Benpointer
Member
- Messages
- 49
- Location
- Dorset, UK
Hi,
I have just got started with MIG welding following an evening course. I bought a secondhand Migatronic 180 MXE which is a joy to use. So far I have made a bench out of 30mm box and 6mm plate mild steel, and also a couple of sets of wheels for my table saw and planer/thicknesser out of ms box and angle. So far so good.
I fancy having a go at some stainless sculptures for the garden (yes, probably yet another dragonfly!). I would be looking at using 0.9mm or 1.2mm sheet and 4 or 5mm rod. Maybe some 2-3mm walled tube too.
My questions are:
1. Can I get away with the Argonshield light gas I have got? I can't really afford a second gas bottle. I know I will need to use stainless wire. I am not looking for perfect looking welds but would prefer them not to come apart () and not to rust.
2. What grade of stainless do I need? 303, 304, 316? We are not near the coast but any sculptures that pass the Artistic Director's scrutiny will be outside in the garden.
Any advice, gratefully received.
Thanks
I have just got started with MIG welding following an evening course. I bought a secondhand Migatronic 180 MXE which is a joy to use. So far I have made a bench out of 30mm box and 6mm plate mild steel, and also a couple of sets of wheels for my table saw and planer/thicknesser out of ms box and angle. So far so good.
I fancy having a go at some stainless sculptures for the garden (yes, probably yet another dragonfly!). I would be looking at using 0.9mm or 1.2mm sheet and 4 or 5mm rod. Maybe some 2-3mm walled tube too.
My questions are:
1. Can I get away with the Argonshield light gas I have got? I can't really afford a second gas bottle. I know I will need to use stainless wire. I am not looking for perfect looking welds but would prefer them not to come apart () and not to rust.
2. What grade of stainless do I need? 303, 304, 316? We are not near the coast but any sculptures that pass the Artistic Director's scrutiny will be outside in the garden.
Any advice, gratefully received.
Thanks