I have some 16 gauge stainless to weld and have been having some trouble getting the control I am used to when I weld the same thickness in ms.
Tungsten size 1/16. Filler 1/16 ss rod. Amps max 50 (using a torch head control). Butt weld.
I can get the puddle I want but the rod just cools the puddle too much. I've been practicing and have been getting consistently better results. It looks like I might be able to get a good weld if I keep at the practice. (I find I have to fudge a bit: make puddle, dip to produce a little glob, melt the glop into what remains of the puddle, all the while keep the rod very close to the arc to keep it very hot.)
So I checked with my local (small town) independent welding supply and found I can get .030 (and up) mig wire. But it comes in 25 lb spools! Yikes! I didn't even ask the price.
I know a guy who works in the shop at the hospital where I work and they might have some ss wire. I suppose I could buy a bunch off a spool at a local welding shop.
Am I on track here?
TIA, David Todtman