AHP WELDS alphaTIG 203Xi, Operator'S Manual, Page: 27 / 32

27
Component Identification and Explanation of Function
alphaTIG 203Xi
slightly sticking to the work piece. It is best performed with low DC
start Amp values, 20 Amps or less. In AC, Lift start may be also per-
formed, but it is not generally recommended due to increased tung-
sten contamination at start. A proper lift start must be done quickly,
with a snap of the wrist without scratching across the surface. Do not
confuse this with a method known as
“ scratch start ”. Scratch start
involves a live Tungsten and puts full output to the Tungsten during
the start. The lift start on this unit is not live and a torch switch must
be used. Additionally the gas flow is also controlled through the use
of the torch switch or foot pedal. When using the Lift Start on this
unit, use a short Pre
- flow. Use the following illustration to guide you
to performing quick, easy Lift Starts.
Welding in Stick Mode
The stick function of this unit is designed for general purpose stick
welding. It is not designed for E6010 and some other types of cellu-
lose based flux rods. Ahp recommends that rods such as E6013,
E7014, and E7018 be used. E 6011 may be used as well, but you may
have to experiment with brands to determine the best performing rod
for you.
There are two basic methods of starting a stick welding arc. The first
is a basic tapping method. This works well once with some practice.
The rod is lightly, and quickly tapped (often double tapped quickly) to
start the arc. This should be a controlled, tight motion. The built in
hot start of this unit naturally lends itself to the tapping method.
The second method is a scratch start method, which is similar to a
striking a match. The tip of the electrode is quickly flicked across the
metal. This should not be an exaggerated motion, but a tight con-
trolled one for best results.
Use the illustration below to guide you in performing arc starts in the
stick welding mode.
Welding in Stick mode involves simply dragging the rod in a straight
line along the metal. Years ago, it was common to manipulate the
rod in tight circles, or C
- shaped patterns to get the metal to flow
across a wide area. It is still common to see many welders use this
method. However, after much research into weld strength, porosity
and other factors, it has been determined that a simple dragging
motion in a straight line yields the best results. This is known as the
“ stringer ” method. The stringer method does not preclude any ma-
nipulation of the rod, but any manipulation should be very controlled
and tight. The rod manipulation should not exceed the width of the
weld pool.
Additionally, the rod should be leaned at no more than a 20 angle in
the direction of the weld travel. This means that the electrode holder
(also referred to as a stinger) is held slightly in front of the puddle as
the electrode tip leads the edge of the weld puddle.
The final weld width should not exceed 2.5 times the width of the
welding rod. This does not include the flux. This counts only the met-
al filler itself.
•
Rest the edge of the cup on the
work piece so that the tungsten is
slightly off the work. Press the trig-
ger or foot pedal. Quickly rotate the
tungsten to the work using the cup
edge as a pivot.
•
A small spark may be noticed as it
touches. Once the Tungsten touch-
es, quickly and seamlessly rotate
the cup back to draw an arc.
•
Raise the cup to establish the arc to
1/8” or less in height.
•
Allow the puddle to form and move
the torch forward maintaining
1/8”
or less height.
1
2
3
≤
1/8” Weld Height
4
Tapping Method
Scratch/Match Method