Weld Support Parts Blog

Tag: fabrication tools

  • Steel Welding Table, Strong Hand Nomad TS3020 (Review)

    Steel Welding Table, Strong Hand Nomad TS3020 (Review)

    The Strong Hand Nomad TS3020 is one of the most versatile budget welding tables available. Instead of a fixed plate with a fixturing hole grid, the Nomad uses 28 mm (1.1″) wide slotted steel plates, adjustable height, angle tilting, retractable guide rails, and rolling casters — making it ideal for hobby welders, light fabrication, and mobile workstations.

    Below is a full breakdown of build quality, usability, rigidity, and how it compares to cheaper stamped-steel folding tables.

    Key Takeaways

    • 28 mm slotted tabletop supports clamping, squaring, and part positioning.
    • Adjustable height and tilt (0°, 30°, 90°) improve access and ergonomics.
    • Casters + leveling foot make it easy to roll, park, and stabilize.
    • Retractable guide rails help with repeatable positioning and part alignment.
    • Best for MIG/TIG/light fabrication, not heavy hammering or large weldments.

    Where to Buy

    Amazon
    Strong Hand Tools Nomad TS3020 —

    Steel Welding Table, 1.1″ (28mm) Tabletop Slots, Adjustable Angle & Height, Casters, Retractable Guide Rails, Eccentric Leveling Foot, TS3020
    Steel Welding Table, 1.1″ (28mm) Tabletop Slots, Adjustable Angle & Height, Casters, Retractable Guide Rails, Eccentric Leveling Foot, TS3020
    • Three 1. 1″ (28mm) slots in the tabletop allow for insertion of clamps to reach any point on the table.
    • Tabletop tilts to three positions: Horizontal, 30°, and folded for mobility.
    • Two retractable, perpendicular steel guide rails can be used as guides, stops, or clamping edges.
    • Affordable, convenient welding and work table for the welding shop or home shop
    • Tabletop height can be adjusted from 26″ to 32″ (660 – 810 mm).
    $105.00 Amazon Prime
    Buy on Amazon

    Last update on 2025-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

    Overview

    The Strong Hand Nomad is built as a flexible, portable welding station for small shops and home fabricators who want more capability than a folding table without jumping to a high-cost precision plate.

    Key features include:

    • 30″ × 20″ approx. working area
    • Height adjustment: 26″–32″
    • Angle adjustment: flat / 30° / 90°
    • Three steel slats with 28 mm gaps for clamps and locking pliers
    • Built-in rails that flip up or down for stops, alignment, or material control

    It’s targeted at welders who need mobility, quick setup, and practical clamping options — not a precision fixturing grid.

    Build Quality & Construction

    Tabletop

    • Three-piece steel slat surface, spaced with 1.1“ (28 mm) slots
    • Supports standard locking pliers, C-clamps, F-clamps, and slot-style accessories
    • Slots allow slag to drop and improve airflow during welding

    Frame & Legs

    • Powder-coated steel
    • Adjustable height driven by a pin-and-sleeve system
    • Angle tilt mechanism is solid for the price but not for high-weight loads

    Mobility & Leveling

    • Two casters for rolling
    • One eccentric leveling foot to lock the table down during welding

    Strength & Capacity

    • Suitable for:
      • Light frame fabrication
      • Small assemblies
      • Brackets and hobby projects
    • Not built for:
      • Heavy beating/hammering
      • Large straightening jobs
      • High-load structural work

    Performance in the Shop

    Clamping & Setup

    Slots allow versatile clamping angles and creative fixturing. Rails help repeat work without dedicated tooling.

    Flatness

    Good enough for typical hobby and light fabrication tasks.
    Not comparable to a BuildPro or precision-machined plate.

    Portability

    Easily moved around a small shop — one-person maneuvering is normal.

    Heat Handling

    Handles MIG and TIG without issues. Avoid:

    • Heavy carbon-arc gouging
    • Very high amperage preheat processes

    Comparison: Nomad TS3020 vs. Low-End Folding Tables

    FeatureNomad TS3020 Low-End Folding Tables (Hobart/generic)
    SurfaceSteel slats w/ 28 mm slotsThin stamped steel
    ClampingClamps through slats; guide railsMinimal / limited
    AdjustabilityHeight + tilt (0°, 30°, 90°)None
    MobilityCasters + leveling footFixed legs
    RigidityModerateLow
    Best ForLight fab, welding setupsOccasional hobby use

    If you need flexible work angles and real clamping options, the Nomad is dramatically more capable.

