What is NOT typically used to hold panels tightly together when welding?

When considering the methods used to hold panels tightly together during welding, fixtures are commonly employed in industrial applications. They are specifically designed to hold workpieces in place for precision welding and other operations. However, they are not the only method used.

C-Clamps and locking pliers are frequently used in a variety of welding scenarios because they can securely hold panels together, allowing for an adequate fit before welding. Sheet metal screws can also effectively pull panels together as they are fastened, providing a temporary hold that allows welders to proceed with the welding process without gaps.

In contrast, fixtures, while critical in certain welding practices, are less commonly utilized for basic adhesion of panels in a quick or less structured welding project. They are more associated with maintaining specific geometries and orientations rather than simply holding materials together as other tools can do. Thus, when identifying what is not typically used to hold panels tightly, recognizing the specific role of fixtures in welding compared to more straightforward tools like C-clamps, locking pliers, and sheet metal screws leads to understanding why fixtures stand out in this context.