Beginner Tips and Tricks
Practical advice to help welders improve skills and work smarter.
Preparing a Tungsten Electrode
Make sure to correctly grind the tungsten electrode prior to TIG welding. Many beginners fail to do this and have to accept disappointing results. Grind the tungsten electrode length-wise and as evenly as possible. The shape of the tungsten electrode tip is an important part of TIG welding, and the proper preparation of the electrode will make a world of difference in your welds.
Storing Your MIG Nozzle
Rather than buy a holder for storing a MIG nozzle/gun on the table, you can weld a piece of pipe to a scrap piece of steel at a 45-degree angle. In a short amount of time, you'll have a gun holder.
Utilize a Backing Plate
When welding thin-gauge material, or when there is a gap or seam that needs to be filled, try using a backing plate. When welding stainless steel panels with a gap in the corner, use an aluminum block (scrap, about one-half-inch thick) and clamp it into the corner of your seam. This will help prevent your material from getting eaten away or melting back.
6010 For Tack Welds
Tack weld with 6010 filler metal, if permissible, instead of 7018, on mild steel, even if your final weld is done with 7018. It’s easier to restrike (start) the electrode, and you’ll have a smaller, deep penetrating tack, which is easier to weld over and reduces distortion during fit up.
Keep Your Shop Organized
Organize your metal stock. A compact, high-density storage system for materials, especially the longer pieces, will save money and increase productivity. My wall-mounted rack, built with angle iron and pipe, stores hundreds of pounds of angle, tubing and bar stock in a space only 8 inches deep. To quickly access any piece or check on inventory, keep the stock sorted by type.
Be Proficient With Both Hands
Teach yourself to weld with your off hand. Then teach yourself to feed the wire and the torch with either hand. This will make you a better-than-average welder and put your services in a class above the average welder.