Welding Tips and Tricks

What is the best way to add filler metal, the lay wire technique or to add when it is needed?? Please respond & let me know which technique is an easier way for a beginner like myself, thanks

Both can be acceptable---it depends more so on the type of joint you're doing. If you're doing small diameter round tubing it doesn't make too much sense in trying to lay a wire that you'll just have to be moving around all the time. For the most part you will and to add filler by dabbing it at the leading edge of the puddle every time you scoot on down a weld joint. This will help you establish consistency that will translate into all aspects of welding.

Lay wire on an inside corner joint works well

Always dip with aluminum.

My .02

I like to dip, I think it makes a nicer looking weld but there are times that I have to use lay wire. Like everyone said, it is best to know both. Try both, practice practice practice and see what is more comfortable for you.

I use both methods, depending entirely on my comfort.

I've done "lay-wire" on pipe as small at 1/2", root to cap, when I can do it in the stands, and especially when I can roll it out.

I dab when I'm welding out of position, standing on my head in some tight space.

I always dab aluminum... Actually, "stab" is a better word, as I'm usually hauling A$$... I HAVE seen aluminum done in lay-wire, and to my complete amazement, even "walk the cup"...

Steve S

Otto Nobedder wrote:I use both methods, depending entirely on my comfort.

I've done "lay-wire" on pipe as small at 1/2", root to cap, when I can do it in the stands, and especially when I can roll it out.

I dab when I'm welding out of position, standing on my head in some tight space.

I always dab aluminum... Actually, "stab" is a better word, as I'm usually hauling A$$... I HAVE seen aluminum done in lay-wire, and to my complete amazement, even "walk the cup"...

Steve S

Walk the cup on aluminum huh, will have to give that a shot.
-Jonathan