EP 195: Stacking Dimes With MIG & TIG with Alex Seibert

In this weeks episode, we’re diving deep into welding consistency as Beau Wigington chats with Alex Seibert, known on social media as @CrapOutWelds. Alex specializes in both MIG and TIG welding in the aerospace industry as well as off-road fabrication. In this episode, he shares valuable insights into dialing in perfect welds, mastering the “stacked dime” technique, and crucial fabrication tips he’s learned from years of experience across multiple industries.

Key Topics Covered:

• Alex’s Welding Journey

• How Alex got started welding at Palomar Community College.

• The origin story behind his unique username, “Crap Out Welds.”

• Achieving Consistent Welds

• Tips for mastering stacked dime welds with MIG.
  

• Why controlling your puddle (wet vs. sluggish) is critical for consistency.

• Alex’s unique MIG technique, resembling “roller coaster” cursive e’s, to achieve perfect dimes.

• The importance of rhythm and how using a metronome or music playlists could help maintain consistent weld patterns.

• TIG Techniques

• Manipulating filler rod and torch motion to perfect your TIG welds.

• Tips on pulsing your foot pedal and filler dips for consistent results.

• Fabrication Essentials

• Key skills every fabricator needs, including accurate layout and precise measuring.

• Practical clamping tools that every fabricator should have in their workshop.

• Advice for handling sheet metal and avoiding common pitfalls with thin-gauge welding.

• The importance of creating a detailed build plan to avoid fabrication mishaps.

• Strength vs. Aesthetics

• Alex discusses the debated topic of stringers vs. stacked dimes, clarifying when each is appropriate and why being proficient in both techniques is essential.
  

Memorable Quotes:

• “The best way to master welding consistency is through repetition. Keep practicing, keep asking questions, and absorb as much information as you can.” – Alex Seibert

Related Courses From The American Welding Program

• Basic Gas Tungsten Arc Welding Theory (GTAW/TIG 101) - https://foxly.link/dEyNvQ

• Basic Wire Process Welding (GMAW,FCAW)- https://foxly.link/yGkYhL 

Alex Seibert's Content & Contact:

• Instagram: @crapoutwelds https://www.instagram.com/crapoutwelds/ 

• TikTok: @crapoutwelds https://www.tiktok.com/@crapoutwelds?lang=en 

Connect with Beau Wigington

• Instagram: @beaudiditwelding https://www.instagram.com/beaudiditwelding/ 

• Email: [e-mail]

• WELD App: @beaudidit 

Download the WELD App:
https://foxly.link/b7xDzp