Welding Tips for Plate Vertical Tests

Direction

• Check to make sure which direction the weld must be applied in before beginning the test. An upwards test means the weld must be started at the bottom of the plate. A downwards test runs the weld from the top down. It is unusual for the test to ask for weld samples in both directions.

Movement

• When welding upwards, move the electrode of the stick or MIG in a small tight arc like a smile with the low point of the arc towards the bottom. Stack the arcs as the electrode builds the weld bead up but do not let the arcs overlap. With downward welds, use a zig-zag pattern making sure to keep the legs of the zig-zag touching but not overlapping.

Optimal Settings

• Plate vertical tests provide optimal work conditions for the welder so use the optimal temperature setting for a stick and ipm (inch per minute) feed setting for a MIG. Welding tests can use a variety of plate thicknesses which will affect these settings. Measure the plate thickness first and then consult the welding machine manual or gauges to find the optimal setting for the job.

Preventing Breaks

• Maintaining a continuous bead is essential to a good score on the test. Before beginning the weld, check to make sure there is nothing that could cause the welder to break the bead. Common causes for breaking the bead include running out of wire, holding the stick so hot slag will fall on the welders gloves and cause them to move to prevent burning and not having a long enough lead wire to reach the entire weld surface.