Steel frame cnc router design/build

[CraftyGeek]

Thanks chaps - adding a chamfer to the edges could be an option. I'm off work on Friday - I think i'll take a trip to the steel yard & see if I can get some scrap, then have a play with a few different approaches.

[mekanik]

Just a pity you didn't have a TIG setup, all you do then is strike the arc wait to get your pool and advance the torch, it make a very clean weld.

[JAZZCNC]

I wouldn't go running full welds round the edges if they are only for decoration and capping purposes. There will be a lot of heat generated for those welds and you want to keep heat to minimum.

Just chamfer the 4 corners and tack weld into place they will be more than stronger enough.

If you must fully weld then just chamfer the edges. If your on your own with no one to hold then buy some cheap magnet clamps to help.

Edit: Gytis . . if your still reading this then go check your email ASAP please.!!

[CraftyGeek]

Thanks Jazz - that kind of backs up my first thought.

Another quick Q on the welding front - how much cleaning do you do before welding new mild steel?
I've been searching & keep seeing hugely conflicting opinions - just a quick wire brush & then good to go?

[JAZZCNC]

Another quick Q on the welding front - how much cleaning do you do before welding new mild steel?
I've been searching & keep seeing hugely conflicting opinions - just a quick wire brush & then good to go?

Well with stick welder then not critical has other forms like Mig-tig etc but still the better you clean the easier it will be to strike up and get good weld.
Just a quick whip over grind or flat wheel is enough just to remove any rust spots etc.

[CraftyGeek]

So it turns out that welding is quite tricky to master...who'd a thunk?...more practice & video watching required!

At least pillar drill tests with 10mm steel went smoothly - very happy drilling the stuff, but need some new taps.

[JAZZCNC]

So it turns out that welding is quite tricky to master...who'd a thunk?...more practice & video watching required

Keep trying and it will click and don't get too stressed if your welds don't match those you see on the videos. Even pigeon shity looking will hold more than you realise. Weld 2 pieces together and then try to break the joint you'll be surprised how much effort it takes even with crap looking welds.!!

[mekanik]

If i were you i would try just putting a prep on the box section, leave the end caps with square edge, then when you lay down your weld you won't(hopefully) melt the outer edge of the blank and it will look a lot better, i am fortunate as i have TIG so can just fuse the two together.
Regards
Mike