Bevel thick sections or use Chamfer Rod to form a “U” shaped groove. Drill or use Cut Rod to create stop holes at each end of the part to be welded in order to prevent the spread of cracking during welding. Clean the work area as thoroughly as possible. Preheating is not required; however, it is useful in relieving stresses and to increase machineability of the weld deposit in parts greater than ½” thick. 200°F is an acceptable preheat temperature.