Welding legs straight?

[ClickClickBoom]

I've welded together a couple of tables, and the legs end up being skewed - What's the secret?

I'm using the magnet 90 degree angle brackets, but they are the smaller one's Maybe larger one's would help?


Any other tips/ tricks/ videos for keeping things straight/ level - I'm new to this whole fabrication business.

 

[Chuck McB]

You need a jig to help hold them in place

 

[tpierce]

Weld sequence is as important as fit-up and clamping. If you don't pay attention to weld sequence you will always have trouble keeping things straight.
Try to weld opposite joints one after the other to minimize pulling and shrinking as your welds cool.

 

[alan camby]

Only tack the legs until you can confirm they are strait.
I don't like the magnets. Use scrap angle steel and brace at a angle back to the table.

I start out by holding the leg a square as possible using a square. Put one small tack on the leg.
Use the scrap angle to hold the leg in perfect alignment.

Sorry about the poor response, i am on a smart phone

 

[Heavy Metal Doctor]

When building tables where the leg will get welded at the corner of 2 other pieces, you will put a lot more heat on those 2 sides, which pulls the legs out of position. It takes practice, but experience has taught me to judge how much this will pull the legs off of being straight / plumb. I just account for it ahead of time and tack them up with the legs angled in the opposite direction.

 

[t100]

tack on opposite sides and check it before you start welding.

no, you can't trust magnets. angle plates are what you need. gusset straps may help.

 

[uhcrandy]

Try using a framing square to check angles.

 

[ClickClickBoom]

Like most things, I guess it just takes practice.

 

[Dustin Echoes]

Use a series of tacks, on either side of the weld. A well made tack will hold things square until the bead is finished. Lots of examples on youtube. Good luck!