"SteveB" <pittmanpirate@henderson.com> wrote in message
news:ho2bd5-iu91.ln1@news.infowest.com...
"Ted" <miamitedNOSPAM@bellsouth.net> wrote in message
news:T8AMj.23365$%15.20464@bignews7.bellsouth.net...
I have decided that I want to learn how to mig weld. I will be using flux
core wire on a Lincoln weldpack 100 machine. I have used a o-a torch
numerous times, but this is different. I am planning on a few projects
that will be built using bed frames.
Sometimes people around here give away their wrought iron security
gates. Would these be good to practice on?
I have searched and did not find any good instructional websites other
than the manufacturer's and some of them are better than others and
usually just show mig with gas.
Thanks
Ted
Thin metal and FCAW are not a good recipe. Usually shielding gas is used
for thin metal on ornamental metal.
Are you talking about true "wrought iron" or just hollow tube steel
ornamental metal? When you refer to "bed frames", are you referring to
plain steel angle bed frames, or the cast iron of the last century style
conical pin joints?
Huge difference in welding processes and results.
Does your machine have the capability of being converted to a shielded
gas MIG?
FCAW is not technically a GMAW rig, although it looks like a MIG.
Short explanation: MIG = Metal Inert Gas
GMAW = Gas Metal Arc Welding
FCAW = Flux Core Arc Welding
MIG and GMAW are where a shielding gas is used outside of the filler wire
to isolate the filler wire from the ambient air so that a protected area
is formed where the molten crucible of the arc can join metal. FCAW has
a shielding powder inside the wire.
If you are really interested in MIG (GMAW), you may have to purchase a
real one with a gas solenoid, gas bottle, and the whole nine yards. They
are sweet in how they work and what they can do. Cheap they are not,
unless you choose to buy a cheap one, in which case I hope you have a
boat because cheap ones usually end up as boat anchors. If you do choose
to buy a MIG, get a Miller or Lincoln, and you will never regret it.
Please clarify some of your statements, and we can give you a little
clearer answers.
12 step welding meetings every Wednesday.
Steve
FCAW is my only choice. I have to work outside, thus gas is not an option.
By bed frame, I am talking about the angle iron modern style.
I am referring to the metal security bars that people put on the outside
of their house over their windows and doors.
I would not destroy the old antique metals by practicing on them.
Where are the Wednesday meetings?
