Joining steel

GTAW (aka TIG) will lend itself to delicate work. You may be familiar with this process for Aluminum welding.

You'll still want to use 100% argon, however you'll change the tungsten electrode to the 2% Thoriated (red one). Also change the polarity (Aluminum is AC) to DCEN (aka straight)

Use low carbon stainless filler, such as 304L. The lack of carbon will dilute the higher carbon in the "other steel mouldings". This is important because if too much carbon get into the stainless steal it will cause carbide precipitation which will lead to cracks.

Use a NEW stainless steel wire brush to clean the weld area. Again the stainless steel bristles prevent the addition of extra carbon. Save this brush for stainless welding only.

Remember stainless is much more likely to wrap than Al or mild steel. So use lots of tack welds.

You can pretect the delicate pieces by wraping them in wet towels or placing a copper block behind them.

Good Luck

Paul Davenport wrote:

there are several solderin options available for stainless, a company-HI-ALLOY makes a really nice welding kit for stainless, small kits come with liquid flux ans silver solder , melts at 400 degrees, check around in local welding stores