The Case for Metal-Cored Wire

The Case for Metal-Cored Wire

When Metal-Cored Wire Is A Better Choice Than Solid Wire Metal-Cored wire, like sold wire, is an AWS A5.18 mild steel GMAW or MIG wire. However, this wire is not a solid wire but rather a composite, tubular wire filled with iron powder and, sometimes, various alloys...
Welding Variables and Their Effects

Welding Variables and Their Effects

Welding Variables: Talking Voltage and Amperage There are so many welding variables that influence a weld’s quality; the variables are amps, volts, travel speed, filler metal, shielding gas, base material, etc. But have you ever stopped to think about how they...
Over-Welding: What It Costs

Over-Welding: What It Costs

Over-welding: Almost Everybody Does it to No Benefit Countless times throughout my career I have heard people say “I know the print calls for a 3/16” fillet, but I know it is not enough.” As a result, the welds end up being a 5/16” fillet. And while there are times...

Welding Circuit Hot Spots Are Bad

Eliminate High Resistance Areas Poor arc quality can be caused by a high resistance. This produces a “hot spot” due to undersized welding cables or even correctly sized cables that have cuts or splices. When you have a poor arc, double check that the weld cables are...
Common Wire Feeding Problems, Simple Solutions

Common Wire Feeding Problems, Simple Solutions

Simple Solutions Oftentimes, little, painfully annoying welding problems are caused by commonly overlooked culprits. Throughout my career, I have observed frustrated welders that are achieving substandard welds. Many of the substandard welds are believed to be a...