Stick Welding Basics for Beginners: How to Stick Weld

Summary

In this welding tutorial, Tim explains key techniques for stick welding, focusing on three critical factors: arc length, angles, and movement. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a tight arc to ensure weld quality, using proper work and travel angles for different joint types, and employing smooth, consistent movements when welding with different rods (7018, 6011, and 6013). The video demonstrates various rods' behaviors, showing how each weld type impacts the final result. Tim offers practical advice and encourages viewers to practice these techniques for improved welding skills.

Takeaways

• 😀 Practice makes perfect: Focus on key aspects such as arc length, angles, and movement to become a proficient welder.
• 😀 Keep the arc tight: A tight arc is essential, and it's important to avoid letting the electrode stick to the workpiece.
• 😀 Dry runs help: Perform dry runs to practice movement and ensure you can maintain a proper arc length while navigating tricky spots.
• 😀 Angle your electrode properly: For a fillet weld, keep your electrode at a 45-degree work angle, adjusting based on specific joint configurations.
• 😀 Maintain the right travel angle: The electrode should drag slightly at a 10-degree angle as you move along the weld joint.
• 😀 Smooth movement is key: Maintain a consistent travel speed and smooth motion, especially with rods like 6013 or 7018.
• 😀 Stringer beads and whip-and-pause: Use stringer beads for straight lines, or the whip-and-pause technique to create ripples in the weld pool.
• 😀 Rod behavior varies: 7018 runs smoothly, 6011 has deep penetration but causes more spatter, and 6013 is easy to clean up and runs consistently.
• 😀 Proper slag cleaning is important: Some rods, like 6011, produce more crusty slag, requiring extra effort to clean off using tools like a chipping hammer.
• 😀 Understanding the right settings: Make sure to use the appropriate settings for different rods, such as 115 amps for 1/8-inch 7018.
• 😀 Always adapt to the rod: Different rods may require slightly different techniques—be adaptable to achieve the best results.

Q & A

What is the importance of arc length in stick welding?

Arc length is crucial because a tight arc ensures better weld quality. A short arc prevents the electrode from sticking and helps maintain the proper heat, while a long arc can lead to poor welds with inconsistent penetration.

How can you maintain a proper arc length while welding?

To maintain the right arc length, practice dry runs before welding to ensure you can move the electrode smoothly and avoid burning it back. The arc should be short enough to feel tight but not long enough to affect the weld's quality.

Why is it important to hold a tight arc while welding?

Holding a tight arc ensures better heat control and a more stable weld pool. If the arc is too long, it can result in poor fusion and weak joints.

What are the two key angles to focus on in stick welding?

The two key angles are the **work angle**, which is the angle of the electrode relative to the workpiece (usually around 45 degrees), and the **travel angle**, which refers to the angle of the electrode as you move along the weld (about a 10-degree backward drag).

How do you position the electrode when performing a vertical weld?

For vertical welds, the electrode should be positioned straight up and down, perpendicular to the direction you're moving, ensuring consistent weld quality.

What is the travel angle, and why is it important?

The travel angle is the angle of the electrode relative to the direction of movement during welding. A 10-degree backward drag is ideal as it helps maintain consistent heat and control over the weld pool.

What type of movement is recommended when using 7018 rods in stick welding?

When using 7018 rods, a steady, smooth movement with consistent travel speed is key to achieving a good weld. This will produce a clean and even bead with minimal spatter.

What is the difference between the stringer bead and the whip-and-pause technique?

The **stringer bead** involves a straight, steady movement along the weld, while the **whip-and-pause technique** involves moving the electrode forward slightly, then pulling it back into the puddle before moving forward again. The whip-and-pause technique creates ripples in the weld and allows the puddle to cool.

How do different electrodes behave during welding?

Electrode behavior varies: 7018 runs smoothly with easy slag removal, 6011 has deep penetration and an aggressive arc with more spatter and challenging slag removal, and 6013 runs consistently with less spatter and easier slag cleaning.

What are the best practices for cleaning slag after welding?

Slag can be cleaned using a chipping hammer, with 7018 slag being easier to remove, while 6011 and 6013 may require more effort. Brushing may also be needed for tougher slag, especially with the 6011 electrode.