TechnicianVision · Knowledge base
Is A Spot Welder A Required Tool? UPDATE
I-CAR · April 15, 2022
Summary
This article highlights that vehicle manufacturers increasingly require or prefer squeeze-type resistant spot welding (STRSW) over conventional GMA welding due to the widespread use of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels. It emphasizes that a spot welder is a necessary piece of equipment to meet OEM-specific panel attachment requirements.
What to do on the job
Verify the OEM-specific panel attachment requirements for the vehicle being repaired and use squeeze-type resistant spot welding (STRSW) instead of GMA welding whenever required or recommended by the manufacturer.
How to use it
Use this document to justify the necessity of a squeeze-type resistant spot welder (STRSW) on estimates and supplements. It serves as industry-standard documentation from I-CAR showing that conventional GMA (MIG) welding is increasingly restricted by OEMs on advanced high-strength steel structures, making specialized spot welding equipment a safety and quality requirement rather than an optional tool.
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