FIREPOWER 160S
SERVICE
Service
5-4
Manual 0-5199
TIG Welding Problems (Continued)
5.04 Power Source Problems
Description
Possible Cause
Remedy
12. Arc start is not smooth.
A. Tungsten electrode is too large
for the welding current.
B. The wrong electrode is being
used for the welding job.
C. Gas flow rate is too high.
D. Incorrect shield gas is being
used.
E. Poor work clamp connection
to work piece.
A. Refer to section Tungsten Electrode
Current Ranges for the correct size.
B. Refer to section Tungsten Electrode
Types for the correct electrode type.
C. Select the correct flow rate for the
welding job.
D. Use 100% argon for TIG welding.
E. Improve connection to work piece.
WARNING
There are extremely dangerous voltages and power levels present inside this product. Do not attempt to
repair unless you are an Accredited Firepower Service Agent and you have had training in power measure-
ments and troubleshooting techniques. If major complex subassemblies are faulty, then the Welding Power
Source must be returned to an Accredited Firepower Service Agent for repair.
Description
Possible Cause
Remedy
1. The welding arc cannot be
established.
A. The Primary supply voltage
has not been switched ON.
B. The Welding Power Source
switch is switched OFF.
C. Loose connections internally.
A. Switch ON the Primary supply
voltage.
B. Switch ON the Welding Power
Source.
C. Have an Accredited Firepower
Service Provider repair the
connection.
2. The welding arc cannot
be established when the
Warning Indicator lights up
continuously
The machines duty cycle has been
exceeded
Wait for the Warning Indicator
to extinguish before resuming
welding
3. Maximum output welding
current cannot be achieved with
nominal Mains supply voltage.
Defective control circuit
Have an Accredited Firepower
Service Provider inspect then
repair the welder.
4. Welding current reduces when
welding.
Poor work lead connection to the
work piece.
Ensure that the work lead has a
positive electrical connection to
the work piece.
5. Circuit breaker (or fuse) trips
during welding.
The circuit breaker (or fuse) is
under size.
The recommended circuit breaker
(or fuse) size is 30 amp. An
individual branch circuit capable
of carrying 30 amperes and
protected by fuses or circuit
breaker is recommended for this
application.
6. The welding arc cannot be
established when Fault Indicator
is flashing.
The input current to the main
transformer has been exceeded.
Have an Accredited Firepower
Service Provider inspect then
repair the welder.
