Sparx Welding Academy

08/05/2026

When weaving a 6010/6011 in a vertical weld one tell tale sign of overheating is widening of your puddle. You can usually see it when you whip back down into the puddle and cross to the opposite toe. If you see it happening, stop, adjust your machine down 5 amps, let it cool for a minute or two then restart. Don't forget to feather your stop!

08/05/2026

Remember! Preparation is where you win and lose when it comes to good quality welds. Always feather out starts and stops on your roots. It's key to a proper quality tie-in on most all stick root passes. There are exceptions, but if you are first starting out, this is how they should be done.

08/04/2026

Running open root, square butt joints using 1/4" angle. This is a great introduction to open root welding and gets you going faster than having to bevel tons of practice material. After students can lay down a good root on the square butt then it's time to move on to bevels! Just one of the many exercises we work here at Sparx Welding Academy!

08/04/2026

Got our first sets of Benchmark Abrasives flapwheels in! Ordered a mixed pack of 10 ceramic flap wheels and a mixed pack of 10 zirconia flap wheels. These things make fast easy work of cleanup on a weld joint! They come with pretty cool stickers too!

08/04/2026

Do ypu use dry runs while wwlding? Dry runs are an important step in making sure you are ready to weld. It will help you determine work angle, travel angle, hand and body position and ensure the have enough room to keep proper technique throughout your weld! This is also how I introduce students to groove/open root welding.

07/30/2026

Always watch your travel angle, especially when running vertical stick. Changing your travel angle can significantly change the size of your puddle. Increasing the size of the puddle as you weld uphill can have consequences for heat and puddle control and ultimately cause issues!

07/26/2026

If an 11 year old can learn to do it, so can you! Are you or someone you know interested in learning to weld? Reach out to Sparx Welding Academy today to get started! Call 502-547-6527 or email at: [email protected]!

An 11-year-old West Virginia student is pursuing a welding certification through Marshall Advanced Technology.

07/26/2026