3G Open Root Plate Test | 6010 & 7018 | Stick Welding
WeldTube・1 minute read
Merle Haggard demonstrates a detailed stick welding technique using a 3G open route on a 1/2 inch plate, beginning with surface preparation and specific rod selections for different passes. He emphasizes proper technique and angles throughout the process to ensure strong penetration and a smooth finish.
Insights
- Merle Haggard outlines a precise welding process that begins with preparing the metal surfaces by grinding off mill scale and using a 3/32 rod to maintain a proper gap, which is crucial for achieving strong welds. He emphasizes the importance of technique throughout the welding stages, including using specific rod types and amperages, as well as employing methods like the whip and pause technique for root passes and careful weaving for fill passes to ensure quality and structural integrity in the final weld.
- Throughout the welding process, Haggard demonstrates the significance of adjusting techniques based on the welding stage, such as grinding high points before the hot pass and favoring the outside wall during the cap pass to prevent undercutting, showcasing the critical balance between technique and attention to detail in achieving a smooth and durable finish.
Get key ideas from YouTube videos. It’s free
Recent questions
What is stick welding?
Stick welding, also known as shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), is a manual arc welding process that uses a consumable electrode coated in flux to lay the weld. The process involves creating an electric arc between the electrode and the workpiece, which melts both the electrode and the base metal, allowing them to fuse together. The flux coating on the electrode generates a shielding gas and slag, which protect the weld pool from contamination by atmospheric elements. Stick welding is widely used due to its versatility, portability, and effectiveness in various positions and environments, making it a popular choice for both industrial and DIY applications.
How do you prepare for welding?
Preparing for welding involves several critical steps to ensure safety and quality in the weld. First, it is essential to clean the metal surfaces to remove any contaminants such as rust, oil, or mill scale, which can affect the weld quality. This can be done using a grinder or wire brush. Next, proper fit-up of the pieces to be welded is crucial; they should be aligned correctly, and any gaps should be appropriately spaced, often using a filler rod to maintain the desired distance. Additionally, setting up the welding equipment, including selecting the right electrode and adjusting the amperage based on the material thickness, is vital. Finally, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, helmets, and protective clothing is necessary to ensure safety during the welding process.
What is the purpose of a root pass?
The root pass is the initial weld bead applied to the joint, and it serves a fundamental purpose in the welding process. It establishes the foundation for the subsequent layers of weld metal and is critical for ensuring proper penetration and fusion between the base metals. A well-executed root pass helps to prevent defects such as lack of fusion or incomplete penetration, which can compromise the strength of the weld. The technique used during the root pass, such as the whip and pause method, allows the welder to control the heat input and ensure that the weld penetrates adequately into both sides of the joint. This step is essential for achieving a strong and durable weld, as it sets the stage for the fill and cap passes that follow.
What is a hot pass in welding?
A hot pass in welding refers to a subsequent layer of weld metal applied over the root pass, typically performed after grinding down any high points from the initial weld. The purpose of the hot pass is to further enhance the weld's integrity by adding additional material and ensuring proper fusion between the layers. During this phase, the welder often uses a specific technique, such as an up-down or side-to-side motion, while maintaining a consistent rod angle to control the heat and penetration. The hot pass is crucial for preparing the joint for the fill passes that follow, as it helps to create a smooth transition and ensures that the weld pool remains fluid, allowing for better bonding of the subsequent layers.
How do you finish a weld?
Finishing a weld involves applying the final cap pass, which is the last layer of weld metal added to the joint. This step is essential for achieving a smooth and aesthetically pleasing surface while also ensuring the structural integrity of the weld. During the cap pass, the welder typically uses a specific type of electrode, such as a 7018 rod, and focuses on favoring the outside wall to prevent undercutting. The technique involves overlapping the weld bead adequately to create a uniform finish, which may include pausing briefly on each side to control the buildup of material. Proper finishing not only enhances the appearance of the weld but also contributes to its strength and durability, making it a critical aspect of the welding process.
Related videos
Summary
00:00
Merle Haggard's Expert Stick Welding Technique
- Merle Haggard demonstrates a 3G open route stick welding technique using a 1/2 inch plate, starting by grinding off mill scale about 1/2 inch outside the bevel on both sides.
- For a 3/32 gap, Merle bends a 3/32 rod to space the metal pieces, then tacks the corner using a 6010 rod at 75 amps, ensuring the surfaces are flush.
- The root pass is executed with a 6010 rod at 75 amps, employing a whip and pause technique, ensuring to touch both sides of the wall for proper penetration.
- After completing the root pass, Merle grinds down high points before performing a hot pass at 90 amps, using an up-down, side-to-side motion while maintaining a 10-15 degree rod angle.
- For fill passes, he uses a 3/32 7018 rod at 90 amps, weaving from side to side, pausing for two seconds on each side to avoid excessive buildup.
- The final cap pass is done with a 7018 rod, favoring the outside wall to prevent undercutting, ensuring overlap of about 16,000 on the face for a smooth finish.




