Welding end plates onto smoker, mig/stick?

StickPigBBQ

I am finally getting started with the build in a more dedicated mode so I have a question for those with offset building experience. I plan to use stick to weld my end caps, (plasma cut 3/16 plate) onto my main chamber, (18"OD x 3/8" wall). Can I use mig for this effectively? The mig welder is my 140 power mig and she can handle up to 5/16 with multiple passes according to the chart on the machine. (ive never tried that thick before but she does 1/4 no problem). The only reason I am asking is that in order to use the stick welder I will have to either find a way to move the pipe and the stands back up to the house to use it or build a very long 220V extension cord. What are your thoughts?

Josh
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Blazer · Posted: Tue Jan 03 12 10:32 pm Post subject:

You should be ok with the mig stickpig. As with any mig just make sure you are not set to high on your wire speed. It seems alot of people look for that nice smooth frying sound and that is not always correct. Mig done incorrectly will just sit the weld right on top of the metal. Grind both sides clean. You can put a little bevel on your end cap too wouldn't hurt a thing. This is my 2cents. Lets hear from the other guy's. Very Happy

tacklebox · Posted: Wed Jan 04 12 9:11 am Post subject:

Welding 3/16" plate to 3/8" tube with a 120V 140A MIG? Rent or borrow a 220V generator if you can and stick weld it. You'll be pushing the limits of both your little machine and your patience trying to get it right. JM2C (I have a Hobart Handler 140, and the only way I have gotten somewhat acceptable results on heavy gauge steel is by using flux core wire.)
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Skidder · BBQ Super Pro Joined: 10 Feb 2008 Posts: 1717

You'll also have to deal with the low duty cycle. That's alot to weld with the 140 mig

k.a.m. · Posted: Wed Jan 04 12 12:13 pm Post subject:

Josh, I do not Mig but I would go with Blazer's recommendation having a nice clean bevel on both pipe and cap should get you a nice fill. I would do a test run to get my settings correct and if it appears the weld is sitting on top crank up the heat, slow down or both. from a structural standpoint I do not believe the machine can produce the penetration needed for that material with out multiple passes but for end caps on a cooker if you can get them to lay down then you should be okay.
These are just my thoughts. Smile

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StickPigBBQ · Posted: Thu Jan 05 12 4:27 pm Post subject:

Well I thank all of you for your input and after a lot of consideration I have decided to borrow a buddies engine hoist, lift the pipe, add wheels to the pipe stand and bring it up to the patio area where I can use the stick welder to do it. I want it to be done right the first time and not have to worry about beveling or multiple passes or renting generators so I will just bite the bullet and get it done this weekend with some help Laughing

I will start posting some pics after I get some progress done on this build in the cooker section. Im sure there will be more questions but thanks a lot guys, I appreciate it!

Josh
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A proud member of da WHO DAT NATION!!!
NB Offset Smoker-Modified
"The Mustang"- http://www.thesmokering.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=54065

Offset Smoker Build....In the planning stages.....
......if you cant drink it, SMOKE IT!

fabguy1 · Joined: 01 Jun 2011 Posts: 12 Location: Indiana

Hi Stick Pig BBQ, if you have a 18" diameter cook chamber with a 3/8" wall thickness, just cut your end plates at 17 5/8". Then center the end plate, and that will give you a nice corner to corner weld. Your MIG welder will do just fine welding that up. Just take your time, and let the welder do its job. Remember,Its not rocket science, its just a smoker. Very Happy

tanglediver · Posted: Sat Jan 07 12 6:47 am Post subject:

I think you chose wisely to go with stick. I have owned both 110 and 220 volt powered mig machines. The little ones (140 class) are nice for lots of light guage work, but structures of thicker material need more input power to dig deep. But no matter what process, clean prep; good fitup; and a little pre-heat to dry off the surface go a long way to help you make good welds the first time.

(I have another cooker to start, I just can't stop burning fat on my first one!) Razz

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