Stainless welding questions

[Atlas Knife Company]

I just picked up the Hobart welder from a friend, and now I can start welding on my 2x72. I haven't welded with a MIG welder with gas nor with stainless in 20 years. Cripes, I'm getting old! Anyway, any quick tips for welding stainless as opposed to gas-less mild would be of the greatest help.

I will be welding 1x1x1/8" 309L angles.

 

[A C Richards]

Use argon or helium argon mix. Do not overheat or the back will crystallize. There is a protectant used to prevent the "sugaring". I cannot remember the name. Mix with alcohol and it works pretty good. If course you need to use SS wire. Good luck

 

[SteelSlaver]

Another thing is to try to do as many welds as you can flat. Stainless loves to flow and when running up hill it is touchy and if your not careful it will suddenly drop down in a "gut pile"
The stuff he is talking about for a coating is Solar B and it is used to protect the backside from sugaring (deoxidization)

 

[Atlas Knife Company]

Now I know why I couldn't weld uphill. I'll remember to turn it on its side so it is more level next time. Also, I had to turn it up from 2 to 6 on the feed speed.

and when running up hill it is touchy