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Choosing a Welder: MIG, TIG, Arc or Oxygen-Acetylene? - Kevin Caron
From www.kevincaron.com - Artist Kevin Caron explains how he decides which welder to use: his MIG welder, TIG welder, arc welder or oxygen-acetylene welder based on what sort of sculpture he's working on and, of course, what's most fun.
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I saw the segment on 20/20 about you. I was moved to tears by your words. I tried to teach my children to dream with their eyes open. I absolutely love your work ⛓
@KevincaronSculpture
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you!!
Thanks for stopping by. Don't forget to check out my website also.
Thank you. These are great introductions. Much appreciated!
I’m late to this channel, but I really find the content helpful!!
@KevincaronSculpture
Жыл бұрын
Welcome! Thank you for watching and posting.
My father was a master welder (40+ years of welding). From large industrial projects to body repair shop he owned later in life. He used to use oxy-acetylene for most fine projects. In the video the gentlemen states that it should be used for thicker and bigger projects, but you can get smaller nozzles for fine work as well. My father was so good with it, that he could control the heat on a flat surface and bang out a dent say in a door of a car. In other words he could get rid of the excess material from the dent by controlling heat and banging the right areas. He would also use it to weld body work on a car with it, like rusted bottoms of car doors for instance. His welds were so straight and flat that very little grinding was necessary afterwards. Because he hated bondo, only the slightest thickness of it would be necessary to provide a perfectly flat surface after the work as well. He would work really hard to make sure the surface was perfect before painting preparation. You would not be able to tell any work was done on the car after he was done with it. People would wait 2-3 years to have my father work on their car restoration projects. And after they were done they would look and last a long time, like factory new. Wish I learned more while I would sometimes help him out in the shop when I was a student.
@KevincaronSculpture
5 жыл бұрын
Your dad was a master for sure! Always had a great appreciation for guys that could do that kind of work.
As always, you guys, great info and presentation. Good point on the "one handedness" with mig. I have mig, stick, and oxy/ace and am pretty much equally inept with all three. Definitely a fun factor though! Thanks.
@Pegde Right on! I assume you are smiling when you are welding also. Just have fun and learn along the way.
I only have a MIG, flux, stick machine but I’m very new to welding. I do think think I made the right choice for my level of competence and needs, but if I was doing welding where presentation matters I think I’d learn TIG. Do you ever choose for the appearance? I can imagine there’s times as an artist where you want the pretty stack of dimes and the colours you can get with TIG. However, I can also imagine there’s times when you want the industrial look of stick welding. Another fantastic video.
@KevincaronSculpture
4 жыл бұрын
Great point! I do almost all tig anymore. If I am making a base for a big sculpture and need something heavy (1/2 inch or more) I will go to stick. My mig just sits most of the time.
What a great question!! and why didn't I think to add it to the video?!?!?! The Millermatic 252 is going for $2204.00 over at cyberweld and the Longevity MigWeld 250p is on sale for $1400.00. The Longevity comes with everything but the bottle. The Miller needs a few extras to get started. Check with your local welding store for more info. Or check with Longevity online..
I just have the choice of MIG, MMA or flux. I have been following Paul's advice from Weld.com 'MIG Monday' using flux outside and wire indoors. Someone pointed out to my flux is hotter than wire and thus wire is better for thin plate, so that’s another consideration. I’ve also started doing a lot of brazing with MAPP gas and flux which I really enjoy doing and I find it very neat looking. I don’t have the room upper body strength/movement for oxy-acetylene, I need frequent rests using my MIG. None of my work needs any tensile strength and I only do small projects, if I ever use metal over 5mm thigh I plan using stick because my welder is only 200amps. This is a brilliant video as I’ve often wondered how pros decide which method to use. You’ve given me a lot of reassurance that I’m roughly going in the right direction.
@KevincaronSculpture
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching and posting. I will keep learning every day I can. Always something new to experience.
Just watched your clip on 20/20.....how inspiring! ❤️
@KevincaronSculpture
5 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching Wendy! Don't forget to check out my website also. Lots to see over there as well.
