Settings Q

Apr 19, 2004 3 Replies
J

Ernie et al,



I have a settings question. I want to weld a 1/2 SS pipe coupler to a



0.040 thick plate. All pieces 304 w/ 308 filler rod.

I have a test piece, because as you all know I am pretty new to this. Early attempts at the test piece have not been well.



My current settings are 55amps, DCEN, hi freq start.



I can't seem to get the fitting to puddle well. It is about .250 thick. I cranked the power a little, but still couldn't get it very well. Obviously I need to concentrate the arc towards the fitting and sweep towards the plate just a little to puddle and then add some filler.



My first attempt I melted through the plate. 2nd try, I got a bead to form, but it isn't really very good. It is stuck to the fitting and to the plate. But it is sort of bridged and hasn't puddled right down to the intersection point.



Suggestions on technique or settings?



JW


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E

When welding dissimilar thickness you have to use the heavier piece to set your amperage. You can cheat it down, but not by that much. The fact that the pieces are stainless helps here. I would go for a setting for 150 amps. Point most the heat on the coupler, and don't sweep or weave the torch. So figure a 35 degree angle from the base and aim about 1/8" from the edge of the coupler Add filler metal very fast to eat up the heat that would otherwise blow a hole through your sheet metal. Keep your tungsten extremely tight to the work.

TIG Brazing this would be a lot safer as it would use half the amperage.

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J

So what is the recommended filler for this operation on 304SS?

Thanks

JW

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E

Silicon Bronze, or nickle bronze.

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