"Test pipe" welding

[jakeru]

I welded an automotive "test pipe" for a customer today. It was 2" tubing with probably about .065" wall thickness. It had clamped together slip joints, some of which were leaking exhaust gas. I just welded the slip joints together (fillet welds.)

One piece was galvanized coated mild steel, another piece looked like aluminized coated mild steel, and the two end pieces were some kind of stainless steel (according to the customer.) Perfect case for 309L stainless filler rod.

I was brought the assembly clamped in exact position it needed to be, so I didn't disturb the clamps or try to prep inside of the slip fit joint, but a cup brush did pretty well to prep the visible surfaces. I know there was a lot of junk (oxidation and soot) in between the slip joint that I didn't remove, but it actually TIG welded much more nicely than I was expecting.

With the assembly welded, the clamps are unnecessary and will be removed by the customer. I used some low frequency pulsing to reduce heat input.

Prepped:
Attachment 1258

Attachment 1257

Welded:
Attachment 1259

Attachment 1260