@pberglin I would shy away from the import welds on craigslist. Just haven't heard much good about them. As for a Miller or Lincoln welder, just use your best judgement. If it looks like it has been beat with a hammer it probable has. Just try to get as big of one that you can afford and use. Don't settle for a small one when in a few months you will be looking for a bigger one.
Wow you are so underrated! Loved watching your video and it was very informative!
@KevincaronSculpture
4 жыл бұрын
Thank you !
I'm not much of a welder, but what little I have done was oxy-acetylene on thin materials from 1/8 down to tin cans. It can and does work fine given the right gear. Not necessarily better than TIG, but Oxy seems pretty precise. Size of project vs expense might seem to be the deciding factor for me.
@KevincaronSculpture
6 жыл бұрын
I have done a fair amount of oxy welding in the old days. It does work very well, just dumps a lot of heat in to the metal. But if it works for you then that's all that matters. Thanks for watching!
Hi Kevin ))) Wow... such a great set of videos! I have been welding for years, but connecting to your videos is more then learning for me your inspirational !!!! Thank you very much for these efforts - great work! Happy New Years! )))
You are looking at a smaw or arc welder got sure. Nothing beats arc for really thick metal. For cutting, yes you will need a least a 60 amp plasma for this kind of work.
All things being equal, in my opinion, I think TIG is stronger. You get more control over the heat and flow of the weld. MIG is more like a caulking gun. Just a big squirt and there you go...
Nice video, as usual. When the weather cool down I'll bring the Henrob over. Even works when there's no electricity. :-)
@spelunkerd Absolutely!! The more options you have to get the job done means you can do more jobs. Read more about the differences between Pos. and Neg. dc welding and you will find lots of ways to use this welder. Just Google Pos. and Neg. dc welding. Thanks for posting
You're welcome. So which will you choose?
thanks Kevin, great info...We'll be stepping up into our first TIG soon enough and looking to your videos for advice. Keep up the great work!
Great video
@KevincaronSculpture
3 жыл бұрын
Glad you enjoyed it
I've only got one choice for welders (flux-core MIG), but the fun factor is definitely high!
@Dicofole I would have to buy some flux core wire first. I don't use the stuff in my studio. I will add this to the list and give it a try.
For something that thin I feel TIG will be you best bet. You might try going smaller on the wire diameter on your MIG so you can turn the volts down some but I'm not hopeful on that.
I grew up using an old style Lincoln AC buzz box. Recently I had a look at newer models and I see that Lincoln sell a stick welder that can do DC or AC current, and also if offers the option to do reverse polarity DC. Would you find that DC option useful?
Thanks for sharing!
your videos are allways great. I can see how much fun welding for you is. That's fantastic. After every video what I see from you, I'll go outside and will weld anything ^^
@thedowntime1 I am assuming you are using flux core wire. You will not see any difference with the gas here. If you started using solid core wire you will see a vast improvement in the look of the weld. No chipping after to clean the weld as well as much less splatter to clean up. The gas does the same thing has the flux. It protects the new weld until it has a chance to cool. Thanks for posting....
Kevin you rock.
i just came across your videos and really like them. i just bought a Snap-on MM250SL for really cheap. it had hardly been used and included set up for tig as well and set up to do aluminum as well. I don't know much about welding but really want to learn. Your videos are helping a lot. Plus reading all i can as well. Any books you might suggest?
@KevincaronSculpture
6 жыл бұрын
No books that I know of but I can suggest a forum. Come over to Weld.com and sign up for the forum. Lots of good people and I hang out there as well. Mostly it's just getting the helmet time! Oh yeah, and watch the videos on line.
Hi Kevin, I am learning to weld cos my Land Rover body needs fixed. I can weld 1/8" steel sort of. So that I can weld 1/16" steel would I just have to alter only the voltage on my mig? And leave the wire rate as for the 1/8" stuff. I have tried every other way and can't fathom it out...
@KevincaronSculpture
4 жыл бұрын
No, voltage and wire speed have to be adjusted together for the different thicknesses.
