Last Updated: January 2026 Choosing a filler rod is usually the first thing that causes confusion when welding aluminum. The puddle reacts fast, heat spreads quickly, and different alloys behave in ways that aren’t always obvious. That means the filler rod you choose plays a big role in how clean and predictable the weld turns…
Whether you’re patching up a trailer frame or laying beads on a DIY project, choosing the right stick electrode can make all the difference. Two of the most popular options—7014 and 6013—are both reliable, easy to find, and beginner-friendly. But they perform a bit differently once you’re actually striking an arc. Here’s a breakdown of…
Whether you’re laying your first bead or working toward certification, understanding welding positions isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. These positions directly affect how your weld turns out, how difficult the job will be, and what kind of gear or technique you’ll need. Let’s walk through each position and what it means in the real world. The…
Understanding the 1G to 6G welding positions is essential if you want to move beyond the basics and build serious skill. These positions define how a weld is performed and impact everything from technique and comfort to certification and job readiness. Whether you’re practicing on plate or pipe, knowing what each position means—and how it…
Last Updated: January 2026 Aluminum welding looks simple until the weld starts cracking or refusing to flow. That’s usually when filler rod choice comes into focus. Ask experienced welders what the most common aluminum filler rod is, and you’ll hear the same answers again and again. Most aluminum work revolves around a small group of…
If you’re working on structural welding or pressure-rated joints, choosing the right low-hydrogen rod matters. While both 7018 and 9018 are strong and dependable, they aren’t interchangeable in every scenario. Let’s break down what makes these two rods different and when to reach for one over the other. Arc Performance Is Smooth with Both Welders…
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…
Last Updated: January 2026 Welding rusty metal is something almost every welder deals with sooner or later. Old steel, outdoor repairs, farm equipment, and quick fixes rarely come perfectly clean. Trying to weld through rust with the wrong rod usually leads to poor penetration, porosity, or a weld that looks fine until it fails under…
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…
Last Updated: January 2026 Aluminum welding usually feels simple right up until the puddle stops behaving. The bead won’t wet out, cracking shows up, or the weld just feels harder than it should. In most cases, that’s when filler rod choice becomes the real issue. Since 6061 aluminum is one of the most common alloys…