Mixing metals

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This is probably a novice question, but what are the rules about mixing different metal grades and types when welding?for example, mixing a hot rolled steel with a stainless when joining two pieces.I am a new guy, please don't be to harsh.Welding Equipment so far:First Welder: Blue Hawk Flux-MIG 100 (no tanks, so only Flux for me right now)Second Welder: Miller MillerMatic 211 Auto-Set with MVP
Reply:Originally Posted by amatoolboxThis is probably a novice question, but what are the rules about mixing different metal grades and types when welding?for example, mixing a hot rolled steel with a stainless when joining two pieces.
Reply:Thanks for the input.My main reason for asking was i noticed a lot of frame work done in regular tube steal, then they seem to bolt on a piece of diamond plate instead of welding it down.I am a new guy, please don't be to harsh.Welding Equipment so far:First Welder: Blue Hawk Flux-MIG 100 (no tanks, so only Flux for me right now)Second Welder: Miller MillerMatic 211 Auto-Set with MVP
Reply:You can weld the diamond tread plate to steel framing if you like. Most times it's bolted if there may be a need to remove it later for whatever reason. Just don't try to weld ferrous to non-ferrous metals. Like steel to aluminum, brass, or copper, just won't work. You can weld steel to stainless steel, but you need to use filler that is compatible with the SS.Last edited by Bistineau; 07-23-2014 at 03:32 PM.
Reply:Also, the diamond plate may be aluminum, not stainless.BTW, you can weld steel to copper alloys that do not contain lead or zinc. Silicon bronze or aluminum bronze fillers are usually used for these combinations.JohnA few weldersA lot of hammersA whole lot of C-clamps
Reply:Thanks for the input. Currently i only own a small 110v flux core welder, so it will be a while before i mess with any fancy blends/fillers.I am a new guy, please don't be to harsh.Welding Equipment so far:First Welder: Blue Hawk Flux-MIG 100 (no tanks, so only Flux for me right now)Second Welder: Miller MillerMatic 211 Auto-Set with MVP
Reply:LOL......a 110 flux cored welder....get outa here.Ian.
Reply:Originally Posted by amatoolboxThanks for the input. Currently i only own a small 110v flux core welder, so it will be a while before i mess with any fancy blends/fillers.
Reply:Originally Posted by docweldertoolbox; don't apologize for your 110 mig. mine has gotten me out of lot's of tight spots. not every job calls for the 20 pound sledge.
Reply:Hi, no offence meant, small can be useful....it just limits your job variety and probably cost just as much as a bigger unit....pity about the 110 volt thing.Ian.
Reply:puddytat,  paid $100 for the unit... next cheapest i found was $500 or a harbor freight unit of equal output at $300... My next welder will probably be a Lincoln once i learn a hell of a lot more.I am a new guy, please don't be to harsh.Welding Equipment so far:First Welder: Blue Hawk Flux-MIG 100 (no tanks, so only Flux for me right now)Second Welder: Miller MillerMatic 211 Auto-Set with MVP