Hey Mangler,
I'll try give you a basic understanding as to what all the fellows are saying to help you learn the parameters of welding, whether steel or AL.. Each metal has a hardness, melting point, grain structure, cold roll, hot roll, extruded, etc., and each will weld differently. The learning process is quite extensive and takes years and much practice....and many mistakes. The mistakes are what make you learn. Your eagerness is commendable, and your "hunger" to learn will be satiated by doing some research on the parameters of metals and reading some good metallugical and metal fabrication books.
When you strike an arc, you must be able to intensely look at the arc melt point and the meld that is taking place. This will allow you to determine if your hot, cold, fast or slow to get proper fusion, and insure a sound weld joint is being completed. And, yes, the breaking of the weld joint will indicate if your technique is correct. The configurations of the joint and the metal thickness specs., all have a starting point as to weld setting parameters. You will learn, but not in a few weeks or months.....look at years.....and your determination to be very proficient with each process. It will come....practice as much as possible. Good luck and don't hesitate to ask questions as there are many superb welders here who will pass on solutions to help you.... Denny
