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The weave bead:
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.
6.4 Welding position
Flat position:
It 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.
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.
6.5 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 following).
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.
ELECTRIC SHOCK CAN CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH! To prevent ELECTRIC SHOCK, do not
perform any welding while standing, kneeling, or lying directly on the grounded work piece.
6.6 Finish the bead
As the coating on the outside of the electrode burns off, it forms an envelope of protective gases
around the weld. This prevents air from reaching the molten metal and creating an undesirable
chemical reaction. The burning coating, however, forms slag. The slag formation appears as an
Flat Position
Horizontal Position
