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Low power arc weld

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Stumpy

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Apr 29, 2012, 8:41:26 PM4/29/12
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I have one of those $70 - 70 amp arc welders. It works well with 1/16"
e-6013 sticks(rated 35-50 amp), but not so well with 3/32" e-6011 sticks.
The 6011s are rated for 40-85 amps.

I'm an untrained rookie trying to weld some plated chain to galvanized
posts. Will gladly buy 5 lbs of 1/16" e-6011 online if I think it would
make a stronger weld than what I've been doing with the e-6013. I don't
have the skills to work the 3/32" and don't have access to a more powerful
welder.

Does any one know of a hardware store, builder's supply, or welding shop in
San Diego that might have 1/16" 6011? It should be one of the lowest
current sticks available. Is it good stuff?

Ignoramus25949

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Apr 29, 2012, 10:49:52 PM4/29/12
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I strongly recommend to get a better welder, such as a Lincoln buzzbox
at the minimum.

i

Steve B

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Apr 29, 2012, 11:38:10 PM4/29/12
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"Stumpy" <peri...@spamnet.corn> wrote in message
news:yt-dnaFIsu0qQgDS...@earthlink.com...
Welcome to welding 101. The graduating point to 102 is when you outgrow
your equipment. And you have done so. Your skill level exceeds your
equipment, and now you need bigger equipment. Next time, overbuy and grow
into it.

1/16" rod isn't good for many things. The real welding world starts at
3/32" rods. If your machine won't even do those, you can't weld much
effectively. Go look for at least an AC DC Lincoln 225, or more if your
budget can take it.

Welcome to the welding club. You can never have too many welders.

Steve


Gunner Asch

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Apr 30, 2012, 3:10:37 AM4/30/12
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On Sun, 29 Apr 2012 17:41:26 -0700, "Stumpy" <peri...@spamnet.corn>
wrote:
Why not pick up a better welder? The little red Lincoln tombstones can
be bought for $125 or less on Craigslist if you look around and they
work well enough.

The problem with the little 70 amp welders..is they simply dont have
enough UMPH! to make a very good weld on anything but very very thin
stuff.

Gunner, who buys and sells welders

--
"The danger to America is not Barack Obama but a citizenry
capable of entrusting a man like him with the Presidency.
It will be far easier to limit and undo the follies of an
Obama presidency than to restore the necessary common sense
and good judgment to a depraved electorate willing to have
such a man for their? president.. Blaming the prince of the
fools should not blind anyone to the vast confederacy of
fools that made him their prince".

Gunner Asch

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Apr 30, 2012, 3:39:53 AM4/30/12
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On Sun, 29 Apr 2012 17:41:26 -0700, "Stumpy" <peri...@spamnet.corn>
wrote:

http://sandiego.craigslist.org/esd/for/2986221923.html
Lincoln 225 amp welder $100

Older but decent welder (made by Esab IRRC) $100
http://sandiego.craigslist.org/nsd/tls/2978505391.html

http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/grd/2950841228.html

http://sandiego.craigslist.org/csd/tls/2979615619.html

Etc etc.

Now..if you dont have 220 volts (electric drier outlet?)..then you will
probably have to find a small MIG unit that will run on 110vts.

Lincoln Weld Pack 100 or better.

It should be noted..that welding plated chain to galvanized posts is
tricky if you dont have lots of heat available. Its doable with your
tiny welder..but you are going to have to get the galvanized off along
with the plating. There simply isnt enough power in your welder to
"burn" it off. Muriatic acid put on with a paint brush may..may help
get it off, then wash well with a garden hose and THEn try it again.

Oh..while the little imported (Chinese made) MIG welders..the 90 amp
ones..may..may do the job for you..frankly,..they are pretty much a crap
shoot and wont last very long..and may give you a pretty weld with all
the strength of a soap bubble.


Gunner
Message has been deleted

Steve B

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Apr 30, 2012, 9:29:08 AM4/30/12
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"William Bagwell" <use-...@s.this.one.invalid> wrote in message
news:lkusp7dpfi1a6mbkq...@4ax.com...
> On Sun, 29 Apr 2012 17:41:26 -0700, "Stumpy" <peri...@spamnet.corn>
> wrote:
>
>>I'm an untrained rookie trying to weld some plated chain to galvanized
>>posts.
>
> How many welds? If only a few, try grinding all the plating and
> galvanizing off
> around where the welds will be. If hundreds, get a better welder as others
> have
> suggested.
> --
> William

If hundreds of galvanized items are being talked about, weld fume fever
would be an issue. Another important thing a newbie is not considering.

