Vertical weld advice

[monkeymark]

Hi all,

Currently working throught a level 2 course and cant seem to get the hang of vertical welding.

Trying a lap joint (about 3mm plate) and a T-fillet (same plate), but not having much success.

Tried running a bead first, tried without, tried triangle motions, straight runs, but cant seem to get any consistancy.

Any tips at all?

 

[SiPMerlin150]

Hi, firstly, does the metal build up and fall off ? If so it may be a good idea to turn down the wire feed a little. Turn the power down too, as 3mm plate will blow through easily with vertical welds, as you penetrate much further into the metal with this method. Travel speed is critical, as so is the torch angle and weave motion.

Keep the torch 90 degrees to the work, with a 10 -15 degree tilt backward so you push the weld upwards. With small lap joints only weave as wide as the area to be welded so one edge to the other, only pausing for a moment on each edge, then quickly whip over the middle to the other edge. concentrate on the corners, and the middle will take care of itself.

Plenty of practise! You can run vertical down, this is easier, neater and quicker, but doesn't create the best penetration.