State test, I need to improve.

admin

Hey guysThe company I work for wants to certify a few welders on structural steel, the State test requires welding two 6” x 3” x 1” length wise beveled at 22.5◦ on to a 3/8” back plate, ¼” root which must be weaved up hill.  There are three positions, uphill, flat, and overhead all 1/8”, 7018 rod. Here’s my challenge, I haven’t welded seriously for more than 25 years, however as a boiler operator I have a chance to be around pro welders, and so now and then I grab the gear and burn some rods on different metal/pipe. I don't plan on becoming a welder, but I figured if the my company is willing to pay for the test, I'll give it a shot.I’ve tried welding the mentioned pieces on all positions without any problem but I need to improve on my cap bead, which on this case is about one inch wide and it must be a single bead. Any tips you guys can provide are very much appreciated. Thanks Joe
Reply:if you are welding around pros, ask them to run one and watch them, or ask them to watch you.  I always watch people weld if they will let me.  First hand expeience is the best.Victor OXY setupMiller Thunderbolt XL AC/DCLooking for a Miller Mig