Explore the essential building blocks of welding with our in-depth guides on materials and metalworking techniques. This category dives into the properties, uses, and weldability of various metals—from steel and aluminum to exotic alloys—helping you choose the right material for every project. Whether you’re cutting, shaping, grinding, or joining, you’ll find tips, tool recommendations, and expert advice to master the art of working with metal.
Welding on galvanized steel without removing the zinc coating is a mistake most of us only make once. The fumes are harsh, the puddle goes crazy, and the weld ends up full of porosity. That’s why learning how to remove…
One thing I learned early in my welding career is that how you store low hydrogen electrodes can make or break your weld quality. I once grabbed a box of 7018 rods that had been sitting open in the corner…
Whether you’re a DIY welder tinkering in your garage, a hobbyist crafting custom pieces, or a pro sticking to AWS codes, understanding KCl’s role in pH electrodes is a game-changer for weld quality and safety. Why does this matter in…
One thing every welder learns sooner or later is that not all rods can just sit on the bench overnight and still weld right the next day. Grab a handful of 7018s that have soaked up a bit of shop…
Whether you’re a DIYer fixing up a trailer, a hobbyist crafting a custom gate, or a pro welder prepping galvanized steel for a client, you’ve likely faced the challenge of painting over that shiny zinc coating. How to clean galvanized…
I can’t count how many times a weld went south on me simply because I rushed the prep and skipped properly cleaning the mild steel. Back when I first started burning rods, I thought a quick wire brush was “good…
Cutting metal has always been one of those steps that can make or break a weld job. Back when I was working on a stainless project, I learned fast that no matter how good your arc control is or which…
No pipe expander? With a bit of shop ingenuity you can still get a snug, weldable slip fit. Below are three safe, tried-and-true methods you can do with common gear, plus welding tips and safety must-knows. To expand an…
Whether you’re a DIYer fixing up a trailer, a hobbyist crafting custom furniture, a pro tackling industrial jobs, or a student learning the trade, picking the right metal is the foundation of a strong weld. We’re diving into types of…