@billybunter230
4 жыл бұрын
@@KevincaronSculpture Thanks for the speedy reply Kev. I'll give it another go later on.
I am a big fan of your videos and need some advice on a new machine. I am starting to make knives and need a plasma cutter to cut out the blanks. I am looking at the Everlast 200amp Tig Welder/50amp Plasma Cutter/Arc,Seimens IGBT, 5yr war - $875. I will be cutting thicknesses of 1/8" to 5/16". Thoughts?
@KevincaronSculpture
7 жыл бұрын
Been hearing a lot of good about this machine! Haven't had the chance to play with one but would really like to .. With the warranty I don't see anything wrong with it. Go for It!
Right On, TIG all the way👍🏻
@KevincaronSculpture
3 жыл бұрын
Always!
Another gr8 video Kevin,thanks! Just wondering...what kind of vice do you have mounted to your welding table? Looks like a quality piece.
@KevincaronSculpture
5 жыл бұрын
harbor Freight special.
I'm currently studying Sustainable Manufacturing at CSU Chico and your videos make great references anytime I need some clarification, or just want some more info. Keep up the great vidoes Kevin!
which is best for welding the ref compressor with low temperature as not to affect due to heat
@KevincaronSculpture
3 жыл бұрын
Tig or silver solder would be my guess.
Thanks for info
@KevincaronSculpture
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching and posting.
Hey kevin.. great channel and info.. I got a question.. I got a friend that offered to sell his tig machine.. is a Hobart tigwave 250.. looks like it's a Lil older... it's ac/dc.. no pulse.. it runs great he says.. are u familiar w Hobart tig.machines.. ?...how much does a used tig about that size go for..?.. thanks
@douglasalan7786
10 жыл бұрын
Pulse is completely unnecessary.HF and a pedal is really nice but also not mandatory.The man is more important than the machine ( to a point).Eboy for prices on that machine.Hobart is top notch stuff.
I was told by an old welder, that if you can oxy/acetylene weld, you can add that foot pedal and TIG weld. Maybe if a welder reads this, you could explain the reasoning, I think I've grasped the concept of it, Heat control.
@KevincaronSculpture
5 жыл бұрын
Correct. It's all about heat control. The motion of welding between the two is the same. The only real difference is you are holding a gas fed flame with oxy, and an electrical "flame" with the tig welder. But tig is better heat control in a much smaller area.
@tomthompson7400
5 жыл бұрын
if you get the basic skill set with gas welding , its a great foundation for pretty much everything else ,, at the end of the day its all the same process of melting parent metal the other thing with gas , learn to braze , not solder , but braze , it will stand you in good stead for a life time of metal work , a very useful skill to have at your finger tips ,,,,,, same as gas cutting too. and yes , ive welded gate hinges with a cutting torch and a bit of fence wire before today ,,, they dont teach that at weld school either . ,,, give it a go , its worth a giggle ,,,, remember to burn the galv off the wire before you start
@schmalzilla1985
5 жыл бұрын
@@tomthompson7400 I've been told that about brazing and soldering as well. I can see where brazing would be more beneficial to learn over soldering.
@tomthompson7400
5 жыл бұрын
@@schmalzilla1985 if you can braze ,,, you can solder ,,, but it doesn't work th other wat round ,, its getting harder to find some one to teach you these days , i learned about forty years ago , and still use the skills today .
@schmalzilla1985
5 жыл бұрын
@@tomthompson7400 I'll remember that. Thanks for the advice.
Ok I want to spend most of my time TIG welding but have some outdoor flat at steel I have to do. Should I get two units or is there one you’d recommend?
@KevincaronSculpture
4 жыл бұрын
I have become a big fan of 3 in 1 machines. I really like the Everlast PowerMTS 252STi because it gives me all 3 types of welding in one box. Tig for indoors and stick for outside in the wind. Or I can run flux core wire in the mig and use that outside instead of stick. All depends on your budget. If you want just a tig and stick machine please look at the Everlast PowerArc 160iSTH. DC tig and stick in a very little box! Thanks for watching and posting.
