WELDING TECHNIQUE
1.
With the welder correctly connected to the mains supply and the leads
attached to the machine, ensure the earth clamp is firmly attached to the
workpiece on CLEAN, SOLID metal, and as close to the proposed weld as is
practical, and the appropriate current setting for the job has been set.
2.
Switch ON the machine.
NOTE:
If the machine stops at any time and the amber light on the front panel illuminates,
the thermal cutout has intervened. Wait until the transformer has cooled sufficiently
for work to recommence. This could take considerable time and is denoted by
the amber light going OUT. On smaller machines the lamp is built in to the ON/
OFF switch.
3.
Bring the electrode to the work surface at an angle of approx. 70
O
then,
BEFORE
you strike an arc, bring the face shield up to protect your eyes.
Strike an arc by briefly touching the work surface with the tip of the electrode.
Once the arc is struck or primed, raise the electrode slightly and maintain it at a
distance of approx 1.5mm (1/16”) from the work surface, then proceed to move
the electrode along its intended path, keeping the tip in the molten pool at all times
An even crackling noise should be heard, which is an indication of a good weld.
NOTE:
This is the most difficult aspect for most beginners. It is recommended that you
practice on some scrap material in order to get a feel of the operation.
If the electrode is not withdrawn quickly enough once the arc is primed, there is a
possibility that the electrode will weld itself to the workpiece. Should this happen,
give it a sharp tug to free it, and try again. If this fails to free it, turn OFF the machine
immediately as it will quickly overheat.
If you withdraw the electrode too far once the arc is primed, you will lose the arc
and have to try again.
4.
Inspect the job carefully. With a correct combination of electrode size and
current setting the area of weld should be complete fusion of the electrode
and parent metal/s. Any slag which forms on the surface should be chipped
away with the pick/brush supplied.
If the resultant weld looks messy and irregular, this is an indication of porosity
or slag contamination, and you have almost certainly failed to achieve the
correct combination. This is a common problem, so do not worry as practice
will quickly cure this.
The following tips should help you improve your welding technique fairly quickly.
WARNING
When welding ALWAYS ensure there is adequate ventilation in the
work area as the welding process give off toxic fumes
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