At the present, all my work has been accomplished using the torch made of oxyacetylene. And I am able to say with certainty that all the work to come is going to be accomplished using the torch. However,gasfjedre I’ve always been interested in the arc welding. Particularly since the welding process is instantaneous thanks to the high temperature of 10000 degrees. This is particularly useful for tasks that take long to complete using the torch, such as making tables for welding.
So , last weekend, I walked into Harbor Freight to pick up their tiny 8 pound inverter welding machine. I did spend $200, but I needed an autodarkening helmet, chipping hammer, as well as some magnets. I bought the 2 year guarantee just in case. Yes , I know that lots of people criticize Chinese welding equipment a bad rep. Let me say that this welder is actually quite decent for the cost. It’s not designed for the professional welder that does structural work , but for art purposes , it is perfect for me. I am currently using 6013 1/4 ” electrodes for this moment. I’ve noticed they’re slightly shallow and at times in small joints I need to cover them since first it’s the only flux that actually lays down. Any suggestions that are civilized would be welcome.
I’m ashamed to share my work at this point, however I will do so in another blog as I refine my techniques. However, for now, I will examine this method. Let me begin with the advantages of Arc welding. One of them is that it’s less costly in terms of apparatus as compared to MIG as well as TIG welding. Additionally the heat is instantaneous and could be ideal for welding armatures using tack welding and furniture made of metal that you complete with the oxyacetylene. In addition, because you’re not warming the metal by burning it so the heat is concentrated and warpage is significantly diminished. Also, this particular welding machine I own is extremely light weight, and has no gas gauges to monitor.
This is the second section of the analysis. The negative or cons. Arc welding is also known as stick welding as electrodes are fixated to work. This is particularly true for metallic that has rust, and inadequate amp settings and at the end the rod is smoldering, blocking the circuit. Another disadvantage is that of the power line. It is not possible to use extension cords as they can lower the amp output of your welder unless your extension cord is of the same as or thicker than the one on the welder. Due to this, I’m limited to 5 feet of my electrical outlet, until I alter the electrical wiring. The flux is the final thing. It is essential to hit the work with a hammer in order to remove the flux out. What else can you tell that you’ve put a solid weld down?
In the end taking the good along alongside the bad I’d be interested in continuing to train and get better in this field. The equipment and method will surely be useful in the future work, along with my torch. I’ll be able to welding steel pieces that are too large for my torch by beveling, and then making several cycles with electrodes. The next installment of the series on arc welding will examine the various types of electrodes.