PAGE 11
Based on different welding position, there are different welding joint, see following image:
5.
GROUND CLAMP CONNECTION
Clear any dirt, rust, scale, oil or paint on the ground clamp. Make certain you have a good solid ground
connection. A poor connection at the ground clamp will waste power and heat. Make sure the ground clamp
touches the metal.
6.
ELECTRODE
The welding electrode is a rod coated with a layer of flux. When welding, electrical current flows between the
electrode (rod) and the grounded metal work piece. The intense heat of the arc between the rod and the
grounded metal melts the electrode and the flux. For best performance on this unit, we suggest the use of
6013 electrodes.
7.
SELECTING THE PROPER ELECTRODE
There is no golden rule that determine the exact rod or heat setting required for every situation. The type and
thickness of metal and the position of the work piece determine the electrode type and the amount of heat
needed in the welding process. Heavier and thicker metals required more amperage. It is best to practice your
welds on scrap metal which matches the metal you intend to work with to determine correct heat setting and
electrode choice. See the following helpful trouble shooting tips to determine if you are using a correct
electrode.
7.1. When proper rod is used:
7.1.a. The bead will lay smoothly over the work without ragged edges
7.1.b. The base metal puddle will be as deep as the bead that rises above it
7.1.c. The welding operation will make a crackling sound similar to the sound of eggs frying
7.2. When a rod too small is used;
7.2. a. The bead will be high and irregular
7.2. b. The arc will be difficult to maintain
7.3. When the rod is too large
7.3. a. The arc will burn through light metals
7.3. b. The bead will undercut the work
7.3. c. The bead will be flat and porous
7.3. d. Rod may be freeze or stick to work piece
Note:
Rate of travel over the work also affects the weld. To ensure proper penetration and enough deposit
of rod, the arc must be moved slowly and evenly along the weld seam.
