Welded bliss!

Last month we looked at the different welding processes within reach of the amateur and talked about my experience when I joined the evening welding course at my local place of learning, Peterborough Regional College.

I chose to learn the TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) process. Some other people on the course chose TIG, but the majority opted for MIG (Metal Inert Gas). After 36 hours of tuition and practice I finished the course being able to produce acceptable welds in mild steel, stainless steel and, to a lesser extent, in aluminium.

Welding, like any skill, needs plenty of practice if you are going to be even moderately good. Hands-on courses, YouTube and books will only get so far. You need your own kit and plenty of scrap steel to practise on! Let’s assume then that you’ve learnt the basics and decided to invest in some kit. What should you get?

MIG

For most people MIG is the best bet,