Have you ever operated a 10,000℉ flame underwater? Think it sounds hard? Persistence and focus are the keys to mastering this skill in Month 4. In this course, you’ll learn the skills you need to both weld and burn underwater. You’ll also get familiar with many new tools. Topside you’ll use the electrode holder, chipping hammer, wire brush, 6010 electrodes, 7018 electrodes, oxy fuel rig which consists of a striker and a smith torch, as well as basic hand tools like grinders and wire wheels. In the water you’ll use twist lock electrode holders, chipping hammers, wire brushes, 7014 electrodes, and Broco exothermic torches. Underwater welding creates a picture of a Shield Metal Arc welder working at depth. This is known as “wet welding.” The diver is wet, the repair is wet, the welding rod is wet. This is a very common method of underwater welding, and is what our training focuses on. Another method of underwater welding is known as “habitat welding,” which is done underwater but in a sheltered environment void of water to keep the welding area dry. A dry habitat is installed where either the diver enters from the water into the dry habitat or where the habitat is enclosed so that the welding rod and welding environment stay dry. Both methods take skill and practice. Within our curriculum at DIT, you’ll learn how these processes work and gain practical experience in testing your underwater welding skills. A lot of folks think underwater welding might seem dangerous, but we train you to manage the risks by safe practices. We teach you to use safety considerations of welding in straight polarity, the inclusion of a circuit interrupter, i.e. a knife switch, how the work lead is placed on the project, and the correct use of rubber insulated hand protection. All these factors make underwater welding safe and productive.