Tackle common welding problems with practical solutions from real welders. From arc blow to porosity, get clear fixes that actually work.
When you’re working with aluminum, 6061 often ends up being the go-to choice. It’s strong, versatile, easy to weld, and machines well. But once you start ordering material, you’ll likely see two common options: 6061 T6 and 6061 T651. At first glance, they seem almost identical. However, there are important differences that can affect your…
Polarity plays a major role in how your stick welds turn out. The right setting gives you solid penetration, clean welds, and better control of the puddle. The wrong one leaves you fighting spatter, poor fusion, and weak welds that won’t hold up under stress. Here’s a clear breakdown of which polarity works best, depending…
TIG welding depends on shielding gas to protect your weld from contamination. Unlike processes like stick or flux-core MIG, TIG doesn’t have built-in flux to keep oxygen and moisture out. Without gas, things start to go wrong almost immediately. Still, many beginners wonder if they can skip the gas to save a little money or…
Welding cast iron to steel is absolutely doable, but it’s not the kind of job you want to rush into. These two metals behave very differently when heated, and unless you prep properly and use the right filler, your weld could crack—or completely fail—after cooling. If you’re tackling a repair that involves joining cast iron…
If you’ve only got a DC TIG machine and need to weld aluminum, you’re not out of luck—but you’re in for a bit of a challenge. While aluminum is typically welded using AC current, it is possible to do it with DC. You just have to know what you’re working with, prep properly, and adjust…
Welding cast iron—especially when it’s something as important as an engine block—takes patience, the right filler, and careful prep. It’s not your everyday welding job, but with the right steps, TIG welding cast iron is totally possible, even in a home garage or small shop. Whether you’re fixing a cracked block on an older vehicle…
Welding a magnet to a metal like steel, for example, might sound straightforward, but it presents unique challenges that make it very different from welding typical metal parts. Whether for industrial applications or DIY projects, knowing how welding affects a magnet’s structure and function is essential before striking an arc. What Happens When You Weld…
If you’re tackling a car project in your garage and wondering if a MIG welder can handle frame work—the short answer is: yes, it can, but there’s a lot more to it than just firing up your machine and laying down a bead. Whether you’re restoring an old truck or building a custom off-road rig,…
MIG welding stainless steel is not only possible—it’s practical for many real-world jobs. With the right wire, gas, and settings, even a basic MIG setup can produce strong, clean welds on stainless. That makes it a solid option for DIY projects, small shops, and quick repairs. If you’re fabricating stainless brackets, patching a frame, or…
A cracked rim is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a serious safety concern. Whether caused by potholes, curb hits, or metal fatigue, a damaged rim can lead to tire blowouts or compromised vehicle handling. Welding may offer a cost-effective repair solution, but it’s not always the best or safest route. Understanding when and how to…