Steve


Stumpy

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Apr 30, 2012, 11:26:36 AM4/30/12
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I'm probably one of those guys that will always be riding the moped instead
of the Cadillac. Would like to pursue making what I've got work better. As
far as I can tell I'm plugged into a 15 amp 120v wall outlet and have not
had any electric problems. Will never be a pro like many of the engineering
guys here. Was hoping for some confirmation that 1/16" 6011 might be
stronger than what I have accomplished so far with 1/16" 6013.

I know it is not a standard stick, but must be available somewhere.


Stumpy

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Apr 30, 2012, 11:36:04 AM4/30/12
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>
>>I'm an untrained rookie trying to weld some plated chain to galvanized
>>posts.
>
> How many welds? If only a few, try grinding all the plating and
> galvanizing off
> around where the welds will be. If hundreds, get a better welder as others
> have
> suggested.
> --
> William

Good advice!


Packratpaul

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Apr 30, 2012, 1:16:40 PM4/30/12
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"Stumpy" <peri...@spamnet.con> wrote in message
news:ePqdnZkQqsytMgPS...@earthlink.com...
> I'm probably one of those guys that will always be riding the moped instead of the Cadillac.
> Would like to pursue making what I've got work better. As far as I can tell I'm plugged into a 15
> amp 120v wall outlet and have not had any electric problems. Will never be a pro like many of the
> engineering guys here. Was hoping for some confirmation that 1/16" 6011 might be stronger than
> what I have accomplished so far with 1/16" 6013.
>
> I know it is not a standard stick, but must be available somewhere.

You can get them at Amazon. There are several vendors selling these.

Search on E6011. You might want to get some 3/32" also...........Paul


Example: Free shipping if you buy 4 packs. (over $25)
http://www.amazon.com/23300-16-Inch-Welding-Electrodes-2-Pack/dp/B005TGMER2


Stumpy

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Apr 30, 2012, 1:32:20 PM4/30/12
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>> I'm probably one of those guys that will always be riding the moped
>> instead of the Cadillac. Would like to pursue making what I've got work
>> better. As far as I can tell I'm plugged into a 15 amp 120v wall outlet
>> and have not had any electric problems. Will never be a pro like many of
>> the engineering guys here. Was hoping for some confirmation that 1/16"
>> 6011 might be stronger than what I have accomplished so far with 1/16"
>> 6013.
>>
>> I know it is not a standard stick, but must be available somewhere.
>
> You can get them at Amazon. There are several vendors selling these.
>
> Search on E6011. You might want to get some 3/32" also...........Paul
>
>
> Example: Free shipping if you buy 4 packs. (over $25)
> http://www.amazon.com/23300-16-Inch-Welding-Electrodes-2-Pack/dp/B005TGMER2

I ordered the last one in stock from Hobart. Hot Max had some complaints.

http://www.hobartwelders.com/products/electrodes-wire/electrode-chart/

Odd that they don't even list the 1/16" 6011


Gunner Asch

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Apr 30, 2012, 3:27:28 PM4/30/12
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On Mon, 30 Apr 2012 10:32:20 -0700, "Stumpy" <peri...@spamnet.con>
wrote:
Let me check my stocks of rods..I may have some 1/16"....some 6010 (you
cant use it) and some 6011..but I think most of it will be 6013 or
similar (paint smudge markings if I recall)

But..you really..really need a bigger welder. Seriously.

