I am building sliders out of 2x3 tube, 3/16, and schedule 40 pipe. I am using a 230 MIG and have been using 30 wire for tacks and such. I am woried about making good welds for structure and just want your opinions on what setting and such i should use.

Thanks

 

I bet you get a quicker response over there

http://www.weldingweb.com/index.php

I've been lurking for a while. Contemplating a welding course & a 230v mig for my steel jeep accesories.

 

Every welding machine is a little different, so giving exact settings is nearly impossible. Plus if you have a dirty liner or tip, it can vary. Are you running fluxcore or gas sheilded...woops I see you are using .030" wire so you must be using gas sheilded. For 3/16" steel I would run the voltage wide open and wire speed about 6-7, just feel it in where it sounds like bacon frying...resulting in a smooth feed into the puddle. Distance you hold your tip from the work peice and how clean the steel is will cause variation as well. Hope this helps some...practice on scrap until it feels right.
Jim

 

I don't know if this is the case with your welder but every "newer" (younger than I ) welder I have ever used has a application chart on the inside cover. It tells you a setting for a thickness of metal cross referneced with the gas and wire you are using. It is a good start, it works for some and is a good ballpark for others. If you don't have one in there depending on the welder brand you have try going to their site. I know Miller has alot of great info on their site.

hope that helps.

Nick