    Best Uses

    • MIG/TIG hobby fabrication
    • Light frame assembly
    • Small brackets
    • Prep work, layout, and tool setup
    • On-site/mobile welding

    Not ideal for:

    Heavy hammering, structural beams, engine stand repairs, or high-load fixturing.

    Safety Notes

    • Use ANSI Z87.1 eye protection when adjusting clamps or locking mechanisms.
    • Keep slats free of slag and spatter to maintain grounding continuity.
    • Stabilize the table with the leveling foot before welding.
    • Always attach your welding ground to the workpiece or a dedicated lug.

    FAQ

    Is the Nomad TS3020 a good first welding table?
    Yes — excellent for beginners who need adjustability and clamping slots.

    Can it replace a precision fixturing table?
    No. It’s for light fabrication, not precision assemblies.

    Does it accept 5/8″ or 16 mm fixturing tools?
    No. This is a slotted table, not a hole-grid system.

    Is it stable enough for heavier work?
    Light to moderate only; not for heavy hammering.

    Sources Checked

    • Strong Hand Tools TS3020 product materials
    • Manufacturer angle/height specs
    • Slot sizing and rail mechanism documentation

  • 730 Spark Lighter vs. 3001 Spark Lighter: Which One Should You Use in the Shop?

    730 Spark Lighter vs. 3001 Spark Lighter: Which One Should You Use in the Shop?

    Spark lighters are one of the simplest tools in the welding environment, but they’re also the ones that fail at the worst times. The GC Fuller 730 and the standard 3001-style lighter are two of the most common flint strikers used across fabrication, field service, and shop welding.
    This guide compares durability, spark output, ergonomics, and cost so you know which one fits your workflow.

    Key Takeaways

    • 730 spark lighters last longer, feel sturdier, and produce more consistent sparks under daily shop use.
    • 3001 spark lighters are cheaper and lighter but have weaker build quality and shorter flint life.
    • Both accept standard flints, but the 730 holds up better in dirty/heavy-use welding environments.
    • For high-frequency torch lighting (O/A, cutting torches), the 730 is the safer pick.

    Where to Buy

    GC Fuller 730 FU Spark Lighter (Arc Weld Store)
    GC Fuller 730 FU Lighter and 5 Flints

    GC Fuller 730 FU Lighter and 5 Flints

    $24.42

    In Stock

    View Product
    “>
    GC Fuller 730 FU Lighter and 5 Flints

    GC Fuller 730 FU Lighter and 5 Flints

    $24.42

    In Stock

    View Product

    3001 Spark Lighter (Arc Weld Store)
    Weldmark by Shurlite Round File Single Flint Spark Lighter, Pack of (10)

    Weldmark by Shurlite Round File Single Flint Spark Lighter, Pack of (10)

    $43.89

    In Stock

    View Product
    “>
    Weldmark by Shurlite Round File Single Flint Spark Lighter, Pack of (10)

    Weldmark by Shurlite Round File Single Flint Spark Lighter, Pack of (10)

    $43.89

    In Stock

    View Product

    Amazon Options (Disclosure: affiliate links):
    730 FU Lighter —

    GC Fuller 730 FU Lighter and 5 Flints
    GC Fuller 730 FU Lighter and 5 Flints
    • It is constructed using a round cup design, and allows the user to replace the flint when necessary, with our renewal flint
    • Triple-flint lighter is a quality lighter made for the demands of the welding industry
    • It has a strong frame and with three large flints for dependable ignition under all working conditions
    • Allows user to replace flint when necessary
    • Strong frame and rugged design
    $19.99 Amazon Prime
    Buy on Amazon

    Last update on 2025-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


    3001 Lighter —
    Shurlite Round File Single Flint Spark Lighter, 10 Per Box [Set of 10]
    Shurlite Round File Single Flint Spark Lighter, 10 Per Box [Set of 10]
    $43.89
    Buy on Amazon

    Last update on 2025-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

    How Each Lighter Works

    Both tools use a steel file wheel, spring tension, and replaceable flints to generate sparks for igniting oxy-fuel torches. The differences come from spring tension, wheel quality, frame strength, and spark consistency.