Or..a MIG

Stumpy

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Apr 30, 2012, 3:50:52 PM4/30/12
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>>>> I'm probably one of those guys that will always be riding the moped
>>>> instead of the Cadillac. Would like to pursue making what I've got work
>>>> better. As far as I can tell I'm plugged into a 15 amp 120v wall
>>>> outlet
>>>> and have not had any electric problems. Will never be a pro like many
>>>> of
>>>> the engineering guys here. Was hoping for some confirmation that 1/16"
>>>> 6011 might be stronger than what I have accomplished so far with 1/16"
>>>> 6013.
>>>>
>>>> I know it is not a standard stick, but must be available somewhere.
>>>
>>> You can get them at Amazon. There are several vendors selling these.
>>>
>>> Search on E6011. You might want to get some 3/32" also...........Paul
>>>
>>>
>>> Example: Free shipping if you buy 4 packs. (over $25)
>>> http://www.amazon.com/23300-16-Inch-Welding-Electrodes-2-Pack/dp/B005TGMER2
>>
>>I ordered the last one in stock from Hobart. Hot Max had some complaints.
>>
>>http://www.hobartwelders.com/products/electrodes-wire/electrode-chart/
>>
>>Odd that they don't even list the 1/16" 6011
>>
> Let me check my stocks of rods..I may have some 1/16"....some 6010 (you
> cant use it) and some 6011..but I think most of it will be 6013 or
> similar (paint smudge markings if I recall)
>
> But..you really..really need a bigger welder. Seriously.
>
> Or..a MIG
>
> Gunner
>

I know you're right ... I'm pretty stubborn and will keep banging until
I must give in.

Would have to up-grade the wiring in my work area first. Not just the
welder.

Gunner Asch

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Apr 30, 2012, 5:15:37 PM4/30/12
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On Mon, 30 Apr 2012 12:50:52 -0700, "Stumpy" <peri...@spamnet.corn>
wrote:
If you snag a flux core MIG welder, you can use the same wiring.

And would be in a far better situation than you are now.

Just checked my 1/16" rods, only 6010 and 6013. Sorry. Shrug
Its not something I use very often..chuckle. Im trying to remember the
last time...6-8 yrs ago?

Ive got about 2000 lbs of rods...and rod that small is not something I
use very often.

https://picasaweb.google.com/104042282269066802602

https://picasaweb.google.com/104042282269066802602/WeldingStuff

Glenn Lyford

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May 1, 2012, 2:50:44 PM5/1/12
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On Sunday, April 29, 2012 8:41:26 PM UTC-4, Stumpy wrote:
> I have one of those $70 - 70 amp arc welders. It works well with 1/16"
> e-6013 sticks(rated 35-50 amp), but not so well with 3/32" e-6011 sticks.
> The 6011s are rated for 40-85 amps.
>
> I'm an untrained rookie trying to weld some plated chain to galvanized
> posts.

As others have mentioned, to get a better weld and avoid issues with fumes, you'd do best to sand, brush, or grind off the plating and galvanized first.

As to 1/16" rods that work well, I like 7014. Any 60xx series rod has a nominal strength of 60,000psi. The 70xx has a 70,000 psi rating. But I like the 7014 because it's easier for me to get a good weld, particularly in the 1/16" size. I think that's likely to be better measure for you than simply the theoretical maximum strength of the filler metal.

As to where to find it, I've gotten some in TSC, a Sears dedicated hardware store, and can sometimes even find it in Walmart (CH, Campbell-Hausfeld brand).

The caveat is I'm using this in a 220v machine, even if it is turned almost all the way down.

You might try grabbing a package and seeing if it works with your machine...after you've ground the coating off where your weld will go.

--Glenn Lyford

Bob F

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May 1, 2012, 8:15:01 PM5/1/12
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Gunner Asch wrote:
> On Sun, 29 Apr 2012 17:41:26 -0700, "Stumpy" <peri...@spamnet.corn>
> wrote:
>
>> I have one of those $70 - 70 amp arc welders. It works well with
>> 1/16" e-6013 sticks(rated 35-50 amp), but not so well with 3/32"
>> e-6011 sticks. The 6011s are rated for 40-85 amps.
>>
>> I'm an untrained rookie trying to weld some plated chain to
>> galvanized posts. Will gladly buy 5 lbs of 1/16" e-6011 online if I
>> think it would make a stronger weld than what I've been doing with
>> the e-6013. I don't have the skills to work the 3/32" and don't
>> have access to a more powerful welder.
>>
>> Does any one know of a hardware store, builder's supply, or welding
>> shop in San Diego that might have 1/16" 6011? It should be one of
>> the lowest current sticks available. Is it good stuff?
>
> Why not pick up a better welder? The little red Lincoln tombstones
> can be bought for $125 or less on Craigslist if you look around and
> they work well enough.
>
> The problem with the little 70 amp welders..is they simply dont have
> enough UMPH! to make a very good weld on anything but very very thin
> stuff.
>

Or, Use jumper cables to wire three car batteries in series.


et...@whidbey.com

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May 1, 2012, 9:39:32 PM5/1/12
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7014 runs well on AC and looks better than 6013 or 6011 too.