@blackdiamondrealty8046
4 жыл бұрын
Kevin Caron, Artist ok I ordered the MTS 221STI today. Wish me luck
Just subscribed... What would be best for something critical like a car frame or roll cage?... maybe Arc? Thanks!
@KevincaronSculpture
6 жыл бұрын
Mig would be my choice. That is what the manufactures are using.
@lawnguys2 Thanks, you pro is to come back and watch them, then Mary and I will keep making them!!!
Got a 135 mig ,,,,would it be any use to get an oxy/Acet 20llb??
@KevincaronSculpture
2 жыл бұрын
i only use my oxy/acet rig for bending. You might more use from it for cutting.
Well.... out of the two I would go with the Hobart. And I would have to ask "Are you totally sure you know what you are doing and are you willing to take this bike for the first test ride of lets say 50 miles or so?!?!" Because someone's life or hide WILL be on the line please make sure of each and every step you are doing here.
Very informative video. You covered many considerations for selection, however I wish you would've touched on the initial and operating cost aspect also. How do MIG and TIG compare in price wise?
@CBaughman What a great idea!! Fire up the way back machine Mary!!!! Stay tuned......
Kevin, If i wanted to build a heavy duty offroad vehicle to use in the back yard out of .5-1" steel sheets (due to the only way to get into the vehicle would be from the top so i was thinking thick steel to support people walking on it and to withstand abuse) Which welder would you recommend? Also for steel that thick would you recommend a Plasma Cutter?
nice video kevin keep up the good work
Most people use stick for building a pipe fence outside. Why would that be best instead of using a torch?
@KevincaronSculpture
4 жыл бұрын
Less chance of setting something on fire. Less heat distortion, easier to carry around a small welder instead of 2 heavy bottles of gas. Just a few things I could think of.
@Jeremybaland
4 жыл бұрын
@@KevincaronSculpture excellent thank you much for the response.
Can you make a video showing the difference between flux core and gas welding ? thanks
I would point you towards a MIG welder. Close to point and shoot as you can get!
Thanks Kevin i always like watching your videos I own a Hobart 120v mig but never used it with the gas what is the purpose bc it just didn't seem to make any difference? thanks
Hi, I recently posted a vid of me welding a guard for my planer, I'm a joiner not a welder, really not a welder 😆 I have a Mightymig 100amp flux core welder, I struggled to get the weld to melt in to the 3mm flat bar & 16mm round bar, Do you think a more powerful machine would help me get better welds, I've still got a lot to learn so any advise would be gratefully received , & if you get a chance to glance at my vid to see would be good, it's the most recent. Thanks, I watch all your videos so i think i already know the answer,
@KevincaronSculpture
6 жыл бұрын
Yes, a more powerful welder would have made the job much easier! And switch to solid core with gas instead of flux core.
@Gidjoiner
6 жыл бұрын
Thanks, i suspected so, It's nice to have a pro's opinion tho, 😉👍 I have to do all my welding outside because i have a dusty, wood filled joiners shop but i think an upgrade to a gas machine is my next step, esp if i want to improve my welding, Thanks, keep well 👍
In my opinion yes, A smaw welder with a spool feed instead of sticks.
Kevin, I want to fabricate a three wheeler frame out of 4130 tubing .056 thick. I own a hobart 140 mig running steelmix and hard wire. I also have a set of oxygen, acetelene tanks so I can either weld it with gas or mig. I can't afford a tig right now because I don't want another bottle lease. What would you suggest.
Great video!
Have to play with that idea... Never seem to have the copper around when I need it....
Whis is the best for car muffler mig welding or oxyactelene
@KevincaronSculpture
6 жыл бұрын
I like oxy for this job.
(Hanging my head in shame) You got me on that one.
Great Explanation. Tks.
Thank you very much for the info, love your videos I'm definitely subscribing. Keep up the outstanding work!
I think the small "flame" he referred to on the tig setup is called an arc.
Hey Kevin, I've been trying to weld some small art projects out of 22ga or thinner. I have a 220 mig but it just blows holes through it. Which choice would you recommend?
how long is a coat hanger?
@KevincaronSculpture
10 ай бұрын
I think they are about 36 inches long.
