Today I MIGed

[Mark One]

I tried out my MIG welder today. I've got a few questions if anyone can answer them.

I managed to sort the settings quite nicely. Nearly finished shortened 172 cat to fit on the end of my 172 manifold. Pics coming tommorrow maybe.

I'm using the mini disposable argon gas bottles. They seem to run out pretty quick, although I forgot to turn the regulator off when not using.
Is it worth getting a smallish refillable cylinder? Where from?
I decided that I got a cleaner arc when I used a grinder to make a nice shinny patch in the exhaust metal for the earth clamp. Am I just imagining it? is that necessary?
And what's the deal with welding galvanised stuff?

Cheers in advance.

 

[mr angry]

BOC or Air products will supply you with a bottle but you will need to register an account.
Migs dont like anything but clean metal.

 

[rory182]

we have un believable ball ache getting gas as required (few and far between) for work as we dont have or want an account. End up getting the lads in Indespension next door to order an extra one now and again for us.

 

[Mark One]

we have un believable ball ache getting gas as required (few and far between) for work as we dont have or want an account. End up getting the lads in Indespension next door to order an extra one now and again for us.

Why's that? I'm going to look into it I think.

Cheers for the help lads. Glad to hear it's not me imagining things with the clean metal

 

[Mark One]

Found my local AP supplier and i'll be down there tommorrow. Cheers

 

[rory182]

we have un believable ball ache getting gas as required (few and far between) for work as we dont have or want an account. End up getting the lads in Indespension next door to order an extra one now and again for us.

Why's that? I'm going to look into it I think.

Cheers for the help lads. Glad to hear it's not me imagining things with the clean metal

minimum orders are too high I think from memory and we don't use a bottle a year so don't really want to be paying monthly for something rarely used.