I have been using a very small tungsten, but this weekend my friend said I should be using a larger one. What do you guys recommend? What is the difference when using a small vs large tungsten?

Also the same with filler rod I have been using very small filler rod. I tried to use thicker stuff but the weld turned out even worse.

And the cup size I have been using is a #6 good or bad?

Sorry if these are noob questions just trying to get better and only way to do that is to ask.

 

You use different size tungstens depending upon what amperage and what size puddle you want. If you want a small puddle you want to use the smallest possible tungsten you can that won't melt. As far as filler goes, it's more of a preference (do you want to feed in a bunch of filler or just a small dab) but also has to do with the size of the weld puddle and what amperage you're running and if there is a gap.

 

I had luck going to Wilson Products up near the crossings and getting a small card that shows recommended tungsten and filler sizes by for each type and thickness of metal. It helps get you closer to where you should be, but doesn't have to be followed word for word. The guy gave it to me for free. You should stop by up there if you have a chance and see if they have any more to pick up or you could check out mine.

 

was just tig weldin tonight

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by 91TSiGuy &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">I had luck going to Wilson Products up near the crossings and getting a small card that shows recommended tungsten and filler sizes by for each type and thickness of metal. It helps get you closer to where you should be, but doesn't have to be followed word for word. The guy gave it to me for free. You should stop by up there if you have a chance and see if they have any more to pick up or you could check out mine.</TD></TR></TABLE>

Would any welding shop sell these? That is a pretty far drive but if I get up that way I will grab one.

 

this link is to a $20 book from miller, and it will have everything you really need to know about TIG process. you should read the whole thing.

http://www.millerwelds.com/education/TIGhandbook/

i find that there are few instances when i use 1/16" filler that i cant just fusion weld it with no filler. no filler is one less thing to worry about controlling and its usually faster, while being obviously cheaper, but ofcoarse requires flawless seams. if i have to make a root/cap, single fillet or angle piece, i use 1/8 or 3/32 rod. they last longer in your hand so there is less jamming rod like with tiny stuff, and then stopping to regrip or get more rod. i hate trying to finish that last inch of bead with that last 2" of rod and watching my fingertips smoke after.

 

3/32"

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by parasonic &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">3/32"</TD></TR></TABLE>you will use this size for most of your welding needs!

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by L-CON1 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">you will use this size for most of your welding needs!</TD></TR></TABLE>
yep

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by underpressure02 &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">Would any welding shop sell these? That is a pretty far drive but if I get up that way I will grab one. </TD></TR></TABLE>
Possibly, as long as they sell welders too. I'm actually heading there tomorrow to refill my tank so I'll see if I can grab another one for you.

In general reply though, I've found that 3/32 has been used for most of my projects so far. I've gone with 1/8" to weld intake runners to a 3/8" plenum, and also went with 1/16" to do some tack welds and material build up where some butt joints were burnt through. I'm probably in the same boat as you with learning right now though.

 

I don't even own any 1/16" tungsten. I've welded material as thin as .0006" with 3/32 tungsten. The puddle was about 1/16" diameter. The only time I go to 1/8" tungsten is if the 3/32 is getting hot and melting or breaking off and going into the puddle.

 

not to doubt you, but i wanna be sure that you dont have an extra zero in there. six ten-thousandths of an inch? thats thinner than paper.