Can welding

D

Dakota 11

Joined
Apr 14, 2006
Messages
252
so i understand making damascus for the most part i got the borax method understood fairly well. but i want to can weld some steel up and avoid the borax mess. anyways i have some retangular tubing that i want to do this in. i was going to use som e stainless foil wrap on the inside of tubuing to keep the metals from sticking. what i need to know is like with the borax method do i need to set the wled on the press or in the no oxygen environment will the weld set itself. pretty sure i know the answer is that it will have to be pressed down while in the tubing to set the weld. cant wait this going to be my first attempt at some damascus.
 
Must squish the can.

In theory, if it is packed tight enough and with no oxygen it will weld. But reduction is necessary to get strong welds.
 
thanks don just what i was looking for. after this next week when im done trapping some black bears ill be set for some damascus.
 
Don is right. A few other things to be aware of with a can weld:

  • Make SURE to leave a pinhole when you weld your caps in. If the box can't outgas, it can explode in the forge and really cause a lot of damage.
  • Fit your can ends INTO the can, not ONTO it before you weld. This will give you a stronger can end and give you less of a chance of having the lid let go on you.
  • Stainless foil might keep the can from welding to the billet, but then again it may not. If the forge is hot enough you can weld even dirty, oxidized HT foil to the billet (ask me how I know....)
  • If you're using powder, take it easy for the first 1/3 or so of reduction. You'll feel when it firms up and the weld is truly set.
  • Let your can soak for longer than you think you need to. You need to make SURE that the entire canister is up to welding heat. For a 2"x2"x4" can I soak for 30-35 minutes before welding.

Good luck and let us know how it goes!

-d
 
deker said:
Don is right. A few other things to be aware of with a can weld:

  • Make SURE to leave a pinhole when you weld your caps in. If the box can't outgas, it can explode in the forge and really cause a lot of damage.

    Good luck and let us know how it goes!

    -d
Click to expand...


  • I have never left a pin hole and have never had a problem. I wonder if the thickness of the canister is the difference? :confused:
 
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