smoother stick welding starts

by steve layne
(Cambridge Ohio)

When your striking your arc with SMAW, (stick welding) strike it like a match and then pull the rod about an inch above your steel for a second or so before getting down to the metal to start your bead, this gets the plate nice and hot before you start your weld and makes it easier to get your puddle burnt in right from the get go...

that way you dont end up with a ball at the start of your bead.

mine look way better now that I take the time to heat the plate

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well said Steve,,, thats what I do.

jody