schedule and relatively large workloads. When you first get your hands on a new blueprint it’s helpful to take a seat and figure out exactly where you’re likely to run into an engineer induced mistake.
It may not seem like it but, fitter math is probably the best option you have
If you want to save yourself sometime in the long run learning fitter math is probably your best choice. If you want to spend a great deal of time on each and every one your projects, then continue using the trial-and-error method of fabrication. If you want to be precise in your movements, then we suggest that you learn fitter math.
