How to Weld an Iron Railing

Iron railings are used to decorate and provide safety for houses and businesses. Constant exposure to weather conditions can cause the iron to rust and eventually break free. Broken railing bars can be sharp and cause harm to someone who grabs onto them. Arc-welding is an inexpensive way to repair iron railings. An arc welding machine can either be purchased or rented from tool stores or home building supply stores.

Arc welder
Electrodes
Welding helmet
Insulated gloves
Clamps
Wire brush
Shop towel

Instructions

- 1
  Clean the area on both pieces of railing that will be welded. Use a wire brush to break off any dirt and rust. Wipe the residue away with a shop towel.
- 2
  Clamp the loose iron railing to the part it will be welded to. If clamps can't be used, tack-weld the piece in place with the electrode by gently tapping the area where both pieces are being welded together.
- 3
  Attach the ground cable to the work area with the alligator clip at the end of the cable. Turn the arc welder on and set it to the desired amperage.
- 4
  Put on a welding helmet and insulated gloves. Move to the area that is being welded and position the electrode at a 15-degree angle perpendicular to the mating surface of the iron railing.
- 5
  Begin the welding process by creating a weld pool at the beginning of the weld. A weld pool is a puddle of melted metal that will form once the electrical arc from the electrode begins to heat the metal.
- 6
  Drag the weld pool along the length of the welding area. Continue along the path until the weld is complete.
- 7
  Allow the railing to cool then clean the weld seam with the wire brush. The weld seam can be painted if desired.

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