iBell IBL M200-89, Operator'S Manual

Page: 22 / 26

22
For beginners , the first difficulty is priming the arc. For best
results proceed as follows:

Test the current intensity and the electrode on a piece of scrap
material. Hold the electrode approximately 2 cm above the start
of the joint and hold the face shield in front of your face. Touch
the work-piece with the electrode and stroke it repeatedly on and
off the work-piece to start the arc. Remove the electrode with a
firm lateral jerk.

Watch the arc only through the face shield and keep the arc
length approximately 1–1.5 times the diameter of the electrode.
The arc length is very important as it has an influence on the
welding current and welding voltage.

Incorrect current intensity produces a poor quality, weak joint.
Hold the electrode at an angle approximately 70° – 80° to the
work-piece in the direction of advancement. If the angle is too
large, the slag can penetrate the joint; if the angle is too small,
the arc flutters and sprays molten metal. In both cases, a weak,
porous joint is produced.

Wait until the joint has cooled completely before removing the
slag. If you wish to continue welding a joint after taking a break,
the slag at the end of the joint must be removed first. Prime the
arc in the joint and melt the electrode at the point where the two
joints meet.
MMA WELDING MACHINES
NOTE:
Always use tongs or pliers to remove spent electrodes and
to move parts that you have just welded. Please note that the
electrode holder must always be put down so that it is insulated
after you have completed the welding work. Do not remove the slag
until the weld has cooled. If you want to continue a weld after an
interruption, the slag from your initial attempt must first be
removed
. Do not bang the electrode on the work-piece as this
could damage the electrode covering, making it more difficult to
prime the arc.