R2500
SECTION 5 — FAULT FINDING AND MAINTAINANCE
5.1 MMA Welding Problems
Most problems with MMA welding are the result of not setting the correct welding parameters for the welding
rod being used.
All welding rod packets have information on them in symbolic format , giving suitable current range, polarity
and type of weld (normally called 'position').
If you are in doubt about what these symbols mean, ask your welding rod supplier to explain them.
Choose an initial current setting towards the middle of the quoted range and if necessary practice on a
piece of scrap the same thickness as the job to be welded.
5.2 Maintenance
Note! All Electric shocks are potentially fatal, switch the machine off and unplug from the mains supply before
carrying out any maintenance work.
It is very important that the R2500 is regularly maintained. The amount of use and the working environment
must be taken into account when scheduling the maintenance periods.
Careful use and regular preventative maintenance will prolong the life of the machine and ensure trouble
free operation.
Weekly
•
Clean the exterior of the machine
•
Inspect the machines exterior for obvious signs of damage.
•
Check the condition of the welding cable, earth clamp and welding output connectors for damage and
any sign of over-heating.
•
Check the condition of the mains cable an plug.
Three monthly
As per the weekly schedule, plus:-
•
Remove the side panels from the machine and remove the build up of dust and debris from inside the ma-
chine. Either use compressed air at low pressure or an industrial type vacuum cleaner.
•
Make a thorough visual inspection of the interior of the machine, look particularly for pieces of welding
wire, or stubs of old welding rods that may have got through the cooling air intakes.
•
Check the condition of the mains input connector, look for loose terminal block screws and make sure the
sheath of the mains cable is still clamped securely to the chassis. Make sure the earth wire is still securely
fastened to the earth stud.
•
Check the condition of the welding output connectors, look for any signs of discoloration due to overheat-
ing, this is generally caused by poor connection of the welding power leads due to loose connection bolts
inside the set, or poor quality welding connectors on the electrode holder or earth return lead and can be
a common cause of welding set failure.
Annually
As per the three monthly schedule, plus :
Have the machines calibration checked, if necessary have the machine re-calibrated by a New-Arc trained
technician.