How to Weld Different Gauge Metals
- 1). Find two pieces of scrap metal that are the same gauges as the metal you're welding for your project.
- 2). Adjust the settings of the wire speed on your welding torch for the thicker piece of metal. Each welding torch will have different recommendations for settings. Since you're using scrap metal first, you can test a few settings if necessary.
- 3). Clamp the thick piece of scrap metal to your work surface.
- 4). Put on your safety gear, including gloves and a welding mask. Direct the flame of the welding torch to the thicker gauge scrap metal that you clamped down. Test to see if the metal will melt. If it doesn't, turn up the settings slightly and try again.
- 5). Unclamp the thick metal. Turn it to a different side and place the thinner piece on top to create a seam. Using the same settings, direct the welding torch toward the seam. This is to ensure the settings on the welding torch will provoke melting without damaging the thinner metal.
- 6). Take away the scrap metal and replace it with the two pieces of metal you want to weld once you find the right settings for both gauges. Layer the metal so that the thicker gauge lies on top of the thinner gauge to create the seam.
- 7). Direct the welding torch toward the thicker gauge metal. Move along the metal as it melts and welds onto the thinner piece. Once you reach the bottom of the seam, the thicker gauge will be welded onto the thinner gauge beneath it.
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