WELDING 101

1. You can’t weld dirt

The metal needs to be clean, the gas needs to be clean, the table needs to be clean, the welding rod or wire needs to be clean, your gloves need to be clean, etc.

2. You can’t weld air

The fit of the panels to be welded is critical. Often a tightly-fitted joint is best. If you prefer to have a gap between the panels, it’s important that the gap is consistent, and usually not wider than one material thickness.

3. If you can’t see, you can’t weld

It’s extremely important to do whatever it takes to give yourself a good view of the welding area. Moving your body to a more favorable position, adding more light, cleaning your welding lens, selecting the proper shade of lens, and using glasses and magnifiers can be immensely helpful.

4. Do a Practice Run

You may be surprised how beneficial it is to move your hands, arms, and body through the path you’ll navigate when you actually make the weld. Sometimes a small adjustment in your body position (like moving your supporting elbow a little) can allow you to move the torch or gun with better control, or to follow a longer path. Also, you’re building up ‘muscle memory’ which will give you better control when you’re actually making the weld.

5. Get comfortable

Making a good weld requires precise body control, and this is hard to achieve if you’re not comfortable. It’s best to be seated when welding, or if this is not possible, look for support from anything you can lean against, or prop your hand, arm, or shoulder against as you make your weld.

6. Be in a good mood

Trying to fill a hole immediately after you burned it may not work very well. It might be better to wait until the aggravation has passed.

7. Position matters

Horizontal is easiest, vertical is more challenging, and upside down is never ideal. Sometimes you have to do ‘out of position’ welding, but it’s always good to look for a way to avoid it.

8. Read the Manual

The manufacturers who make welding equipment want you to use it in the best way possible. Be sure that you at least start with the settings recommended by the manufacturer.