Page of 33
19
2. GROUND CLAMP CONNECTION
Clear any dirt, rust, scale, oil or paint on the ground clamp. Make certain you have a good solid
ground connection. A poor connection at the ground clamp will waste power and heat. Make sure
the ground clamp touches the metal.
3. ELECTRODE
The welding electrode is a rod coated with a layer of flux. When welding, electrical current flows
between the electrode (rod) and the grounded metal work piece. The intense heat of the arc
between the rod and the grounded metal melts the electrode and the flux.
4. SELECTING THE PROPER ELECTRODE
There is no golden rule that determines the exact rod or heat setting required for every situation.
The type and thickness of metal and the position of the work piece determine the electrode type and
the amount of heat needed in the welding process. Heavier and thicker metals required more
amperage. It is best to practice your welds on scrap metal which matches the metal you intend to
work with to determine correct heat setting and electrode choice. See the following helpful trouble
shooting tips to determine if you are using a correct electrode.