    GC Fuller 730 Spark Lighter

    Key Specs (Manufacturer):

    • Style: Triple-arm flint striker
    • Frame: Heavy-gauge steel
    • Flint Type: Standard cylindrical
    • Includes: Lighter + 5 flints
    • Durability: High
    • Spark Output: Strong, consistent
    • Best For: Shops, daily O/A work, field service

    Pros

    • Strong spring tension = reliable ignition
    • Thicker frame resists bending
    • “Triple arm” design gives more spark exposure
    • Flints last longer due to better wheel contact
    • Easier to use with gloves

    Cons

    • Slightly heavier than economy lighters
    • Higher cost upfront than 3001-type lighters

    3001 Spark Lighter

    Key Specs (General/Industry Standard):

    • Style: Generic triple-arm striker
    • Frame: Thin stamped steel
    • Flint Type: Standard cylindrical
    • Durability: Medium/Low
    • Spark Output: Adequate but less consistent
    • Best For: Occasional use or low-budget setups

    Pros

    • Very affordable
    • Lightweight
    • Uses universal flints

    Cons

    • Springs weaken faster
    • Frame bends with moderate abuse
    • Spark wheel tends to wear quicker
    • More “missed sparks” compared to the 730

    Head-to-Head Comparison

    FeatureGC Fuller 7303001 Spark Lighter
    Build QualityHeavy-duty steelThin stamped steel
    Spark ConsistencyHighMedium
    Flint LifeLongerShorter
    Wheel LifeLongerModerate
    Field DurabilityStrong (preferred)Weak
    Ease With GlovesGoodModerate
    PriceHigherLower

    Which One Should You Buy?

    Choose the GC Fuller 730 if:

    • You weld daily
    • You run oxy-fuel cutting
    • You want a striker that lasts months, not weeks
    • You hate lighters bending in your pocket
    • You want consistent one-strike ignition

    Choose the 3001 if:

    • You need a cheap backup
    • You only use torches occasionally
    • Durability isn’t a priority

    For most welders — especially in fabrication shops — the 730 is the clear winner.

    Safety Notes

    • Always follow OSHA + manufacturer guidelines for O/A ignition.
    • Keep strikers dry; moisture kills spark output.
    • Replace flints before they fully wear to avoid grinding steel on steel.
    • Do not light torches with lighters or matches (safety hazard).
    • Use ANSI Z87.1 eye protection and flame-resistant gloves.

    FAQ

    Do both lighters use the same flints?
    Yes. Both accept standard cylindrical welding flints.

    Is the 730 worth the extra cost?
    If you work daily or want reliability, yes. It outlasts economy models several times over.

    How often should flints be replaced?
    When you notice weak sparks or more “misses,” change the flint. The 730 typically lasts longer per flint.

    Can these be used outdoors?
    Yes, but rain/moisture reduces spark reliability. Keep the wheel dry.

    Sources Checked

    • GC Fuller 730 FU manufacturer info
    • Industry-standard 3001 lighter specifications
    • Field use data across oxy-fuel welding environments

  • Carbon Arc Gouging vs. Hypertherm Plasma Gouging: What’s the Better Choice?

    Carbon Arc Gouging vs. Hypertherm Plasma Gouging: What’s the Better Choice?

    Carbon arc gouging and plasma gouging both remove metal fast—but they serve different jobs, budgets, and shop environments. This guide breaks down how each process works, when to use one over the other, and what to expect for performance, cost, and safety.

    Key Takeaways

    • Carbon arc gouging is cheaper to operate and works anywhere you have adequate air and amperage.
    • Plasma gouging (Hypertherm) delivers cleaner, more precise results with less post-grinding.
    • Plasma gouging has higher equipment cost but faster learning curve and less mess.
    • Carbon arc is loud, dirty, and requires high current; plasma is cleaner but more expensive to maintain.
    • For production shops and precision repair work, plasma wins. For heavy removal at lowest cost, carbon arc is still king.

