Hello from Nova Scotia! {Injury}

[KYZAAC]

Hey everyone, I am from Cape Breton, NS Canada im 23 years old, unfortunately I just started welding about three months ago. I was pipe fitting for a few years after I graduated, but I was in a motorcycle accident on October 7, 2007 which totally paralyzed my right arm and shoulder (Brachial Plexus Injury)
I had reconstructive surgeryin May of 2008, they done a few nerve transfers. I have gained little movement since, some hand/wrist and I can bend my elbow a bit.
I enjoyed my pipe fitting job but I knew if I continued then I would only be standing around most of the time doing nothing because of my arm and that would drive me crazy, so the next best thing would be to start welding and I would at least be in the same work atmosphere.
Turns out I actually love welding, it's definitely a challenge for me with my arm, that's why I picked up a welder just to get the hang of it before I go to school in September, I know it is going to take me longer to learn and I don't want to fall behind.

I am having trouble welding thin metals. Like 1x1 angle iron., i just got some to mess around with and i cant seem to get the right settings. I am using a 3/32 6011 rod and I tried all different heat settings. Some tacs will hold others will burn through, and if I try a bead it does the same. I don't know if i need diff rods, or there is some kind of trick or maybe just takes practice, let me know plz. i might post some where else if this is not the right spot

thanks
Craig

[specter]

Hi Ya KYZAAC and Welcome to the Welding Web Family. You might want to post your question or request about welding on thin metal in the General Welding Forum.

[Magnetic Mechanic]

welcome aboard and kudos for not just laying out.

[transit]

KYZAAC, you’re not giving us enough information. You say you are using 6011, 3/32 Rod, what is the THICKNESS of the 1 x 1 angle iron? Stick may be too hot and Mig would be a better choice.

[JC'sWelding]

Welcome. If it's too thin, you could try some 6011 in 1/16 diameter. I can't imagine angle iron being that thin though. You could do 1/16 6011 at around 55-60 amps, do a slight weave pausing at both sides to get it wet.

[dellwas]

Welcome aboard, and glad to see another Bluenoser here! I'm in Chester Grant, on the South Shore.

[tanglediver]

Hey KYZAAC! :waving:
6011 is a deep penetrating rod that must be oscillated. If you switch to maybe 6013 in the same size, it is far easier to join thinner metal. This is because 6013 is a shallower penetrating drag rod. Good luck, and keep up the studies!! :angel: