Okay ... My first experience with a gas welding torch.....
The picture below was a test piece which, when I get it right, will be a "Torque Tube Push / Pull Rod"
Ultimately, the flat portion is sanded round and welded. It is then drilled and a piece of bushing stock is inserted through the hole.
What have I learned ....? well ... I'm not sure. Here come all of the questions!
1) How many times can you heat the tube to a dull cherry red? I heated and slowly squashed it four times. Is this acceptable? (it was allowed to cool on its own, no quenching)
2) What are the flakes? Mill Scale maybe? Would it make a difference if I removed it before heating?
3) The tube was squashed in a vise. the jaws have left a crimp mark / line. Surely this is a weak point and is not desired? How would one avoid this?