For me really good i am cool with this Thanks Man
Im going to get an oxi accetaline rig because I don't have the money to get a MIG or TIG rig. I won't arc weld so the dont need an arc welder. All I need it for is welding billots together and putting handles on them so I can forge them. I need to fix my aluminim boat too but I can do that with a map.gas torch.
@KevinCaronartist
9 жыл бұрын
Yes they do!
@TheDadPenfield
7 жыл бұрын
stizan24 Oxyacetylene welding is not cheap. You have to consider the oxygen and acetylene tanks and the cost of gas. That will place it well above the cost of a cheap mig welder and about the same cost as say a Lincoln 140. You can weld aluminum with oxy-acetylene, but it is not easy. If you are going to get an Oxy-acetylene torch, don't get it for welding unless you are a jeweler. Get if for cutting thicker metal, heating, or brazing. The cheapest welder would be an AC stick welder. For aluminum you should probably go with a MIG welder. It is as cheap as oxyacetylene and much easier to learn and use.
@stizan24
7 жыл бұрын
I got a small mig unit. It works well for what I need it for.
@KevinCaronartist
7 жыл бұрын
I agree about cost. You can get an Everlast Power i-MIG 140E for $380.
How to Weld Together a Copper with pipes glass?
@jorgeduran8214
6 жыл бұрын
R
@KevincaronSculpture
6 жыл бұрын
Sorry, not sure what you are asking for?
If it was my motorcycle I would use TIG. Remember it's your butt that will hit the road first...
If you want more chalange and master of welding choose arc.
@KevincaronSculpture
2 жыл бұрын
I do a little stick when the need hits. I do like the smell of rod burning in the morning!
@stefanm5636
2 жыл бұрын
@@KevincaronSculpture Thank you for your responce on my comment sir. I watched nearly every your video about welding and I learned a lot, Thank you very much for sharing your experience with us. 7018 rods are amazing, short arc, and drag angle, I struggle with 6013 electrodes. Here in Europe we use 6013 rutile celulosic (RC) electrodes for everything, but I am not sure that composition of rod is same like in US. I have small request, can you make video about difrence between US and Europe electrodes.
Do ya MiG it? Do you TIG it? Do you arc it? Do you Stick it?
@KevincaronSculpture
2 жыл бұрын
Questions I ask every day!
That's all depends from current. All other is minor difficulties... Current of wallet...
@KevincaronSculpture
3 жыл бұрын
Money is normally the main reason for just about everything.
@alexk2418
3 жыл бұрын
@@KevincaronSculpture . Part my, just some technical difficulties.(in life, I mean 😂✌️) "Maney is everything... If you shallow as toilet water." I would normally say. Maney can't make loving your job... No many can change that. For average Joe, many is one big obstacle to start. On other side, many can't buy expiration, can't buy real passion. And some other things... In some jobs maybe yes. But not those, when need hands and "soul". Have some ideas, but majority of them, demand funds... So I do baby steps, hopefully I get there before 60... 20 years to go. (Love watching your channel. Just every aspect of what, and how you do it. )
sounds like Kermit!
Audio!! Hard to listen to this but it's great info so thanks. Just fix the audio by using a microphone and not the little toy built into the camera.
@KevincaronSculpture
7 жыл бұрын
Old video, Audio all fixed now. Thanks for watching.
Have never done a sword. Would be interesting to give it a try. Look on my site for my contact number and give me a call.
I like the explanetions, a good question would be: "What's the best method for absolute beginners(AKA dummies)"
@xcaliberr05
6 жыл бұрын
Check out Welding for Dummies. Yes its an actual book and a lot of good info in it
I always just go with bubblegum and duct tape
@KevincaronSculpture
Жыл бұрын
Day old oatmeal seems to work pretty well.
@ryananthony4840
Жыл бұрын
@@KevincaronSculpture lmao
Sorry, i try most times not to be youtube critic, thanks for the video sir :)
I will give you a stack of $3.00 dollar bills for every one you find!!
all electric welding is arc welding!!!! stick is arc welding but arc welding is everything electric not just stick!