First time findings

[inchpincher]

So I eventually got round to trying out my new toys. Clarke 160T, Argonshield light & an auto darkening helmet (ta Mr Weldequip). That's a privaliged setup compared to someone learning stick welding with a hand held mask! I was thinking of a coarse in the new year but I may just persevere in the garage, what with all the advice on here and t'internet.
Anyway here's some flicks of beads on some sheet experimenting with speeds, power, gas & technique. Then a butt-weld. I realise the trick is in getting a feel for the thickness of the metal and your machine. Lots to look and listen for at once! The tutorials are invaluble BTW. Not getting too confident though, spoke to a friend to who said anyone can weld on a bench, try it on your **** under a car! Point taken.
Bit more practice then the Lambretta gets it!
All comments welcome....
Ben

 

[inchpincher]

One other thing that really surprised me was the amount of distortion due to heat. This sheet was 16ish gauge (blagged from a fabricator cause he used to have a scooter in the 80's) and the panels in the scoot are 22 if not thinner. Serious patience required!

 

[Drains]

Leave a gap on your butt welds. That's what is meant by "preparation" On thicker material, you'd vee, and leave a gap.

Without a gap, you need a higher voltage to get proper penetration. More volts means more heat, means more distortion. Put a gap in and you can keep the volts/heat/distortion down. Try different gaps. Never more than 3mm on the thickest material, never less than 1mm on the thinnest (ish)

But your welds look fine, on the whole. I think it's pretty obvious which ones stand too high, and which look good.

 

[inchpincher]

Thanks simon, good advice.

 

[Drains]

Thanks simon, good advice.