How to Weld a Puddle Joint

MIG welding is also referred to as arc welding. MIG stands for Metal Inert Gas. Puddle joints are used to fuse two pieces of metal together when the side or edge can not be welded. Welding puddle joints requires some basic knowledge about MIG welding.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Drill
• Clamp
• Fill wire
• Shielding glass
• MIG welder
• Gloves

1. Clean the area on the two metals where they will meet. If there is paint or a coating on the metal, remove it. Remove all dust.

2. Drill holes in the metal piece you are welding on. The holes range in size depending on the use of the metal. A common size for these holes is 5/16 inch.

3. Clamp the two pieces together so they do not shift. C-clamps or alligator clamps work for most MIG puddle welds.

4. Pour fill wire or material into the holes. Each hole needs to have enough fill so when it melts, the fill covers the entire hole.

5. Put shielding glass and gloves on. The light from the welder damages your retinas unless you wear protection.

6. Angle the MIG welder at 45-degrees. Weld the metal until the fill wire covers all of the edges. You may need to weld, stop and look and then weld again.

7. Repeat Step 6 for each hole.

Tips & Warnings

• Puddle welds can be cleaned, sanded and painted to look as good as new.
• Wear safety equipment when MIG welding. Shielding glass, leather gloves, leather sleeves and a welding apron are the most important safety equipment.