How to Make an ARC Weld Bead

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By thewisestarfish
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Arc Weld

This article will show you how to create both an aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound arc weld bead.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Welding Machine or (power Supply)
Welding Leads
Rod Holder
Electrode
Ground Clamp
Safety gear (minimum- welding hood, welding gloves, and leather jacket, work boots)

Step 1

Welding Electrodes

First you must decide on an electrode and welding amperage setting to weld the project with. A good general purpose electrode is an E6013, but the best electrode is based on the grade, thickness, and the welding gap of the steel. After you choose the proper electrode you can then set the amperage on the welding machine, a good way to determine this is to match the measurement (in decimals) of the core of the electrode (without the shielding) to the amperage on the machine. example: a 3/16" electrode would be .1875 and thus you start the amperage at 187.5. This is a good place to start but in order to get the best results you must fine tune this setting while practicing on a scrap piece of the same size steel.
Step 2

Proper welding stance

After you get the welder set and the ground clap attached to your steel you are ready to start welding. Ultimately the best position to weld in is the most comfortable and controlled stance thus sitting in a chair, and working on a stable table is strongly recommended. Hold the electrode holder in your dominant hand and strike the arc in a pulling fashion moving in the opposite direction. Strike the arc like your striking a match and start just ahead of the weld then go back, thus melting in the inconsistent starting portion of your weld. Remember that the strongest and best looking weld is the one most consistent so move the electrode in a robotic fashion. To accomplish this you must focus on the (melting point) or tip of the electrode and make sure you are moving at a slow but steady speed until you reach the end of the material.
Step 3

Bad Weld

After you are finished with the weld check if there is any small pinholes or undercutting in the weld (like the picture), because any perforations or craters can imped on the structural integrity of the weld. if you have pinholes you need to grind the weld and weld that spot again.
Step 4

Good Weld

After you are done inspecting the weld chip off any slag or spatter that has built up around the weld, and you should have two pieces of steel joined by a weld that is as strong or stronger than the material itself.