Proper length of welds

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I am using an ESAB migmaster 250 to weld a 6x6x1\4" post to a 12x12x3\4 plate. In the past I have welded 1 inch on either side of all 4 corners, one inch in the middle of all four sides, then filled in the gaps. Is this correct or can I weld longer beads? I also will be welding 12" pieces of 3x5x1\4 angle iron vertical to an I Beam W12x30 (1\4" web) How long of beads should I run without a break to prevent warping.Thanks
Reply:i usually tack the 4 corners..start with the first tack and run a bead over the whole thing without stopping..just run over the tacks and continue until one lap is done and your the winner ...zap!
Reply:A 3/4 base plate would require preheating in some structural shops.  Others would not bother.  Certainly just tack weld it in three or four places then run around continuously.  Your tack welds should be small so that you can run over them and re-melt them.  They should be at least one inch long.  A huge tack that is a quarter inch long is not good practice.   I am not sure how you are attaching those angle iron pieces.  You will not distort the beam if they are simply being welded on the end.  if you are welding them at right angles to the beam sticking out from the web distortion will be minimal.  It is when you are welding on the flanges that you get the unpleasant surprises.