[EschObfus]

I'm looking to jump into welding and metal fabricating here in the future. From what I've looked at SMAW seems like the best welding method to start out with and learn on. I'm specifically hoping to be able to fabricate some sliders and bumpers (fingers crossed). Is there any particular welder than any here have used and would recommend? Do you agree that SMAW would be the best place to start?

I am also looking at pipe benders, specifically:
Harbor Freight Tools - Quality Tools at the Lowest Prices
It seems like this style of bender would cause deformation of the pipe. Does anyone know whether it would cause deformation (significant or otherwise)? What type of bender would give me a smooth and unkinked bend?

As far as notching pipe for intersection:
G8686 Pipe/Tube Notcher
Is this a good way to go when notching steel tube?

I'm still reading up on all this stuff, so I appreciate any input.

Thanks ladies and gents!
-Dave

 

[EschObfus]

Bumpanyinput?

 

[NCFJ]

I have the Grizzly tube notcher and it has worked well for me. I also have a similar pipe bender. The bender flatens out the exterior of the bend and if pushed too far can kink the inside of a bend. Filling the tube with sand and heating it prior to bending does help. Down side is you need to spend around $1,000 to get a decent bender and dies for it.

 

[VegasDlr]

Check with BellyDoc, the fabricator extraordinaire. He should be able to give you some good advice on equipment.

 

[EschObfus]

I have the Grizzly tube notcher and it has worked well for me. I also have a similar pipe bender. The bender flatens out the exterior of the bend and if pushed too far can kink the inside of a bend. Filling the tube with sand and heating it prior to bending does help. Down side is you need to spend around $1,000 to get a decent bender and dies for it.

I figured there would be some deformation. When you say too far do you mean greater than 90 degrees? When you fill with the tube with sand, is there an special method to cap off the ends of the pipe and keep the sand compacted? I'm guessing there is more distortion on thinner walled pipe of greater outer diameter. 1k would hurt pretty badly. I'm trying to get the most bang for the buck, but I suppose you do get what you pay for. Thanks for the help, mucho appreciato!

Check with BellyDoc, the fabricator extraordinaire. He should be able to give you some good advice on equipment.

Yea, I was going through his buildup thread. A good amount(understatement) of fabricating going on there. I might have to jump into the "Ask Bellydoc" thread.