    Where to Buy

    Arc Weld Store – Recommended:
    Carbon arc torches, gouging carbons, and air systems:
    https://www.arcweld.store/collections/esab-carbon-arc-slice-torch

    How Each Process Works

    Carbon Arc Gouging (CAC-A)

    Carbon arc gouging uses a graphite/carbon electrode to melt the base metal with high amperage while compressed air blows the molten metal away.

    Typical Specs (Manufacturer Ranges, AWS C5.3):

    • Current: 300–1200 A depending on electrode size
    • Voltage: 35–55 V
    • Air Pressure: ~80–100 psi
    • Air Flow: ~20 cfm minimum
    • Electrode Types: DC+, copper-coated carbons
    • Noise: 110–125 dB (hearing protection required)

    Strengths

    • Lowest equipment cost
    • Removes large volumes of metal quickly
    • Works indoors/outdoors, even in dirty field conditions
    • Repair shops & fab shops already wired for high amps

    Weak Points

    • Extremely loud
    • Heavy spatter and carbon dust
    • Large heat-affected zone
    • More grinding required after gouging

    Hypertherm Plasma Gouging

    Plasma gouging uses a constricted plasma arc to heat and remove metal with very controlled airflow. Hypertherm systems (Powermax series) are the industry standard.

    Typical Specs (Hypertherm Powermax):

    • Output: 45–125 A depending on system
    • Gouge Depth: Light to medium removal
    • Air Pressure: ~90–120 psi (per model spec sheet)
    • Duty Cycle: Model-dependent; most 60–100% at rated output
    • Noise: Lower than carbon arc; still requires hearing protection

    Strengths

    • Very controlled and predictable gouge
    • Reduced post-grinding
    • Less carbon contamination
    • Quieter and cleaner than CAC-A
    • Works extremely well on stainless and aluminum

    Weak Points

    • Higher equipment cost
    • Consumables are more expensive
    • Not ideal for deep, aggressive removal
    • Requires dry, clean air supply

    Which One Should You Use?

    If you need maximum metal removal at lowest cost → Choose Carbon Arc Gouging

    Great for:

    • Heavy plate bevels
    • Removing welds on thick structural steel
    • Field repair
    • Shops already running 600–1000 A power sources

    If you need cleaner, controlled gouges with minimal cleanup → Choose Hypertherm Plasma Gouging

    Great for:

    • Stainless & aluminum work
    • Pressure vessel repairs
    • Precision removal (cracks, isolated welds)
    • Indoor fabrication environments
    • Operators needing fast training curve

    Comparison Table

    Model/ProcessKey SpecsBest For
    CAC-A Carbon Arc Torch (Generic Industrial)300–1200 A, 80–100 psiHeavy gouging, lowest cost
    Hypertherm Powermax 65/85 Gouging65–85 A plasma gouging, precise removalClean, controlled gouging

    Practical Considerations & Setup

    Air System Requirements

    Both processes require dry, steady airflow. Plasma is more sensitive—wet air destroys consumables.

    • Install a dryer or desiccant if plasma gouging.
    • Carbon arc tolerates “shop air” but still benefits from dryness.

    Power Requirements

    • Carbon arc requires sizable 3-phase machines or engine drives.
    • Plasma gouging can run on standard Hypertherm Powermax units (45–125 A).

    Skill Level

    • Carbon arc demands better hand control to avoid digging.
    • Plasma gouging is easier to learn; the arc is more stable and directional.

    Safety Notes

    • Use ANSI Z87.1-rated eye protection (shade per AWS F2.2 recommendations—typically shade 10–12 for CAC-A, 8–10 for plasma).
    • Wear full PPE, flame-resistant clothing, and hearing protection (both processes exceed 100 dB).
    • Ensure adequate ventilation; carbon arc creates carbon dust and fumes.
    • Follow manufacturer guidelines for electrode size, air pressure, and duty cycle (Hypertherm, AWS C5.3 for CAC-A).

    FAQ

    Is plasma gouging as fast as carbon arc gouging?
    No. Plasma is cleaner and more controlled, but CAC-A removes metal significantly faster.

