Whether you’re simply trying to add a new skill to your repertoire or looking to pursue a profession as a welder, you’ve got to make sure to do things right. That means ensuring you get proper guidance and knowledge to perform welding tasks safely and skillfully.
WeldingManiac has plenty welding resources, and you’ll see most of them point towards these two most important elements to ensure welding success. Without them, most won’t progress beyond the novice stage and will find it difficult to become proficient and productive at their job.
So this doesn’t happen to you, we’ve compiled five welding tips that, when put into practice, can take you from beginner to skilled welder in no time.
Ready to win at welding? Let’s begin!
Tips That Can Advance Your Welding Skills
Boost the proficiency and quality of your welds by putting the following simple tips into practice from the onset.
Tip #1: Visibility is everything.
Basically, what is meant by this is: that you have to be able to see what you’re welding completely. You may think there’s nothing wrong with a mask or helmet having scratches, but this can be dangerous if it affects your vision in any way. Sure, you may be able to see ‘fine,’ but can you see clearly? If the answer is no, then a replacement is in order.
Make it a point to have spare masks on hand so you can replace your main one in case it becomes defective. Some beginner welders think it’s fine to use a defective lens for as long they can see more than 50 percent. Well, we hate to break it to you, but anything less than 100 percent won’t cut it where welding vision is concerned.
The proficiency of your performance and the quality of your welds (not to mention your safety while welding) are on the line when welding visibility is anything less than perfect.
Tip #2: A plasma cutting machine is an equipment to go for.
Over the years, advancements like the plasma cutting machine have contributed significantly to the improved safety and outcomes of the welding process. As its name suggests, the plasma cutting machine allows welders to cut aluminum, steel, and other metals and materials using hot plasma.
The task of cutting through metal becomes a lot easier thanks to this highly advanced equipment. Not only that, but you can also cut through with more accuracy on metals of varying sizes and thicknesses.
In case you’re not too sure how to use the machine, read guides online that explain how the machine works and how to use it with maximum efficiency.
Tip #3: Your timing has to be perfect.
Pacing is one of the top things to improve if you’re looking to become a proficient welder. When you rush through the process, you could end up with too-thin and too-tall outcomes, an indication that your welds are of poor quality.
Rushing also results in poor pinhole formation and penetration. On the other hand, pacing too slow can lead to cold laps or overlaps. This forms when penetration is too weak that the weld doesn’t appear as one with the base metal and merely sits on top of it, creating poor aesthetics.
One of the keys to perfecting your welds is to take your time and let your welding machine guide you. Relax a little more and let your machine do most of the work. It’s best to keep things at an easy and even pace to ensure good-quality welds.
Tip #4: Have a plan.
Planning your welding project is essential. In particular, large-scale projects require a proper and detailed plan to ensure everything progresses smoothly and you’re able to accomplish things on time.
Planning everything, from the best position to weld to the times of day to execute a particular task. You should also consider the type of position that leads to the best quality welds for a specific material or portion of a structure.
Tip #5: Make sure everything is clean.
Skilled welders know to scrub and polish their workspaces before and after their tasks. You can’t start in a dirty and messy work environment, as this tends to affect how you work and the quality of your work. Similarly, you can’t leave these spaces disorganized once you’re done, as that would just be lazy behavior—not a good look on a welder.
In addition, it’s important to clean components before you start welding them, so their surfaces are smooth and spotless. This should make your welds look great and appealing.
Takeaway
Welding is a great skill to have in handy for some and can make an excellent livelihood for others. Regardless of how welding figures into your life, it’s essential to perform welding tasks safely and skillfully, so you get the results you’re looking for. Follow these aforementioned tips, and it should not take you long to excel as a welder.
