Stick weld test help for job

admin

I'm not really a stick welder and want to take the 3 prong test. Vert, horiz. and overhead. Are they that hard? I've welded mainly fluxcore for the past 8 years and have had stick problems in the past. Any advice?
Reply:More specific info on the test to take for the job. I can handle the FCAW and GMAW and the Horizontal and should beable to handle the Vert. Not sure on OH weld.Welding Qualification:All Welders will be required to pass all position, Multi-pass Butt Weld, Welder Qualification Tests prior to reporting for the first day of productive work. These tests will be in accordance with MIL-STD-248D Paragraph 5.3.3 and the following:A.   All position (Horizontal (2G), Verticla (3G), and Overhead (4G)) SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding) process.B.   All position (Horizontal (2G), Vertical (3G), and Overhead (4G)) FCAW (Flux Core Arc Welding) process.C.   Horizontal (2G) position GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding) process.D.   Air Carbon Arc Gouging proficiency test.The Welding School will administer the following tests:1.       All Welding Qualification Tests in "A" (6 hours), "3" (12 hours), "C" (4 hours) above.2.       Visual Inspection of Welds Level I (4 hours).3.       Welders Vision Test (5 minutes).4.   Air Carbon Arc Gouging Proficiency Test (1 hour).
Reply:You will want to know exactly which rod to practice with before the test. Sorry, I am not familiar with, "MIL-STD-248D Paragraph 5.3.3".City of L.A. Structural; Manual & Semi-Automatic;"Surely there is a mine for silver, and a place where gold is refined. Iron is taken from the earth, and copper is smelted from ore."Job 28:1,2Lincoln, Miller, Victor & ISV BibleDanny
Reply:Gramo,I can only suggest that you practice SMAW in all positions if possible. I don't have Mil-STD but the test probably consist of two plates with a combined 45 degree bevel and a backing bar for the root pass. 1/4" gap. These test aren't easy to pass if you are not proficient with the process. Root pass must have fusion to backing bar and both plates. All slag must be removed after every bead or layer. Undercut should be minimal or nonexistant. Avoid porosity and remove it if you get any. Fill coupons approx 1/16" to 1/8" max above flush. No arc marks outside of beveled area.Your current should be moderately hot but not excessively hot. Welding too cold is a mistake.I've had guys that say they were certified and had welded for years mainly GMAW really make a mess of the groove test in the vert and OH positions. If possible practice groove test and when you have problems the folks on the forum will help with any specific problems.
Reply:thanks fellow's. I'll keep you up to date Mil-STD is Military Standard. The test is for Northrop Grumman in VA. ANYONE who goes to work for them must pass these test.