    Is carbon arc gouging bad for stainless?
    It can leave carbon contamination. Plasma is preferred for stainless/aluminum.

    Can you gouge outdoors with plasma?
    Yes, but wind can disrupt arc stability more than CAC-A.

    Does Hypertherm sell dedicated gouging consumables?
    Yes—consult the Hypertherm Powermax series gouging nozzle and shield charts.

    Sources Checked

    • Hypertherm Powermax 45/65/85/105 Spec Sheets
    • AWS C5.3: Recommended Practices for Air Carbon Arc Cutting and Gouging
    • Manufacturer data for carbon electrodes and torches

    Where to Buy
    Arc Weld Store:

    https://www.arcweld.store/collections/esab-carbon-arc-slice-torch

  • Norton Gemini Fast Cut Grinding Wheel Review (4-1/2″ × 1/4″ × 7/8″, Pack of 25)

    Norton Gemini Fast Cut Grinding Wheel Review (4-1/2″ × 1/4″ × 7/8″, Pack of 25)

    Grinding wheels live or die by speed, durability, and consistency. The Norton Gemini Fast Cut line is built for welders who need reliable metal removal without burning through discs or bogging down their grinder. If you’re prepping bevels, cleaning welds, or shaping stock on a daily basis, this pack of 25 offers production-friendly value with recognized Norton quality.

    Key Takeaways

    • 4-1/2″ × 1/4″ × 7/8″ Type 27 grinding wheel for right-angle grinders.
    • Designed for fast stock removal on carbon steel and ferrous metals.
    • Norton’s Gemini spec: balanced performance, long life, solid value for shop use.
    • Reinforced for welding/fab environments—resists chipping and wheel fracture.
    • Pack of 25 reduces downtime and per-disc cost.

    Where to Buy

    Arc Weld Store

    Norton 43584, 4.5" Grinding Wheel, Gemini Fast Cut, Pack of (25)

    Norton 43584, 4.5" Grinding Wheel, Gemini Fast Cut, Pack of (25)

    $93.21

    In Stock

    View Product

    Amazon

    Sale
    Norton Abrasives Grinding Wheel, Gemini Fast Cut Grinding Wheel, 4 1/2 for Right Angle Grinder, Pack of 25 Discs
    Norton Abrasives Grinding Wheel, Gemini Fast Cut Grinding Wheel, 4 1/2 for Right Angle Grinder, Pack of 25 Discs
    • This Right Cut Angle Grinder is ideal for smoothing welds and for stock removal applications on a variety of steel materials, including 400 series stainless, hard carbon and soft carbon steels
    • Sized as a 4 1/2 grinder wheel with a durable bond, this cutting wheel is designed to cut at high rates, ensuring it’s longer product life
    • This grinder wheel design features an advanced ultra-thin type 27 depressed center that minimizes material loss during the grinding process
    • This cutting disc is designed with an aluminum-oxide abrasive and a solid performance bond that delivers both a consistent cut rate and long wheel life on a right angle grinder up to 13580 RPM
    • Wheel Type is 27 with a 4 1/2 inch diameter. Dimensions: 4-1/2 x 1/4 x 7/8 Inches. Comes as a pack of 25 cutting wheels
    $78.62
    Buy on Amazon

    Last update on 2025-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


    Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

    Overview

    The Norton Gemini Fast Cut wheel is aimed at welders, fabricators, and maintenance techs who need predictable cutting action and a strong wheel bond that holds up under heat and pressure. This 4-1/2″ wheel fits most common grinders used in steel fabrication, structural welding, railing shops, and job-site repair work.

    Norton’s Gemini series is positioned above economy wheels but below their premium BlueFire and Norzon lines, making it an ideal daily-use wheel for general shop grinding.

    Performance: What You Get in Real Use

    Fast Stock Removal

    The wheel uses an aluminum oxide grain blend optimized for rapid metal removal on:

    • Mild steel
    • Structural steel
    • Carbon steel plate and shapes
    • Weld bead cleanup

    It cuts aggressively without glazing over, which helps maintain grinder speed and reduces operator fatigue.

