8
Normal Amps, Arc Length, Speed
Amperage Too Low
Amperage Too High
Arc Length Too Short
Arc Length Too Long
Speed Too Slow
Speed Too Fast
Workpiece
NOTE:
Weld bead width (W)
should be approximately
twice the diameter for the
electrode rod used.
W
Figure 7 - Weld Appearance
AMPERAGE SETTING
The correct amperage involves the
adjustment of the welding machine to
the required amp setting. This is
regulated by a knob on the welder. The
amperage required depends on the size
(diameter) of electrode used and the
thickness of the work piece.
Consult specifications listed on the
welder. Excessive amps burn through
light metals and the weld bead is flat
and porous (See Figure 7). The bead
appears high and irregular if the
amperage is too low.
WELD ANGLE
Weld angle is the angle at which the
electrode is held during the welding
process. Using the correct angle ensures
proper penetration and bead
formation. Electrode angle involves
two positions - travel angle and work
angle (See Figure 6).
Travel angle is the angle in the line of
welding and may vary from 5º to 45º
from the vertical, depending on
welding conditions.
Work angle is the angle from
horizontal, measured at right angles to
the line of welding.
For most applications, a 45º travel
angle and 45º work angle is sufficient.
For specific applications, consult an arc
welding handbook.
NOTE:
Right handed welders should
weld from left to right. Left handed
welders should weld from right to left.
The electrode should always point into
the weld puddle as shown.
ARC LENGTH
Arc length is the distance from the
work piece to the tip of the electrode,
the distance which the arc must travel.
A proper arc length is essential to
generate the heat needed for welding
(See Figure 7). An arc that is too long
produces an unstable arc, reduces
penetration, increases spatter, and
causes flat and wide beads. Too short
an arc does not create enough heat to
melt the work piece, the electrode has
a tendency to stick, penetration will be
poor, and uneven beads with irregular
ripples result. A proper arc should be
no longer than the diameter of the rod.
The sound of a proper arc is a steady,
crisp sizzle, similar to bacon frying.
TRAVEL SPEED
The travel speed is the rate at which
the electrode is moved across the weld
area (See Figure 7). When the speed is
too fast, the bead is narrow and bead
ripples are pointed as shown. When the
speed is to slow, the weld metal piles
up and the bead is high and wide. To
control travel speed, watch the width
of the weld bead (not the arc) when
welding. The weld bead is the orange,
molten metal behind the arc. The width
should be approximately twice the
diameter of the welding rod. Control
travel speed to obtain a consistent
bead width.
Welding Guidelines (Continued)
Operating Instructions
Figure 6 - Weld Angle
5
o
- 45
o
Travel Angle
Work Angle
www.chpower.com
