Unknown alloy ???

admin

I have an small 18ga alloy piece I need to weld (see photos). The manufacturer will only state it is an alloy (ferrous) and that is heat treated. I have found it is soft enough to be cut with a file and or hacksaw. It is brittle as it breaks when bent to about 90 degrees.Since the area I need to weld is only .060 thick by 1/4 inch wide, any suggestions as to welding this piece would be appreciated. I need to lengthen the piece by 1/8 inch. I have a small piece of the same alloy that I was going to use as the filler to lengthen the piece by the 1/8 inch, and weld the pieces together to lengthen it (red line indicates area where I will cut the piece to insert filler).  There will be no side pressure on the .060 flat side on the finished part and minimal pressure from front to back on the piece.I had read somewhere that since the composition is unknown, that heating the parts to 300 to 400 degrees while welding should help. This is difficult as it is so thin that it would cool very fast. Was planning on mig stitch weld. Not sure of wire to use, etc. Also have oxy/acet tanks. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. ThanksBobside viewtop viewLast edited by robkarrob; 10-06-2012 at 11:20 AM.
Reply:Attempt to use the lowest heat possible in order to get the job done.SolderSilver solderBrassTIGMIGStick.In that order.Keep the surrounding metal as cool as possible.Lincoln SA200's... at least 15 - 20. They come and go. Growing partial to the "Short Hoods" in my old age. Last count on Short Hoods was 13 in possession.
Reply:This is TIG territory.....zap!I am not completely insane..Some parts are missing Professional Driver on a closed course....Do not attempt.Just because I'm a  dumbass don't mean that you can be too.So DON'T try any of this **** l do at home.
Reply:Looks like steel to me. The "manufacturer" probably dosent know anyway. Tig it and if you are really woried about it being an "Alloy" use some stainless filler.Lincolin Power Wave 450, Lincoln Powermig 255, Lincoln Pro Mig 140, Lincoln Squarewave Tig 275, Miller Big 40 G(with Hobart Hefty suitcase), Thermal Arc 95S and Esab PCM875 in an already full machine shop.