When I first started running beads with stick, one of the biggest headaches I had was figuring out the right amperage setting for different rods and metal thicknesses. Too low, and the arc would stick and sputter; too high, and…
If you’ve ever pulled off your hood to find tiny holes pockmarking your weld bead, you’ve likely encountered porosity in arc welding. It’s one of those frustrating defects that can turn a solid weld into a weak, unreliable joint. As…
I can’t count how many times I’ve been in the middle of a MIG weld, thinking everything was set up right, only to run into spatter everywhere, poor penetration, or that dreaded bird-nesting at the wire feed. One of my…
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen new welders struggle with flames that are either too weak to penetrate thicker metal or too aggressive, leaving the joint brittle and full of porosity. Back when I first started learning…
Back when I first struck an arc in a cramped garage corner, I thought my biggest challenge would be dialing in the right settings for different rods and metal thickness. But I learned the hard way that even perfect arc…
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…
If you’re diving into TIG welding aluminum tips and tricks, you’re in for a rewarding challenge. Aluminum’s a beast to weld—light, conductive, and prone to quirks—but with the right know-how, you can lay down clean, strong beads that make your…
If you’re firing up a torch for gas welding, you’ve probably noticed that the flame you’re working with can make or break your weld. Understanding the types of gas welding flames and their applications is key to laying down strong,…
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…