Ox-Acetylene Sheet Metal Welding

admin

What is the best technique for joining long lengths of 24 gauge sheet metal with O/A?The project outlined using a MIG welder, by doing what the author called button hole welds. He drilled holes on one piece and then over lapped the second piece, and I assume migged inside the hole. Does this technique work similarly using OA with or without a filler?Is there a parallel to a 'spot weld' that can be done with O/A?
Reply:You can plug weld with OA just fine.  The problem with OA is that it takes longer to melt the metal - more heat input leads to more distortion.  The key is to use the biggest torch you can without punching holes - heat it fast and get out.  Use thin filler rods and feed them fast - you don't want to waste time melting the filler when the sheet metal is ready to go.Hobart LX235Victor 250 Oxy-Acetylene Rig (welding and cutting)Bobcat 773F-350, 1999, 4x4, 16' 10K# trailerOutdoor Wood Burner - 10 cords/year
Reply:Plug weld?
Reply:I might have my terminology off, but when I say plug weld I mean a case where you drill a hole in the sheet metal and weld it to a frame member beneath that hole, joining the edges of the hole to the frame member.  You can fill the hole with filler metal at that point and finish it even with the surface.Hobart LX235Victor 250 Oxy-Acetylene Rig (welding and cutting)Bobcat 773F-350, 1999, 4x4, 16' 10K# trailerOutdoor Wood Burner - 10 cords/year
Reply:Originally Posted by AbsintheIs there a parallel to a 'spot weld' that can be done with O/A?
Reply:As I am kind of getting started, could you please give me a description of the technique to follow? Size of the hole, size of the rod, style of flame and so forth? I will certainly experiment on a few test pieces first but knowing what I am trying to do would save me a lot of trial and error. Sorry to ask such a n00b question.
Reply:Originally Posted by AbsintheAs I am kind of getting started, could you please give me a description of the technique to follow? Size of the hole, size of the rod, style of flame and so forth? I will certainly experiment on a few test pieces first but knowing what I am trying to do would save me a lot of trial and error. Sorry to ask such a n00b question.
Reply:Is it possible to simply clamp two pieces tightly and weld "through" it like a spot weld? Is that such a thing?
Reply:Originally Posted by AbsintheIs it possible to simply clamp two pieces tightly and weld "through" it like a spot weld? Is that such a thing?