Let me know what you think!


FCAW 1G 3/8" mild steel plate:




FCAW 3G, same material:





FCAW 4G, same as above:




GMAW 2F 3 pass on 1/8" mild steel plate:

I did this one a while ago, hence the rust.



I might post some more GMAW, SMAW, and OA later. We'll see.

 

the 4g looks decent except for the cows *****. kinda tricky to get away from in overhead though, but you kinda gotta pause longer and make sure that it doesn't glob out on you.

 

the 3g looks like you are pausing too long and moving too far ahead, you're using SMAW technique and thinking the electrode is thicker than it actually is. remember you move up 1 width of the electrode, side to side, then up 1 electrode width. you're probably running .045 XL-71 or similar gas flux wire? either way you should be pausing less, just enough for it to wash in, then jump across to the other side.

closest pic i have is a 4F to describe what i'm talking about

 

Not bad. I have to tell you that weaving on a flat fcaw test is not recommended.
It is not recommended on a 2gf either. Stringers give you the best weld properties.
The vertical up weld is ok, but as mentioned, you are stepping too much.
You have to "ride" the fluid part of teh puddle more. Don't be scared, it won't fall out with proper settings. The herringbone weave is old-shool, and should be reserved for SMAW. Flux core should look very smooth.
If your root passes were sufficient, it should be a fluid motion with really no pause
when sweeping across vertical up.
You can also run stringers in the vertical plane, it's a little tricky, but when you get it right, it looks impressive.
Welding is all about comfort.
The overhead is your best weld I think. It has a consistent profile, not so notchy.
It looks as if you would be over the allowed 1/8" cap on this one though. Try to set-up with the hot passes better. It has a bit of "wobble" to it, which tells me you were having trouble keeping steady.
The GMAW passes are ok, but look far too cold. I don't recommend a large whip like that either. You are welding plate, not gauge. Turn up the heat and let it flow out better.
Practice, ask, practice some more.
I would suggest GTAW or even OAW for puddle recognition, then move to SMAW, then FCAW, then GMAW.
Again, given the option, I would weld this position with stringers.
Hope this helps.
Got lot's of AWS and CWB tickets, Alberta Journeyman and Interprovincial Red Seal. Just giving constructive pointers. It's how I learned.

Good luck, post progress.

 

Most look good a couple look like dodo salad but over all good for a student.. a little slower travel speed and more time on the sides... good luck!!!!!!!!! i hate fcaw i love alluminium !!!!!

 

Thats decent.....is Mike back yet?

 

Thanks for the advice guys.

Yeah Ross, he's been back since September at least.