Vulcan welders have built a reputation for offering serious value, especially for folks who want dependable performance without the industrial price tag. If you’ve seen one on the shelf at Harbor Freight and wondered whether it’s worth your money, you’re not alone. These machines are designed for weekend warriors, small-shop fabricators, and anyone who needs…
Rusty metal is a reality for welders—especially if you’re working outdoors, repairing older equipment, or dealing with salvaged steel. You don’t always have time (or the tools) to grind everything down to shiny bare metal. That’s where choosing the right rod really matters. Some electrodes just aren’t made for less-than-perfect surfaces. But others? They’ll power…
Stick welding (SMAW) has been a go-to method for decades—and for good reason. It’s tough, reliable, and doesn’t require a fancy setup. Whether you’re fixing a trailer in your driveway or building a gate on the farm, stick welding delivers solid results with minimal gear. Let’s break down how it works, what you need to…
Welding 6061 aluminum can be straightforward when you’ve got the right filler rod in hand. Whether you’re repairing a bike frame, fabricating a truck ramp, or building out parts in your home garage, picking the correct rod matters. The wrong filler can lead to cracks, weak joints, or welds that just won’t hold up. Let’s…
Welding cast iron to mild steel isn’t impossible—but it definitely comes with challenges. The two metals behave very differently under heat. Cast iron is brittle and rich in carbon, while mild steel is more ductile and forgiving. To get a solid weld between them, you’ll need the right filler wire, careful prep, and heat control….
When it comes to stick welding mild steel, 7014 and 7018 rods are two of the most common options you’ll run into. Each has its strengths, and the right choice depends on your setup, welding goals, and the kind of results you’re aiming for. Let’s take a closer look at how these two rods compare…
Welding cast aluminum takes more than just the right machine—it starts with the right filler rod. Castings are often old, porous, or full of unknown alloys, and that makes choosing your filler metal a critical step. Whether you’re patching up a cracked rim or rebuilding a corroded bracket, using the wrong rod can lead to…
The 7018 welding rod is a staple in the welding world—well-known for its strength, clean welds, and low-hydrogen properties. Whether you’re patching up a rusty trailer or working on structural beams, this rod comes up again and again as a reliable choice. Let’s break down what those four digits actually mean and how this rod…
Welding 304 stainless steel is common in fabrication shops, repair work, and industrial projects. From food equipment to exhaust systems, 304 shows up everywhere, and using the right filler rod makes all the difference. The correct filler helps you avoid cracking, get better corrosion resistance, and lay down clean welds that last. Let’s go through…
Aluminum repairs don’t always need a TIG machine or spool gun. If you’re dealing with light-duty cracks, patch jobs, or small aluminum parts, low-temp brazing rods like Blue Demon’s Triple Play can make life a whole lot easier. While actual “Alumifix” rods aren’t widely available, Alumaloy offers a similar solution that’s also well-rated. But if…