Product Manual

Page 17 of 25
c. Types of weld bead
The following paragraphs discuss the most commonly used arc welding beads.
The stringer bead is formed by traveling with the electrode in a straight line while
keeping the electrode centered over the weld joint.
The weave bead is used when you want to deposit metal over a wider space than
would be possible with a stringer bead. It’s made by weaving from side to side while
moving with the electrode. It’s best to hesitate momentarily at each side before
weaving back the other way.
d. Welding position
The flat position is the easiest of the welding positions and the most commonly used.
It’s best if you can weld in the flat position, if at all possible, as good results are easier
to achieve.
The horizontal position is performed very much the same as the flat weld except that
the angle is different. The electrode and the arc force are directed more toward the
metal, above the weld joint. The 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. Judging the good weld bead
When you’ve learned to establish and to hold an arc, the next step is learning how to
run a good bead. The first attempts 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.
Stringer Bead
Weave Bead
Flat Position
Horizontal Position