Stumpy

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May 2, 2012, 1:41:03 AM5/2/12
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---------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for advice. The 6011 is "in the mail". If it doesn't do the trick -
I'll look for some 7014.

The Hobart chart
http://www.hobartwelders.com/products/electrodes-wire/electrode-chart/
made it look like a higher current stick.

dca...@krl.org

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May 2, 2012, 10:43:24 PM5/2/12
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On Apr 30, 11:26 am, "Stumpy" <perilm...@spamnet.con> wrote:


>
> I'm probably one of those guys that will always be riding the moped instead
> of the Cadillac.  Would like to pursue making what I've got work better.  As
> far as I can tell I'm plugged into a 15 amp 120v wall outlet and have not
> had any electric problems.  Will never be a pro like many of the engineering
> guys here.  Was hoping for some confirmation that 1/16" 6011 might be
> stronger than what I have accomplished so far with 1/16" 6013.
>
> I know it is not a standard stick, but must be available somewhere.

So where do you live? There might be someone close to you that has a
better welder they would let you use.

Dan

Stumpy

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May 3, 2012, 9:18:39 AM5/3/12
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--------------------------------------------

No thanks. I'm in San Diego and I bet there are half a dozen better
machines down my street, but the goal is to be able to accomplish a few
things on my own. The 6013 is easy to use - just not very strong on this
project.

dca...@krl.org

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May 3, 2012, 11:59:39 AM5/3/12
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On May 3, 9:18 am, "Stumpy" <perilm...@spamnet.corn> wrote:
>
>
> No thanks.        I'm in San Diego and I bet there are half a dozen better
> machines down my street, but the goal is to be able to accomplish a few
> things on my own.  The 6013 is easy to use - just not very strong on this
> project.

You are not close to me, I am on the other coast. But here is an
idea, how about rewiring a Microwave oven transformer and putting it
is parallel with your welder to up the current rating. Microwave oven
transformers can be gotten free, but the wire for a new secondary will
probably have to be bought. Lots of articles on how to make a welder
from microwave oven transformers .

Dan

Stumpy

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May 3, 2012, 3:16:01 PM5/3/12
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<dca...@krl.org> wrote in message
news:901c64f6-4444-4a7a...@m10g2000vbb.googlegroups.com...
------------------------------------------

That sounds like a lot of fun, but I'd probably electrocute myself before
getting it to work. Underwriters Laboratory wouldn't like my workshop.

Ignoramus302

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May 3, 2012, 4:26:35 PM5/3/12
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On 2012-05-03, Stumpy <peri...@spamnet.corn> wrote:

Stumpy, With cheap shit junk welders, it is very easy to make welds
that have no fusion.


At least do yourself a favor and test your welds prior to placing them
in service. Hit them with a hammer, for example.

I just bought a hydraulic press, to which some idiot tried to weld
something. I could break off the welds by hand. It looked like a bird
pooped there.

i

Stumpy

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May 3, 2012, 7:21:01 PM5/3/12
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>
> Stumpy, With cheap shit junk welders, it is very easy to make welds
> that have no fusion.
>
>
> At least do yourself a favor and test your welds prior to placing them
> in service. Hit them with a hammer, for example.
>
> I just bought a hydraulic press, to which some idiot tried to weld
> something. I could break off the welds by hand. It looked like a bird
> pooped there.
>

That's my problem. I can break the weld with a light tap from a 16oz
hammer. That's why I stopped and have ordered a different type of rod. It
may be poor surface prep, problems between dissimilar metals, or just
inexperienced workmanship. I'm trying to be methodical and solve this
fusion problem.

If I still can't get it with the 6011, then I'll watch more U-Tube or visit
a local shop and ask some questions. This is not a paying job for me, I'm
just bimbling. I'll check back here after I've tried something new.

