Need some tips on welding sheet metal to 3/8 plate

[performance]

I'd use 3/32 6013 or 7014 for this. Run about 70-80 amps, fairly quickly, but not too quick. Weave a little if you like.

[ogorir]

I don't have much stick experience, but I welded the top on my table (14ga) with 3/32 7018AC at about 85a with little trouble. 14ga isn't really 'thin' as for as sheet goes, so it's a lot more forgiving than you're expecting it to be.

what sean said is good advice, though. you only want to weld about 1" long beads every few inches or you'll warp the plate. something else you may want to consider is putting some square tubing across the other direction to support the plate if you're going any more than 2 or 3 feet. 3/8" is fairly thick, but it's still just plate and it will flex.

[Haywire]

I had planned on welding 3 pieces of 1/4"x2" flat stock on edge length wise down the underside of the table for stiffeners. One about 3" in from each edge and one down the middle.

thanks for the advice,
Ian

[SeanMurphy265]

That sounds like a good idea, that would give you more strength and something to weld to. I've looked at those legs at Northern Tool and been thinking about building a table using them as well. Post some pics when you are done!

[Haywire]

Will do, but it will be a bit I expect. There's a few irons in the fire. I have a couple leads on acquiring the plate, but haven't followed up on them yet.

Ian

[SeanMurphy265]

Will do, but it will be a bit I expect. There's a few irons in the fire. I have a couple leads on acquiring the plate, but haven't followed up on them yet.

Ian

If you have a scrap yard close by, lots of time steel companies will have drops and sell them for scrap.