42
STICK OPERATION
Tapping Method
Scratch/Match Method
STARTING METHODS
1.
Make sure the unit is turned on and the startup cycle has finished.
2.
Select the appropriate Stick icon on the Process Selector.
3.
Make sure electrode holder is in in the Positive connector and the work clamp is in the negative connector.
4.
Select the Amp level desired. Use table 5 to determine approximate amps suitable for the rod size selected. Consult the welding electrode
manufacturer
’
s recommendation as well for proper amperage. No voltage adjustment is available. Select Hot Start Time and Hot Start intensity to
improve starting reliability.
5.
Use the arc force control to select the desired arc characteristics, creating the desired arc characteristic and amp response needed to maintain
the arc. Cellulose electrodes may not have the same arc force behavior as other welding electrodes, but each brand and size will weld a little differ-
ently. The arc force control setting will vary from person to person as well, with different rod angles, positions, and arc lengths all factoring into the
arc force control performance. If you are new to using a transformer welder, there are some aspects that will seem different. One of the main ones
is that the arc is better controlled in most situations by
“
pushing in
”
when the arc seems to get weak or unstable and the arc force will kick in as the
voltage drops. Holding too long of an arc will signal the inverter to shut down and to terminate welding output. This threshold is shorter than most
transformers, and an extremely long arc cannot be maintained. However, with a little practice, the arc will be easy to manage.
6.
Strike the arc with either the tapping method or the match strike method. Beginners usually find that the match strike method typically yields
the best results.
Section 2 Setup Guide
NOTICE:
Pay attention to the Arc Force setting as it affects the aggressiveness of the arc and the amp response. Though the function of the control is
different from Stick to MIG, the effect is somewhat similar. In stick mode, reset the Arc force to approximately 3
-
5 and readjust it from that point
to find the optimum setting. Usually, an increase in the arc force for cellulose based flux welding rods is helpful. Lowering the Arc force setting
is generally desirable for rods iron powder/Titania based flux. Too much arc force create overheating of the welding rod, and even cause them to
flame up. Too little can lead to sticking and arc snuffing. Don
’
t forget to readjust the arc force when returning to MIG.
Summary of Contents for Power i-MIG 353DPi
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