Been around there for the oilfield a couple years ago...here's a question...if I take a vertical plate test, do I set my machine on my practice piece vertically too? And how long of a bead should I run on the practice plate to determine if my machine is running right?

Been in shipyard on and off for 2 yrs now as a "fitter/welder"( I use the term loosely). Due to financial hardships I was unable to finish welding school and have been limited with the welding jobs that I'm actually qualified to do. There is a peace that comes to me when I have my hood dow...