mig or stick for 5mm 50mm box?

[123hotchef]

I am not up on my mig welding skills yet, But need to fab something out of 50mm box my snap 180 on mig will probably be capable of this job but I prefer using the stick welder, only because that is what I am use to and have the most experience with. So should I practice a bit on some scrap the use the mig or stick forgive the pun to what I know.

 

[rikrobson]

Id stick with the stick

 

[cumbriasteve]

I always prefer mig now, I used nothing but stick for most my life but I am converted simply because it's fast, easier (in my opinion) and cleaner.

 

[123hotchef]

I need to practice some then!

 

[Arclikeharrypotter]

Have a play on some scrap 50×5 box, get your settings dialed in, then it's as simple as pushing or pulling your torch!

I'm like you always used stick, find it quick and easy, but now I take the time to dial in setting on the mig, keep a note of them and then it's an easy run!

 

[Shedendman]

You maybe running that sip at full wack so off a 13amp plug(assuming that is) you might be over doing it

 

[123hotchef]

You maybe running that sip at full wack so off a 13amp plug(assuming that is) you might be over doing it

it is a snap on mig welder and yes it is on a 13amp plug but that could be easily changed to a 16amp in the need arrises

 

[Shedendman]

Opps sorry snappy not sippy

 

[slim_boy_fat]

But need to fab something

More info about the ultimate purpose of the "something" might help elicit sound advice as to the more suitable process? [e.g. decorative, load-bearing etc]

 

[rikrobson]

More info about the ultimate purpose of the "something" might help elicit sound advice as to the more suitable process? [e.g. decorative, load-bearing etc]

Shouldn't really matter if the process is done correctly, with the right penetration. If @123hotchef is used to Stick and his mig will be on its limit then it makes moresense to use MMA instead of MIG. Having said that a 180 Mig should do 5mm fine and he might only have a Buzz box.

 

[Johnseat]

Because I've only got 0.6mm mig wire I'd have to use my stick welder but saying that I would reach for the stick at that thickness anyways.

 

[WorkshopChris]

5mm box with a 180 machine i would personally use the mig to tack everything up. Easy and fast, then weld the rest with mma stick once tacked.

 

[123hotchef]

Ok I am making a table but the table will slide into the receiver hitch on my pick up so picture this L shaped box with a angle brace plate on top of that with a wooden top.

I have a lincoln inverter that will weld that no problem. But if the mig will do it and be strong enough then why not, I know what you are saying Chris but if the mig is out and gas is on then why not do the whole job it it?

Does one leave a gap between the mitred joint like with stick when welding it with mig?

 

[123hotchef]

i have .8mm wire in the mig too

 

[WorkshopChris]

See how it goes if you are getting a true 180 then you should be ok, with co2 or an argon mix.

 

[123hotchef]

i have both gases here too ;-) spoilt for choice lol I have not used the argosheild yet

 

[WorkshopChris]

Depending on your argon mix with 0.8mm wire you might get into spray transfer. Someone without a fried brain might be along with more info.

 

[123hotchef]

how did u fry it chris? Straight co2 then?

 

[WorkshopChris]

Tramadol , longs story.

If you have a 5% mix it might, personally have not tried pure co2.

 

[123hotchef]

cheers not sure what it is now TBH, I have been doing just fine with pure CO2