hey guys i got my 2nd welding class in a couple of days and i was wondering if you guys have any tips for me. Right now we are just making straight flat beads across a steel plate. I'm using one of the thinner sticks cause i heard it easier to get started. That is my first problem i keep getting the rod stuck to the plate any tips on how to get a good start ? and my welds look like total shat i tried up down and half moons any other suggestions ? i appreciate it

btw just for some background about myself im a union glazier and the apprentice training school offers welding for free so i decided to take it. I have always wanted to weld, and we do a lot of metal work in the shop I work with (tig and mig)

 

yeah i had the same problem when i started. Try to keep the stick moving before you touch it to the metal. What I do is make small circular motions and then when it starts to weld just do what you want.

 

i've never done that is it harder than tig?


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try striking the stick like a match. a smaller diameter stick needs less power, so you can probably turn it down to get a better looking weld. if you have slag inclusions, try getting more travel angle. Your work angle should be perpendicular to the weld. The hardest part, as I'm sure you know by now, is keeping the arc length. Also, don't travel too fast, and I like making circles.. I think it's easier than either of the back & forth motions.

 

just try to keep a nice consistent arc length - while keeping in mind how quickly the electrode gets consumed. If you really aren't picking it up as quick as you should, try using a drag rod - it requires very little technique to master

 

thanks guys, i am also going to pick up a better mask i was having a little trouble seeing. Do you guys hold the stinger with one or two hands ? I would post some pics of my welds but there so bad and i was very inconsistant, once i get a little better i will get you guys some pics