Bead Size

[Wyn F]

Still out practising and just like to ask about the weld bead size
Depending on amps the beads come out flattened or like caterpillars ?
So is a raised bead a bad bead? Should it be just over flush every time?

 

[SBK]

Certainly when welding pipe you are looking for a slightly raised bead opposed to flush or undercut.
If your beads are flat or undercut usually to much amps,incorrect travel speed,not enough filler,or a combination of all.
depends on what your looking to achieve,if its a autogenous weld ( no filler ) then will tend to be undercut.

 

[BrokenBiker]

beads should be a bit pronounced but they should be quite shallow on a but weld.

 

[Wyn F]

Many thanks, still just doing random beads on flat plate or tube atm with filler wire
So large raised caterpillar looking beads are no use? Just melted wire and not weld as such ?

 

[SBK]

I suppose it depends on its use,if your looking for full penetration welds on tube with backpurge to eliminate the oxidization then the finished weld should
have a slight raised crown and if your beads are to big it will affect penetration.If your simply sticking two bits of metal together and your just looking for an asthetic weld then its whatever your happy with as long as you have sufficient penetration.
If your beads are wide you should perhaps look at your arc length.
have a look here if you haven't http://www.mig-welding.co.uk/forum/threads/tig-practice.44645/page-2
Ive only been welding just over a year so am no expert but have got tons of scrap practice pieces
I am sure someone with more experience will be along to add some advice shortly.

 

[backpurge]

Many thanks, still just doing random beads on flat plate or tube atm with filler wire
So large raised caterpillar looking beads are no use? Just melted wire and not weld as such ?

Correct, highly raised beads are no use

 

[Wyn F]

many thanks