1904
Elektriska SvetsningsAktieBolaget (ESAB) is founded in Göteborg. In the beginning, operations focused very clearly on the shipyards’ repair requirements.

1906
The first patent is granted. The real breakthrough is the patent for overhead welding with covered electrodes.

1912
The Anglo-Swedish Electric Welding Co Ltd, London, is founded.

1914
The Belgian-Swedish Electric Welding Co Ltd (BSEW), Antwerp, is founded.

1919
La Soudure Autogène Française uses Kjellberg’s method to build the ship "SAF no. 4". It is 20 metres long, 4 metres wide and 2.3 metres deep.

1920
Lloyd’s Register of Shipping approves Kjellberg’s welding method.
The all-welded workshop boat "ESAB IV", 16 metres long and 4 metres wide, is launched.