Newb Question from the Fetal State

admin

Having yet attempted to tack a single weld, I'm trying to first determine as clearly as possible, what exactly is going on in the arc zone, and what I need to do that unfortunately is getting obscured in virtually every tutorial I've come across. In flux wire welding, does the electrode actually make contact with the workpiece, or does it just get very close before it arcs?  Does the wire ever push directly into the weld puddle, or just drip into it? How could you ever "push" a weld puddle otherwise? If the electrode is touching anything, how can there also be an arc? I would certainly appreciate any information, or links provided to sources that might offer some illumination on this, that is, without the luminous glare.
Reply:Welcome, KnKGood questions.Basically, the current carrying capacity of the electrode is exceeded and therefore the wire heats and burns off, producing an electric arc. The electrode wire must first contact the work to initiate burn-off and an arc, once started, a continuously carried arc is used to deposit weld filler. As setting adjustments are increased, and the arc becomes "hotter," the filler metal's  deposit (transfer) characteristics progress through three self-descriptive transfer modes. Starting  with lower currents and short-circuit transfer, then mid range of globular-transfer, and finally to spray-transfer mode using the highest currents. This is just a very basic summary. Researching the transfer terms should lead you to more details.Best luck with your new venture.Last edited by denrep; 04-03-2011 at 08:29 AM.
Reply:Thanks denrep for explaining how things get started. I'll see what I can find out with those terms. Just to be a bit more clear, does the operator need to continually adust the power settings from task to task, or are those modes more relevant to the workpiece heating up, and the changes that occur, such as in resistance, as a result?Last edited by KutNKornerz; 04-03-2011 at 10:47 AM.
Reply:Hey, give these freebies a try. http://www.esabna.com/EUWeb/MIG_handbook/592mig1_1.htmhttp://www.esabna.com/EUWeb/AWTC/Lesson7_1.htmOn the 2nd link notice the TAB on the left for more info yet."The things that will destroy America are prosperity at any price, peace at any price, safety first instead of duty first, the love of soft living and the get rich quick theory of life." -Theodore Roosevelt
Reply:Changes are made by the operator dependent on the position the piece is in, the type of metal being welded, the thickness of the metal, the gap between the metal, the type of beveling used on the metal.  If you had a 50ft length of half inch mild carbon steel in a flat or horizontal position then you would weld it at a higher temperature than if you were welding it in a vertical up position because as your pushing the weld upward your also pushing heat up.  To "push" a weld means that you are aim your electrode in the direction that the weld is going to go or start its journey along the molten steel road.  There is also drag which is aiming it in the direction it will have started so that it is looking at where it had been and theres straight on which directs the electrode straight down to focus directly where it is meeting the material at, its kind of like past present and future if you think about it.
Reply:Originally Posted by KutNKornerzHaving yet attempted to tack a single weld, I'm trying to first determine as clearly as possible, what exactly is going on in the arc zone, and what I need to do that unfortunately is getting obscured in virtually every tutorial I've come across.
Reply:Thanks for all the very informative posts.  I regret having never taken metal shop in HS, as I'm sure it would have left me with at least some background experience. So it makes sense Pro-Fab to look into possible workshops, or instuctional courses that may be available in my area. Until then, the links that Sandy posted appear extensive, and a great place to start. As for "recognizing poor advise" it may take some time, but I have a strong suspicion, Big65mopar is a reliable source.  Thanks again!Last edited by KutNKornerz; 04-04-2011 at 08:37 AM.
Reply:I see out of work weldors advertise on CL all the time for "welding lessons". Check there, but remember you don't know what their experience level actually is. Maybe put an ad in there yourself asking. You might just get a nice old timer that will help you.Also check out a local welding/fab shop. They just might let you watch.Where is the "Fetal State"?"Where's Stick man????????" - 7A749"SHHHHHH!! I sent him over to snag that MIC-4 while tbone wasn't looking!" - duaneb55"I have bought a few of Tbone's things unlike Stick-Man who helps himself" - TozziWelding"Stick-man"
Reply:Good idea Stick-man!I was thinking about my brother, who runs the carpentry shop for the City of LA Parks and Rec. His shop apparently shares a massive lot with all the other trades, including the Welders from what I understand. He's invited me to stop by on numerous occasions to see his office, and how the place operates. Perhaps I should take him up on it, and while i'm there, see if he can pull some strings for a visit to one of the neighboring facilities. Hehe..As for the "fetal state", lets just say  In my case, the default classification assigned as my rank/title over just beneath my usernname, is actually more accurate than humorous.