Learning, experience

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I joined the forum in 2011.  I basically have been a lurker since that time, learning as much as I can and practicing.  I have purchased a HF 80 amp inverter arc welder and a northern tool 200c, arc welder.  I am running the 200amp ac welder off a 7000 watt generator since I don't have access to a 240v source.  Over the past two years I have used info from the forum to learn the limitations of this equipment.  Starting with learning to strike an arc, with the 80 amp inverter, I learned that it's capability, at least for my experience, worked best with 1/16 to 5/64 6011, 6013 on no more than 1/8" steel.  I have used both welders to  complete a smoker from 3/16 plate for the fire box and cleaning and repurposing a small barrel type charcoal grill for the cooker attached to the smoker with a 6"x41/2" piece, 1/8" wall, pipe, it works.  Bottom line is I have been able to complete several small projects, and have learned a great deal from welders on the forum, regarding "the puddle", arc control, size and type of rods, and limitations of my equipment.  I need to practice more to better control the arc.  Welding and metal work is a hobby I have taken up and enjoy very much.  I am in the 67 the year of my life and work full time, looking forward to drawing my entitlements that I have paid for for the last 50 years, would like to attend a welding school in my area, Houston, if they allow old farts.  Thanks for all the great information, looking forward to being around for a while..
Reply:It great you stayed with it.  I was in school with a couple guys in their 70s.   They were some of the coolest guys in class.  Try the community college?  Just a thought.“I'm going to do the thing that God put Galen Beasley on this Earth to do:Have Salon quality hair and weld.Nothing like a good cup of coffee and the smell of 6010 burning in the morning. 971-204-3444 cell API ASME Structural NDT and Repair
Reply:Hey thanks, yea I'm looking into several schools in the area.  With the boom in oilfield work going on, there is a real shortage of welders.  Wish I was 30 years younger, would look into a second career.
Reply:Go for it. Never to old to learn or get better at something. I agree with the community college deal. Its usually the same classes and less expensive. And most community colleges are wheelchair accessible!............ ok please don't hurt me. im sorry . I shouldn't have said it. i'll go to my room now and think about what ive done. Keep on Rduff, maybe theres hope for me too.Arcon Workhorse 300MSPowcon 400SMTPowcon SM400 x 2Powcon SM3001968 SA200 Redface1978 SA250 DieselMiller Super 32P FeederPre 1927 American 14" High Duty LatheK&T Milwaukee 2H Horizontal MillBryan