Traditional fastening methods like drilling, tapping, riveting, and adhesives all have their place. They can be effective in certain applications, particularly for one-off jobs or custom fabrication. But for modern shops that focus on throughput and repeatable results, the question must be asked: are these methods helping you move faster, or are they quietly slowing you down?
The Limits of Traditional Fastening
Drilling and Tapping
- Multiple steps: drill, tap, clean, install
- Consumables wear out quickly — drill bits, taps, and cutting fluids add ongoing costs
- Weakens the base material by removing metal
- Slower process, especially at scale
Riveting
- More labour-intensive with extra handling required
- Produces a bulkier finish that lacks a clean appearance
- Limited strength compared to welded connections
- Adds unnecessary steps to finishing processes
Adhesives
- Cure times delay production flow
- Limited strength in high-load applications
- Poor performance in repetitive or high-volume jobs
- Application is messy and inconsistent between operators
The Stud Welding Advantage
One-Step Fastening
Stud welding eliminates the multi-step processes of drilling, tapping, or riveting. With one trigger pull, the stud is fused directly to the base metal. No adhesives, no additional hardware, and no secondary cleanup.
Consistent Structural Strength
Every stud weld forms a metallurgical bond stronger than both the fastener and the base material. The process ensures repeatable strength and reliability, regardless of operator skill.
Clean Finish
Stud welding creates a smooth, flush surface without protruding rivets, messy adhesives, or drilled holes. This is particularly valuable in applications such as stainless steel facades, elevator interiors, or any project where finish quality matters.
Faster Installations
Because each weld takes less than a second, throughput increases dramatically. More parts per hour, fewer bottlenecks, and less wasted labour add up to measurable efficiency gains.
When Traditional Methods Make Sense
For low-volume or highly customized jobs, traditional fastening methods may still be practical. But as production scales up, or when deadlines tighten, the limitations of drilling, riveting, or adhesives quickly become hidden roadblocks.
Why Stud Welding Wins
Stud welding builds speed, consistency, and strength directly into the process. These qualities are exactly what modern OEMs and fabricators need to stay competitive. The difference in throughput and long-term cost savings is not theoretical — it is measurable on every production line.
Partner With Davis Stud Welding
Davis Stud Welding provides the equipment, fasteners, and expertise to help manufacturers move beyond outdated fastening methods. With more than 12 years of specialized stud welding experience and over 30 years in the service industry, our team supports OEMs and fabricators with reliable, efficient solutions tailored to demanding production needs.
Contact our sales team today to compare stud welding with your current fastening methods and see how much faster and more cost-effective your projects can become.