Welding thin metal with an electrode - a practical guide
Welding thin metal always presents a certain difficulty for welders, especially when it comes to metals 1 mm thick. To successfully perform such work, it is necessary to follow several important rules that will help ensure a high-quality result without burns and defects.
Selecting an electrode and setting the current
One of the key aspects is the correct choice of electrode and setting the welding current. We recommend using an electrode with a diameter of 2 mm, which helps to achieve the desired level of penetration without the risk of burn-through. An important point is the current adjustment - in this case, the value of 60 amperes was chosen. However, the author emphasizes that the current is selected “by feel,” since the readings on the welding machine may not always correspond to reality.
Welding technique
Welding thin metal requires precise control over the process. To avoid gaps in the weld, welding should be done with short breaks. This allows you to control the weld pool and avoid overheating of the metal. If the arc is broken at the wrong time, the metal can harden, making further welding difficult and possibly causing slag to form. In such cases, it is recommended to stop the process, clean the slag and continue welding.
We note that when welding it is necessary to monitor the condition of the weld pool. If the metal does not flow or overheat, you can continue the process. The main thing is to break the arc in time and return to the point of the previous break to ensure continuity of the weld.
Welding thin metal with thicker metal
Welding thin metal with thicker one also has its own nuances. A common mistake that novice welders make is setting the current too high when focusing on thicker metal. This leads to burns through the thin plate. It is important to set the current strength suitable specifically for thin metal and control melting.
When welding metalsof different thicknesses, it is recommended to stay longer on a thicker plate, gradually moving the molten metal to a thin one. This helps to avoid burn-throughs and ensure a high-quality seam.
Conclusion
Welding thin metal is a process that requires attention and experience. The correct choice of electrode, current setting and intermittent welding technique will help achieve a high-quality result. By following these recommendations, you will be able to effectively cope with the task of welding thin metals, avoiding common mistakes.
The author promises to demonstrate detailed examples and more complex welding techniques in future videos, which will deepen your knowledge and skills in this area.