Stainless Steel Wire Settings: A Comprehensive Guide to .035 Wire
Introduction
When it comes to welding, having the right settings for your equipment is crucial for achieving high-quality results. In this article, we will focus on the .035 stainless steel wire settings, a popular choice among welders. We will cover the optimal settings for various welding processes, applications, and equipment to help you get the best out of your welding machine.
MIG Welding Settings
Current and Voltage Settings
For MIG welding with .035 stainless steel wire, the recommended current and voltage settings vary depending on the thickness of the material being welded. Here are some general guidelines:
- Thin materials (18 gauge and thinner):
- Current: 40-60 amps
- Voltage: 16-18 volts
- Medium materials (16-14 gauge):
- Current: 60-80 amps
- Voltage: 18-20 volts
- Thick materials (12 gauge and thicker):
- Current: 80-100 amps
- Voltage: 20-22 volts
Wire Feed Speed
The wire feed speed also plays a critical role in achieving optimal results. Here are some recommended wire feed speeds for .035 stainless steel wire:
- Short circuit transfer: 100-150 inches per minute (ipm)
- Globular transfer: 150-200 ipm
- Spray transfer: 200-250 ipm
TIG Welding Settings
Current and Voltage Settings
For TIG welding with .035 stainless steel wire, the recommended current and voltage settings are:
- Pulse current: 50-100 amps
- Background current: 10-20 amps
- Voltage: 10-15 volts
Electrode Angle and Travel Speed
The electrode angle and travel speed also affect the quality of the weld. Here are some recommended settings:
- Electrode angle: 10-20 degrees
- Travel speed: 6-12 inches per minute (ipm)
Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) Settings
Current and Voltage Settings
For FCAW with .035 stainless steel wire, the recommended current and voltage settings are:
- Current: 150-250 amps
- Voltage: 22-28 volts
Shielding Gas
The shielding gas used in FCAW welding can affect the quality of the weld. The recommended shielding gas for .035 stainless steel wire is:
- CO2: 75-90%
- Argon: 10-25%
Conclusion
In conclusion, the optimal settings for .035 stainless steel wire depend on the welding process, material thickness, and equipment used. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can achieve high-quality welds and improve your overall welding experience. Remember to always refer to your equipment's user manual and follow safety guidelines when welding.
