Welding Guide

Master the fundamentals of welding with our comprehensive techniques and tips guide.

Welding Techniques

MIG Welding

Metal Inert Gas welding is the most beginner-friendly technique. Uses a continuous wire electrode and shielding gas.

Best For:

  • Steel and stainless steel
  • Thin to medium thickness metals
  • Indoor projects
  • Quick, clean welds

Settings:

Voltage: 18-22V Wire Speed: 150-300 IPM Gas: 75% Ar / 25% CO2

TIG Welding

Tungsten Inert Gas welding offers precision and quality. Uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode.

Best For:

  • Aluminum and stainless steel
  • Thin materials
  • Aesthetic welds
  • Precision work

Settings:

Amps: 80-150A Gas: 100% Argon Balance: 70-80%

Stick Welding (SMAW)

Shielded Metal Arc Welding is versatile and works outdoors. Uses consumable flux-coated electrodes.

Best For:

  • Outdoor and field work
  • Rusty or dirty metals
  • Thick materials
  • Windy conditions

Settings:

Amps: 100-180A Electrode: 6011/7018 DC+ or AC

Flux-Core (FCAW)

Flux-Core Arc Welding uses tubular wire with flux. Great penetration and works on thick metals.

Best For:

  • Heavy structural steel
  • Thick plate welding
  • Outdoor fabrication
  • Deep penetration needs

Settings:

Voltage: 20-25V Wire Speed: 200-350 IPM Shielding: Self-guarded

Basic Techniques

Push vs. Pull

The angle of your torch affects weld penetration and appearance. Push technique provides better visibility, while pull technique offers deeper penetration.

Push
Pull

Travel Speed

Too fast creates a thin, weak weld. Too slow creates excessive heat and burn-through. Maintain consistent speed for uniform bead appearance.

Optimal

Electrode Angle

For flat position, maintain 15-20 degrees from vertical. Adjust angle based on joint type and material thickness.

15-20°
from vertical

Common Joint Types

┌─┐

Butt Joint

Two pieces butted together edge-to-edge

├┤

T-Joint

One piece perpendicular to another

L

Lap Joint

Overlapping pieces at 90 degrees

⊔

Corner Joint

Two pieces forming an L-shape

Common Problems & Solutions

Problem Cause Solution
Porosity (pitting) Contamination, moisture, inadequate gas coverage Clean base metal, check gas flow, increase gas coverage
Incomplete Fusion Low heat, wrong angle, travel too fast Increase voltage/wire speed, adjust angle, slow down
Burn-through Excessive heat, thin material Reduce settings, increase travel speed, use backing bar
Excessive Spatter Voltage too high, contaminated wire/metal Lower voltage, clean wire and base metal
Uneven Bead Inconsistent travel speed, torch wobble Practice consistent movement, use two-hand technique