Professional Welders

[Cord]

There are a couple of forums that really look down a long nose at the amature welders out there. Personally, I try to not do this because I've been on the other side as a DIYer enough times. That said, I tend to put the pros on a pedestal and expect something approaching perfection from them. Too often I'm disappointed when they fail to reach that level. This would be an example. Made a site visit the other day and thought I'd check in to see how some structural welding was progressing. The project was to weld some stainless 3/8" plate to some 1/4" angle. The location was very tight and cramped and would suck for welding. The job was outside so the process was stick and the welds were vertical up. Tough conditions. but the welder was a certified professional hired from a union shop.

 

[nybirdman]

At one time I was a certified nuclear pipe welder;I don't look down on any-one trying to learn;in fact I used to be an instructor for our apprentice/journeyman local.I also taught in the prison system.
Stainless steel stick is one of the hardest to make look good;the only thing worse is stick aluminum.
Stainless heli-arc is a breeze,mild steel is easy ;again aluminum is not fun.

 

[Tractor Seabee]

In my younger days as a UA union foreman, general foreman, and superintendent that welder would be sent back to the hall to spend some time in the local's training shop practicing. The dispatcher agreed with me that he needed to have his certification pulled till he could re-pass the test. No excuse because it was SS. I have done my share of stick rod SS and carbon steel in hard places. That is just part of the trade.

Ron

 

[Egon]

I would suggest lack of penetration and perhaps some burn thru. Whatever Sheild Arc says will be the answere.

 

[Shield Arc]

Cord you are running waaaaaaaaaay too cold. Turn up the AMPS!
Here is a stainless steel weld on mild steel. See how the weld flows?

 

[dragoneggs]

Yikes, He might as well have used glue!

 

[stuckmotor]

A couple of those look like Bubba's eight dollar an hour welds.

 

[4570Man]

A couple of those look like Bubba's eight dollar an hour welds.

Don't insult Bubba like that!

 

[stuckmotor]

Don't insult Bubba like that!

Oh! :ashamed: Sorry Bubba.

 

[cqaigy2]

For the most part, this is a good place for constructive criticism.