[cmarkellc]

I know when you're going too fast, it's not laying a good bead, undercut appears and trapping slag; but how can you tell that your going too slow when you need to pick up the paste? How can you tell that the puddle is too big?

[wheresmejumper]

The weld profile is low and wide

[Mike]

Welcome to the forum.

[DLewis0289]

It's all about the puddle......Different rods weld a little differently so I will speak to the crowd favorite 7018. The puddle should be uniform and consistent. Flat position........if your puddle is elongated and skinny you are going to fast, if the puddle is fat and short (or hard to distinguish) going to slow ....Of course bigger rod, bigger puddle, but consistent in shape.

Jody is not only a master welder, he is also a tremendous camera man and producer. Watch his videos and look at the puddle, that is what it is supposed to look like.

A lot of young guys get so caught up in vertical up with, pause at the sides and don't hang out in the middle, (which is the correct advice) they seem to forget there is a puddle following....kind of need to train your eyes and brain to see where you are going and where you have been. I am constantly looking at puddle shape on vertical up, (stringers and the big bad weave) as the piece heats up, or something changes I am adjusting myself to keep that puddle consistent and also know when to "bail out" and drink a sip of coffee and do a re-start if need be.

[thatoneguy]

Just look at your bead when youre done. Compare it to beads done by the more experienced welders. Adjust accordingly. Watching the puddle and knowing what to look for just comes with practice.

[cmarkellc]

Oh ok I appreciate the advice. Maybe I should look very carefully at how Jody lays down beads.

[thatoneguy]

Oh ok I appreciate the advice. Maybe I should look very carefully at how Jody lays down beads.

Do that. But try to focus on the details not just watching him weld. The little things are what separate good welds from great welds.

[ldbtx]

Oh ok I appreciate the advice. Maybe I should look very carefully at how Jody lays down beads.

Watching Jody's videos, especially how he controls and handles the puddle, is IMO the best thing you can do to improve your welding, except getting more seat time. And your seat time practice will be improved by the knowledge you've gained from the videos.

[cmarkellc]

I'll do that, definitely. I appreciate all of the replies for support....