Welding Machines

Many types and sizes of welding machines are used for shielded metal-arc welding. The current of a Constant-Current type does not change significantly in variations in arc length. This is preferred for manual welding operations.

The Constant-Potential type of welding machine adjusts current according to arc length. If used in a manual operation, unavoidable variations in arc length will produce large fluctuations in current, resulting in an unstable, non-uniform arc. For automatic operations, constant electrode feed rate establishes a stable arc and uniform arc length.

The current rating of machine is its maximum current output. A current rating of 400 amp means machine can deliver up to 400 amps of welding current.

The duty cycle rating of machine is safe operating capacity for non-stop welding. This is expressed as a percentage over a 10-minute period over which a machine can deliver its rated maximum welding current output without damage or overheating. An 80 percent 400-amp machine is one, which can deliver 400 amps of welding current for a total of 8 minutes out of every 10, and must idle at least, 2 minutes out of every 10 for cooling.

Tools and Accessories

The tools for SMAW are: cables, holders, clamps, chipping hammer, wire brush. The protective equipment are face shield, goggles, apron, gloves, shoes, long sleeved shirt. The protective equipment is to avoid eye injuries, and burns. Also there is a need to prevent electric shocks, especially in wet areas.

Selecting an Electrode

Electrodes are classified by their core material: mild steel, high-carbon steel, special alloy steel, cast iron, and non-ferrous. Mild steel electrodes are most commonly used. In general, electrode core material is matched as closely as possible with composition of base metal. Electrode size varies with thickness of base metal.

The size and characteristics of selected electrode determine arc current settings on welding machine. Normally, range of recommended amperage for electrode is given by manufacturer.

Set up and Operation

Observe fire precautions before starting to weld. No combustible should be near work area. 

With electrical power still off; clamp earth wire to work piece and electrode on holder. Turn on power. To strike an arc, position end of electrode about 1 inch above weld start point. Lower your face shield and with a rapid tapping of scratching motion, touch electrode to base of metal. Immediately after contact, raise end of electrode slightly to establish an arc whose length is approximately equal to electrode diameter.

If you do not raise electrode fast enough, it will stick to work. Twist or bend electrode to break it free. If electrode does not break free, quickly release it from holder. With a little practice, you can learn to strike an arc without electrode sticking.

When current settings and a proper arc length is maintained, a continuous cracking sound is heard while welding. A humming sound indicates that arc length is too long or current is too high. Arcs too short make a popping sound and may flash on and off, indicating electrode is sticking and short circuiting to base metal.

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Essential oils derive their substance directly from nature. Lemon oil comes from expressed rinds of fruit, rose essential oil is from petals of this lovely flower, and sandalwood comes from wood of Indian, Indonesian or Australian-grown tree. Essential oils can be reasonably priced at only a few dollars per ounce [citrus scents], to more than $350 for Bulgarian rose otto from Valley of Roses or a ‘mere’ $197 for some skin healing Immortelle from island of Corsica. To use such expensive oils in a bar of soap isn’t necessary. Pure essential oils are best used in a lotion or cream – so they can be absorbed into skin and not washed away.

Don’t Add Fresh Fruit or Vegetables Tempting as it may be, refrain from adding that pureed avocado. Don’t put in those dewy lavender or rose buds unless you want to see them turn brown before your eyes. A fresh slice of cucumber would look gorgeous suspended in a translucent bar of soap – until mold grows over it. Even if you sprinkle in Fruit Fresh or powdered benzoin, even if a book or online article instructs you to do so --- DON’T ADD FRESH FRUIT OR VEGETABLES. You can add dried herbs such as peppermint or rosemary, but expect them to turn brown within a few days or weeks. This is because glycerin soap contains up to 10% water. Water causes pretty dried lavender buds and green leaves to turn that color also.

Test, Test, Test No, you don’t have to take a test—not even a quiz! You just have to be sure of what you’re doing in kitchen or soap room. You have to be comfortable making your soap before you sell even a single bar. Don’t have your first batch be a complicated multi-color embed project. Start with a simple soap shape and use one color and one scent. You have to be certain that colors won’t run or fade. Will your fragrances hold up for more than a month? Does your soap sweat? Will that lovely white vanilla or coconut soap remain that color or will it turn chocolate brown in a matter of weeks?

You are first person to test your soaps. Then your family. Let a few friends, neighbors and coworkers in on your soaping hobby that may just turn into quite business. Anticipate questions from testers/potential customers. Know answers. Do this for at least six months, but a year is even better. Remember, you need to be happy with your products, as you’re now soapcrafter.

The Business of Soap When you plan to sell your handcrafted glycerin soap creations this entails naming more than each type of soap you make; you’ll become a business owner. For more information on this large and important aspect, check out book “Handmade for Profit!” by crafts industry expert Barbara Brabec.