*This message was transferred with a trial version of CommuniGate(tm) Pro* Daniel Parrott wrote:
Intro. to Welding Tech Gas Metal Arc Welding, 1, 2, 3 and 4 levels Shielded Metal Arc Welding
OK. I want to learn how to weld. However, I think that I need to a little night school first. These six courses are offered at the local trade school. What's the difference between "Gas Metal Arc" and "Shielded Metal Arc" welding as it relates to a 120-volt home MIG welder?
De-lurking after a long spell...
In my experience, MIG (AKA GMAW) is the easiest form of welding, and if I were to have just one welding technology, that would be it. The $350-$500 120v home machines will do pretty much everything a car enthusiast needs. I encourage you to get a proper argon or CO2 setup with it, rather than just using flux core wire.
I have a Miller in that catagory, and it is completely satisfactory.
The advantage of oxy-acetelyne is that you also get the option of cutting and brazing. On the flip side, it is significantly harder to make good structural welds without affecting the surrounding material.
If you are going to do any significant amount of metalworking, you will want both.
Stick welding is pretty much for heavy stuff. TIG is for people with lots of money.
At my local community college, the welding courses were pretty open, especially to the people who took it for general interest rather than certification. The first few classes were safty and introduction to equipment, and after that you could do pretty much whatever you wanted, using any of the available technologies, getting advice from the instructor as required. If your school is anything like that, there is no reason you couldn't build your trailer in class. YMMV.
If you know an experienced welder who can show you the ropes, I wouldn't say that taking any sort of course is required. Otherwise, I would strongly recommend it, especially if you intend to weld things that peoples lives are going to depend on.
Good luck with your trailer project, it is a very cool concept. -- Email: rfm(at)collectivecomputing.com or rfm(at)portalofevil.com
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