5 OPERATION
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© ESAB AB 2018
Inductance
Higher inductance results in a wider weld pool and less spatter. Lower inductance produces
a harsher sound but a stable, concentrated arc.
It only applies to MIG/MAG welding.
TIG welding
TIG welding melts the metal of the workpiece, using an arc struck from a tungsten electrode,
which does not itself melt. The weld pool and the electrode are protected by shielding gas.
"Live TIG-start"
At a ”Live TIG-start” the tungsten electrode is placed against the workpiece. When the
electrode is lifted away from workpiece, the arc is struck at a limited current level.
For TIG welding, the welding power source shall be supplemented with:
• a TIG torch with gas valve
• an argon gas cylinder
• an argon gas regulator
• tungsten electrode
Arc air gouging
With arc air gouging, a special electrode comprising a carbon rod with a copper casing is
used.
An arc is formed between the carbon rod and the workpiece, which melts the material.
Compressed air is supplied so that the melted material is blown away.
For arc air gouging the power source shall be supplemented with:
• arc air torches
• compressed air
• return cable with clamp
Electrode Ø
Voltage min.
Voltage max.
Electrode Extension
6 mm (1/4")
36 V
49 V
50 - 76 mm
(2 - 3")
8 mm (5/16")
39 V
52 V
10 mm (3/8")
43 V
52 V
Table 3. Recommended for gouging
MMA welding
MMA welding may also be referred to as welding with coated electrodes. Striking the arc
melts the electrode, and its coating forms protective slag.
For MMA welding the power source shall be supplemented with:
• welding cable with electrode holder
• return cable with clamp