First welds ever

[yfz 450]

Just wondering how these welds look. I just got a hobart handler 140 and love it just not exactly sure what to look for in a good weld. Have been doing a lot of research though. This is the first time I have ever touched a welder of any kind.

 

[great white tj]

You have a very good 110 volt welder. It looks like you are useing Flux Core wire, and that is a good start. Just keep putting down beads and you will have some great welds, when you feel good with your work. Move over to gas (Mig) ..... you -tube is great place for info as well as here . Go over to welding web.com and hang out.. use the info on the in side of your welder door for a good start for set up for diff ga. metal

 

[Crow Horse]

Do yourself a favor and look into an adult ed or BOCES welding course. It will speed up the learning curve big time.......

 

[tarbellb]

Good start. But try cleaning your materials before welding, brush, sand, or even just some denatured alcohol before starting.

Its also easier to start with thick material, and doing 90 degree joints as well. Position the piece so that your pool wants to flow downhill.

 

[Crow Horse]

Good start. But try cleaning your materials before welding, brush, sand, or even just some denatured alcohol before starting.

Its also easier to start with thick material, and doing 90 degree joints as well. Position the piece so that your pool wants to flow downhill.

Do NOT use Brakeclean or similar products to clean your material. Google Phosgene gas. It is extremely toxic......

 

[zkling]

Off to a great start. Better than I've seen from some "pros". Keep up the practice.

 

[MrJason]

Here's the reason not to use brake cleaner for weld prep.

http://www.popsci.com/diy/article/2009-12/dont-get-careless

Flux core is great to learn with, and before you know it , you'll want to move to MIG.

Make sure your power source is steady and constant.

Material prep is more important than form at this stage.

Do your homework, here's a few resources that'll give you perspective.

http://m.agriculture.com/machinery/tools/welding/10-tips-that-c-advce-your-welding_245-ar29782?print

http://www.millerwelds.com/resources/articles/flux_cored_welding_basics_mild_steel/

And sign up at WeldingWeb online forum.

Happy trails!