When did mig wire get so expensive?

[DaveK OR]

I've heard people talk about their wire getting rusty from sitting and other issues. Up here it's not unusual for the garage to get very damp.

I use the smaller 10-12 lb spools in my welder, but have issues with wire rusting if it sets around too long. I solved the problem by getting a 5-gallon sheet-metal tub with a tight fitting metal lid, and store my spools of wire in that. I throw in a couple cubes of camphor, and with the lid closed it keeps all the rust away. Never had a problem since I started doing that, and it's a cheap solution.

Camphor in your toolbox will also keep the rust away there. It's an old-timey solution that still works very well, and isn't very expensive.

 

[STx]

I tried a few 'other' brands but didn't like their performance so I always end up going back to Lincoln.

The L56 wire is decent but, I personally really prefer the Praxair wire. At $1.20/lb it's a really good deal as well if you have one local.

 

[dstig1]

I use the smaller 10-12 lb spools in my welder, but have issues with wire rusting if it sets around too long. I solved the problem by getting a 5-gallon sheet-metal tub with a tight fitting metal lid, and store my spools of wire in that. I throw in a couple cubes of camphor, and with the lid closed it keeps all the rust away. Never had a problem since I started doing that, and it's a cheap solution.

Camphor in your toolbox will also keep the rust away there. It's an old-timey solution that still works very well, and isn't very expensive.

I've looked for camphor on a couple of occasions over the years for this reason, but not recently. Never had any luck. Got a source?

 

[DaveK OR]

You might check Amazon... I got a small jar of camphor cubes for a decent price. Some sort of Indian cultural thing, but still just camphor.

Update... Yes, it's on Amazon, and you can buy a little or a lot.... Check here for an assortment of options.

 

[dstig1]

Thanks - Seems pretty cheap. How much do you need? Does a small tablet go a long way or do you scatter a few around a drawer?

 

[DaveK OR]

In a sealed can, they'll last a very long time. They slowly sublime and coat the metal surfaces, to prevent rust. A half-inch "tablet" ought to last a few months in a tool chest.

 

[California]

Another form of dessicant is sold in RV shops. I think its the same stuff you find packed with a new camera etc. Inexpensive and it might be easier to find.