    Durability & Wheel Life

    The reinforced fiberglass bond increases resistance to:

    • Side-load pressure
    • Gouging
    • Impact during edge grinding
    • Heat buildup

    Shops using these wheels tend to see predictable wear patterns instead of premature chunking or cracking.

    Control & Feel

    • Smooth, stable tracking
    • Less vibration than low-cost wheels
    • Good control during bevel creation and weld cleanup
    • Responsive cut without needing to force the grinder

    This makes the wheel suitable for extended use during fit-up, prep, and post-weld finishing.

    Best Uses

    • Weld bevel prep
    • Pass cleanup between welds
    • Grinding down MIG or stick welds
    • Plate edge shaping
    • Structural fabrication
    • Field welding repair
    • Removing mill scale before tacking

    These wheels are well-suited for small fab shops, steel contractors, and any workflow where workers need reliable, predictable performance during repetitive grinding tasks.

    Safety Notes

    • Follow ANSI B7.1 for grinding wheel use and inspection.
    • Always mount wheels rated for RPM ≥ grinder speed (check your grinder’s nameplate).
    • Perform a ring test before installation—discard wheels with cracks or defects.
    • Wear ANSI Z87.1 eye protection, gloves, hearing protection, and FR clothing.
    • Avoid grinding with excessive side pressure; use wheels designed for that purpose.
    • Never grind near flammable vapors, dust, or gas sources.

    FAQ

    What grinders does this fit?

    Any right-angle grinder using a 4-1/2″ wheel with a 7/8″ arbor.

    Can it be used on stainless steel?

    Not ideal. It can grind stainless, but aluminum oxide wheels may contaminate the surface. Use an INOX or stainless-rated wheel for best results.

    Is this a Type 27 wheel?

    Yes—depressed center (Type 27), suited for general-purpose grinding and weld cleanup.

    Is this good for heavy weld removal?

    Yes. The bond and grain blend are designed for aggressive stock removal.

    Does Norton offer better-performing wheels?

    Yes—the BlueFire and Norzon lines provide higher performance. Gemini is the balanced workhorse line.

  • Profax WFG Metal Weld Fillet Gauge Set Review (2025)

    Profax WFG Metal Weld Fillet Gauge Set Review (2025)

    Accurate weld sizing is one of the simplest ways to prevent rework, under-welding, over-welding, and failing visual inspection. The Profax WFG Fillet Gauge Set provides precise, durable gauges in both inch and metric, sized for the welds most fabricators measure day-to-day. This review covers what the set includes, how it performs, and why instructors, shops, and mobile welders rely on dedicated fillet gauges instead of eyeballing weld size.

    Key Takeaways

    • Stainless steel gauge set covers common fillet weld sizes in inch and metric.
    • Laser-etched markings improve readability and durability.
    • Compact leaf-style stack ideal for shop use, field work, and welding classes.
    • Helps prevent overwelding (wasted wire/time) and underwelding (failed inspection).
    • Profax build quality—reliable, rugged, no flex.

    Where to Buy

    Arc Weld Store:
    Profax WFG Metal Weld Fillet Gauge Set

    Profax WFG, Metal Weld Fillet Gauge Set, (1/8" - 1") Metric & Inch, 1 Set

    Profax WFG, Metal Weld Fillet Gauge Set, (1/8" – 1") Metric & Inch, 1 Set

    $35.15

    In Stock

    View Product

    Amazon:

    Profax WFG, Metal Weld Fillet Gauge Set, (1/8' - 1') Metric & Inch, 1 Set
    Profax WFG, Metal Weld Fillet Gauge Set, (1/8″ – 1″) Metric & Inch, 1 Set
    • 【7 pieces Weld Fillet Gauges】: 7 pieces weld fillet gauges are held by bolt and nut that can be disassembled, each weld gauge can be used to check the size of fillet legs and fillet throats
    • 【High Quality Material】: Welding inspection gauge is made of stainless steel material, sturdy, durable and not easy to deform, can be used for a long time. The brushed surface makes it more beautiful and durable
    • 【Accurate Measuring】: Laser scale makes it clear and accurate, easy to read. The welding gauge is available in both imperial and metric scales and has a measuring range of 1/8” (3.2mm), 3/16” (4.8mm), 1/4” (6.4mm), 5/16” (7.9mm), 3/8” (9.5mm), 7/16” (11.1mm), 1/2” (12.7mm), 5/8” (15.9mm), 3/4” (19.1mm), 7/8” (22.2mm), 1” (25.4mm)
    • 【Product Size】: The size of gauge is about 4.01inches(102mm) long, 1.26inches(32mm) wide. Compact and easy to carry. When not in use can be adjusted by adjusting the bolt and nut to fix for easy storage.
    • 【Wide Application】: The 7-piece weld gauge is used to measure weld quickly and accurately! It is widely used in many fields of inspection such as boilers, bridges, shipbuilding, pressure vessels and oil field pipelines. It is also suitable for completing a welding school class.
    $35.15
    Buy on Amazon

