Product Manual

Page 37 of 47
The weave bead is used when you want to deposit metal over a wider space than
would be possible with a stringer bead. It is made by weaving from side to side while
moving with the electrode. It is best to hesitate momentarily at each side before
weaving back the other way.
d. Welding position
Flat position is easiest of the welding positions and is most commonly used. It is best
if you can weld in the flat position if at all possible as good results are easier to
achieve in this position.
The horizontal position is performed very much the same as the flat weld except that
the angle is different such that the electrode, and therefore the arc force, is directed
more toward the metal above the weld joint. This more direct angle helps prevent the
weld puddle from running downward while still allowing slow enough travel speed to
achieve good penetration. A good starting point for your electrode angle is about 30
degrees DOWN from being perpendicular to the work piece.
e. Judge the good weld bead
When the trick of establishing and holding an arc has been learned, the next step is
learning how to run a good bead. The first attempts in practice will probably fall short
of acceptable weld beads. Too long of an arc will be held or the travel speed will vary
from slow to fast. See the following illustration:
A. Weld speed is too fast.
B. Weld speed is too slow.
C. Arc is too long.
D. Ideal weld.
A solid weld bead requires that the electrode be moved slowly and steadily along the
weld seam. Moving the electrode rapidly or erratically will prevent proper fusion or
create a lumpy, uneven bead.
Stringer Bead
Weave Bead
Flat Position
Horizontal Position