Ignoramus302

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May 3, 2012, 10:28:32 PM5/3/12
to
On 2012-05-03, Stumpy <peri...@spamnet.corn> wrote:
>>
>> Stumpy, With cheap shit junk welders, it is very easy to make welds
>> that have no fusion.
>>
>>
>> At least do yourself a favor and test your welds prior to placing them
>> in service. Hit them with a hammer, for example.
>>
>> I just bought a hydraulic press, to which some idiot tried to weld
>> something. I could break off the welds by hand. It looked like a bird
>> pooped there.
>>
>
> That's my problem. I can break the weld with a light tap from a 16oz
> hammer. That's why I stopped and have ordered a different type of rod. It
> may be poor surface prep, problems between dissimilar metals, or just
> inexperienced workmanship. I'm trying to be methodical and solve this
> fusion problem.

For fusion, you need to melt

1) The electrode
2) Metal on one side of the joint
3) Metal on the other side of the joint.

Without enough heat input, 2 and 3 may not melt, resulting in no
fusion. Enough heat input is only possible with a welder that is big
enough to produce enough heat.

> If I still can't get it with the 6011, then I'll watch more U-Tube or visit
> a local shop and ask some questions. This is not a paying job for me, I'm
> just bimbling. I'll check back here after I've tried something new.
>

Practicing is a great idea.

i

Stumpy

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May 9, 2012, 6:45:52 PM5/9/12
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The 6011 came in. It didn't really do it right for me. I acknowledge that
Gunner and Ignoramus were right and that 70 amps is not enough. It only
really starts the arc easily with the 1/16" 6013. Must be a reason why
1/16" 6011 is not standard.

Maybe the neighborhood shop gets to keep the rods that don't work for me.
I'm still satisfied that I've got a good system to weld up the small arms
targets that I bought it for. Just can't do much else. Works fine on small
brackets welded to clean rebar.

There must be some kind of a "rule of thumb" that you select a welder that
puts out max power equivalent to the max range of the
electrodes-wire/electrode-chart. I learn the hard way.

dca...@krl.org

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May 9, 2012, 7:35:56 PM5/9/12
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On May 9, 6:45 pm, "Stumpy" <perilm...@spamnet.corn> wrote:

> There must be some kind of a "rule of thumb" that you select a welder that
> puts out max power equivalent to the max range of the
> electrodes-wire/electrode-chart.  I learn the hard way.

Keep checking Craigslist. I saw a Miller buzz box in the local
Craigslist for $50 and in the picture it looked very clean. The add
is gone now, so someone got a super deal.


Dan

Ignoramus438

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May 10, 2012, 6:45:33 AM5/10/12
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On 2012-05-09, Stumpy <peri...@spamnet.corn> wrote:
> There must be some kind of a "rule of thumb" that you select a welder that
> puts out max power equivalent to the max range of the
> electrodes-wire/electrode-chart. I learn the hard way.
>

The rule of thumb is that with a good honest source of 125 amps and at least
45 OCV, you can weld anything with 1/8" welding rods.

i

Peter Fairbrother

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May 11, 2012, 2:21:32 AM5/11/12
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Gunner Asch wrote:
>[...]
>
> It should be noted..that welding plated chain to galvanized posts is
> tricky if you dont have lots of heat available. Its doable with your
> tiny welder..but you are going to have to get the galvanized off along
> with the plating. There simply isnt enough power in your welder to
> "burn" it off. Muriatic acid put on with a paint brush may..may help
> get it off, then wash well with a garden hose and THEn try it again.


Soaking galvanised bits in caustic soda solution overnight will dissolve
the zinc but not the steel. Cheaper and less horrible than using
muriatic acid, as there aren't any fumes to cause every bit of metal in
your shop to rust ... damhikt ..

You'll still need to grind it after, but only lightly.

-- Peter Fairbrother

Peter Fairbrother

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May 11, 2012, 3:44:24 AM5/11/12
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Sorry, a good wire brushing is all that's needed, no grinding.

I just tried on a bit of scaffold pipe I had soaked some time ago, took
a bead no problem, but I should have known that anyway. Don't know what
I was thinking.

-- Peter Fairbrother


>
> -- Peter Fairbrother
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