Welding Safety Tips
When it comes to metal fusion, safety is always important, especially since you will be working with high temperatures. Since welding and fabrication jobs are dangerous, especially to those that are new to the craft, you are better off hiring a professional welder to do the task for you. However, if you are motivated to do the welding repair and fabrication job on your own, you need to ensure that you practice the standard safety protocols when it comes to metal fusion. Here are some safety tips if you are a beginner welder:
Wear the Proper Safety Gear
When it comes to fabrication and welding, you will need to wear more protective gear compared to other jobs such as construction or brickwork. For starters, you will need a good welding mask to start. There are two main types of welding masks, and these are the manual and automatic masks. Manual masks allow you to change the welding shades regularly. Automatic welding masks are best suited for beginners since they have an automatic shade feature that activates when you start the welding arc. Since you will also be working with angle grinders or cutting tools, make sure to get something to protect your face while performing these tasks. You will also need a welding apron that is made from high-quality cow leather to protect your entire body, as well as safety shoes to protect your feet from flying sparks.
Setting the Machine
If this is your first time operating a welding machine, you need to make sure that you are setting it to the correct settings. Too much amperage can cause holes and cracks, while too little amperage will not cause any metal fusion at all. Before welding the surface that you are going to weld, get a practice piece first, and check set the welding machine at the correct electric current that you are going to use. The amperage may vary depending on where you are working. For colder temperatures, you might want to amp the settings a bit. Also, you need to make sure that you set the machine on the proper current modifier; and these are the DC and AC settings. Consult the welding rod box on the proper electric current settings.
If you think that all of these are too complicated for you to do on your own, it is best that you hire a professional like Jaime's Mobile Welding Services to do the task for you. Call me today at (951) 228-0798. I am based in Riverside, CA.