I'm fairly new to MIG welding and am hoping for some advice on a problem I have. When I 'weld' (ha ha) the wire comes out the tip, arcs then breaks off. Not so much welding but a fireworks display. When this happens the wire usually sticks to the tip and I have to release it with pliers.
My welder is a Draper MIG that I bought 2nd hand a couple of years ago. It worked ok then and after emmigrating it sat in my garage for 2 years. I tried it last night and the 1st weld was ok. Subsequent welds were as described above.
Any help or advice gratefully received!! Thanks guys....
My welder is a Draper MIG that I bought 2nd hand a couple of years ago. It worked ok then and after emmigrating it sat in my garage for 2 years. I tried it last night and the 1st weld was ok. Subsequent welds were as described above.
- I'm using (new) argon/CO2 which I know is working.
- The wire feeds smoothly when not arcing.
- The tip is new (0.8mm).
- Metal to be welded has been flapwheeled and is spotlessly clean.
- I have a good earth on the workpiece.
- The wire is 2+ years old and I'm thinking it may be the problem. Could it be that the 1st weld was ok as it was the wire shrouded by the liner?
Any help or advice gratefully received!! Thanks guys....