It’s easy to overlook the role MIG welding gas plays in creating a solid weld. With auto-feeding filler wire and shielding gas, MIG welders are designed to make clean and reliable welds with the pull of the trigger. When learning to weld, I rarely thought about shielding gas. That is, until the first time I … Read More
Guide to Welding Joint Types and Parts For welders first getting a handle on weld joint design—how pieces of metal are put together or aligned with each other for welding—it’s important to address welded joint concepts separately from the weld. This article will get you up to speed on the main welding joint types and … Read More
Ever wonder why some welders prefer MIG welding with 100% CO2 shielding gas instead of using a blend of argon and CO2 that’s designed for MIG? Used to shield the weld from contamination, CO2 is plain-old carbon dioxide. It’s the same stuff used to extinguish fires, carbonate your beer and soda, and keep them cold. … Read More
Do you have trouble finding flux core aluminum welding wire? You’re not alone. There’s plenty of confusion on this topic and even some deception. Also referred to as gasless aluminum welding wire, it sounds like a suitable option for a minor welding job. And one that can save you hundreds on MIG welding gas and … Read More
Need to know what size wire for welder extension cord safety and performance? There’s no doubt that a lightweight, undersized cord can derail your welding project. With long runs, extra resistance can lead to cord-melting heat, shorts, and even fire. At a minimum, you can expect the voltage to drop, causing poor weld performance and … Read More
With threaded connections and a choice of sizes, it’s easy to create projects from the black pipe and fittings found at home improvement stores or in scrap metal piles. But can you weld black iron pipe? Its unique feel and appearance add a great vintage/industrial look to any plans—but do you have any idea what … Read More
I’m going to give you some common (and not so common) ideas about where to find scrap metal for welding projects. When going to these places, make sure to always be honest with the owner. Let them know that you’re looking for scrap metal so you can work on your next welding project, (this will … Read More
Build a Career as a Professional Welder Sixteen hundred years later, our progress beyond the ancient forge-welding process is evident. Anywhere you look there are bridges, skyscrapers, airplanes, and even cell phones, all thanks to welding. As the American Welding Society states: “Welding is the secret ingredient that keeps today’s world together. If so, then … Read More
How many innovative product designs can you name that have lasted half of a century? In 1969, Tweco Products, Inc. (formerly Townsend Welding Equipment Company) introduced a new MIG assembly design. Tweco’s invention used a single cable to transfer gas, welding wire, and electrical power to the MIG gun. The MIG gun was also a … Read More
Hands-down, my auto-darkening helmet is my favorite piece of welding safety equipment. I appreciate the technology that not only makes a product safer but more comfortable and enjoyable to use. Adjustable auto-darkening welding helmets protect your eyes from radiation and bright welding arcs with lens coatings and electronic shades from DIN 3 to a super dark DIN … Read More