Anything welding

I have not seen dig settings since when I started welding on the old transformer/ rectifier Tig machines in school in the seventies.

Just what sort of advantage do you seem to gain from using that?

 

Like I said, it’s a gucci feature. You don’t “need” it.

I just have a a few mediocre multiprocess machines that have it.
It helps auto adjust (increase) the amps as voltage drops (arc too short) to keep the amperage up and keep the arc from going out when you’re close to the work. Essentially, the machine helps do what you’re suppose to be doing as a welder.

That said, it’s helpful on pipe (like open root) to keep the rod from sticking. It’s like a hot start but for voltage and while actively welding.

 

This would help the constant Current and Constant Voltage machines play well together in one machine.

I think the Airco Dip Pak machines had a Dig control.

 

You’ll know for sure. Older machine will have a dedicated knob. It’ll say arc force or dig. My digital machines just say dig…probably because it’s easier than spelling it out on the digital display. Haha

example;

 

Just a small order, really the only work I've done all weekend and it was done within minutes



I'm always using the built-in cut feature for quickly slicing my sheets into smaller pieces for scrap and recycling



Easy 75lbs give or take

 

Can’t remember who it was that was needing a solution for rolling/bending bar stock
But
This might be a solution

https://youtu.be/4ABPH1QQK-E

 

@Kwikvette was looking to bend 1/2" round bar stock.

 

Super cool but way too much work

The bend needed would require a much smaller radius though, not to mention only for like 2-3 more jobs.

I'll end up using my vise and heat again.

 

That YouTube is a wealth of info for future endeavors though

 

Made this for my nephew. He AND his wife have 600+hp Camaros. Sign is pretty plain, but that's the official ZL1 logo.

One thing I wanted to pass along. I have been disappointed with the output of the LED strip lights. On this sign I used my flap wheel to rough the backplate then clear coated it. The extra diffusion of the light really made a difference.
In the dark:


Lights on:


You can see the scuff marks. Definitely helped bring it to life.

 

ah, optics/diffusion. i've spent years going down that rabbit hole.

in that signs case, i would've gone with 4 led strips--all horizontal, above, below, and between the lettering, stuck to the back of the front piece, and firing backwards into the sanded backer.

if you're looking for more unique backlighting, you'll eventually end up looking through 'lenticular films'.

these 2 sampler packs are a great start:
https://www.eplastics.com/home-office/decorative-ceiling/rowlux-illusion-film/SAMPLE-ROWLUX

this is perhaps a simpler diffuser option-- many 2'x4' sheets of these are available at hardware stores:
https://www.eplastics.com/lighting-diffusers/egg-crate/Sample-pack-of-lighting-diffuser-panels

otherwise, if you're looking for a smooth/even backlight, it all starts with tv backlights. take apart an old tv, there's a diffuser layer(usually a 1/4" thick plexiglass panel with frosted dots all over it) at the back with a white reflective sheet, then a few sheets of a different type of lenticular film to further obscure and even out the light. the films they use can't be purchased in small quantities, so tv's are still one of the easiest places to get them. the above links is the only place i've been able to source lenticular films outside of salvage tv's.

 

I finished painting this one in my Indiana Colleges series. I hate the taping and painting. I screw something up every time!

BTW, that's just my shirt reflecting in the bottom half of the sign.

 

Just got to the bottom of my flap wheel stack. Need to order more.

Anything new on the market that can be recommended?

Thanks in advanced

Kirk

 

I buy the Benchmark Abrasive packs from Amazon but they do go pretty quick when I really need to get rid of some material

 

Not that I know of.Then I have not really looked.

But my Go to vendor moved to Grand Rapids Mi a few years ago.

Lehigh Valley Abrasives I can only say I had great Customer Service decent prices been a few years.

If I was going to make a stocking order it would be to them.

 

I tried those a bit ago. They went too fast.

 

I'll search them out. I've been aware of them for some time, but never bought.

 

I used to deal in person before the move.

Just about anything you want at a good price.

 

I really like the threaded versions that just spin on, less time changing pads.

Otherwise I really feel like they're all the same

 

Like most products one gets what you pay for.

if your really into have duty grinding like in those first few months or years.

The Norton Norzon plus 4 1/2" x1/4"x 7/8" are by far the best grinding discs for heavy duty grinding .

Use the right disc for the job . Sort of like tires do you want super good traction or long wearing. Fast stock removal or a disc that lasts forever and takes forever .

I seldom use these any more just a different flap discs depending on material.