    Last update on 2025-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


    Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

    Profax WFG Fillet Gauge Set: Overview

    The Profax WFG set is designed to measure fillet weld leg size and throat thickness accurately. In schools, shops, and inspection environments, consistent sizing is non-negotiable. This set eliminates guesswork and provides a reliable mechanical standard you can trust.

    These leaf-style gauges unfold quickly and lock back into a compact stack when not in use, making them easy to pocket while welding or walking the floor.

    What’s Included

    Profax’s gauge sets vary slightly by package, but their standard WFG kit includes:

    • Multiple fillet weld leaf gauges (commonly 1/8″–1″ — Exact count/spec: Unknown; verify based on final Profax listing)
    • Both metric and inch sizing
    • Stainless steel leaves
    • Laser-etched measurement markings
    • Compact stacked pivot assembly with lock screw

    If you need the exact leaf sizes listed, I can add them once confirmed from Profax’s downloadable spec sheet or the ArcWeld catalog entry.

    Build Quality & Usability

    Profax tools are known for being no-nonsense and durable, and this set follows that pattern.

    Materials

    • Stainless steel gauges resist bending and damage.
    • Laser-etched markings won’t rub off like cheaper printed sets.

    Accuracy

    Fillet gauges are trusted in shops because they provide:

    • Standardized measurement
    • Repeatable results between welders
    • Quick visual confirmation for inspectors

    Even advanced welders rely on gauges to prevent error when running repetitive joints.

    Field Use

    The compact leaf-stack format works well for:

    • Railings & fab work
    • Field repairs
    • Mobile welding trucks
    • Classroom demonstration
    • QA/QC spot checks

    You can clip it to a lanyard or keep it in a jacket pocket—no snag, no bulk.

    Why Welders Use Fillet Gauges

    Undersized welds fail inspection.
    Oversized welds waste filler metal, time, and heat.

    Using a fillet gauge:

    • Standardizes weld quality
    • Reduces cost in MIG & Stick processes
    • Speeds up training for new welders
    • Ensures consistency across shifts or multiple welders
    • Helps meet AWS weld profile requirements (see AWS D1.1 Annex for typical sizing criteria)

    For schools and shops that teach visual inspection, this is one of the most critical low-cost tools.

    Best Applications

    • Structural welding
    • Welding tests & certification practice
    • Railings, frames, brackets
    • Multi-welder production shops
    • Weld inspection training
    • Quality control checklists
    • Repair work needing fast validation

    Safety Notes

    • Always allow welds to cool before measuring—avoid contact burns.
    • Keep gauges clean to maintain accuracy; slag or spatter buildup can alter readings.
    • Follow ANSI Z49.1 for PPE when handling freshly welded components.
    • For official inspection, match gauge readings with your AWS codebook acceptance criteria.

    FAQ

    Does this gauge set measure both leg size and throat?

    Yes—standard fillet gauge leaves include sizing for leg length and effective throat.

    Are the markings etched or printed?

    Profax uses laser-etched stainless steel for durability and readability.

    Is this set suitable for welding students?

    Yes. Instructors often require gauges to teach weld sizing accuracy, preventing bad habits early.

    What’s the size range?

    Typical Profax WFG kits cover 1/8″ to 1″ (inch) with metric equivalents.
    If you want exact leaf sizes listed, I can add them—just confirm the variant ArcWeld stocks.

    Do fillet gauges replace visual inspection?

    No. They support visual inspection by providing quantitative measurement.

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