Hi all, recently dug out the 3phase oil cooled machine, for some well needed practice.
Used to be able to lay a passable bead using GP rods, downhand.
I've bought some good quality but very cheap rods, off the interthingy (you know........postage is more than the rods)
Fine up to now....set the machine....struck the arc (tried to strike the arc) what a mess!. Looked like a volcano had emerged from the parent metal, the end burnt off the rod, the arc stuttered and spluttered and eventually froze to the bead (???) Try as I may, I couldn't hold the arc for more than a split second. Panic was setting in..........I bought a LOT of these rods.
There are two terminals on the welding plant, one 50v and one 80v. It had always been used on the 50v (it says for heavy gauge rods and these were 4.0mm) I changed over to the 80v and couldn't believe the difference, arc struck first attempt, no sticking or stalling.......nice weld with reasonable slag release (seemed to run a bit "fiery" though)
OK, long time getting here but my question, what did changing the settings do to make such a difference?
Thanks & regards, John...
Used to be able to lay a passable bead using GP rods, downhand.
I've bought some good quality but very cheap rods, off the interthingy (you know........postage is more than the rods)
Fine up to now....set the machine....struck the arc (tried to strike the arc) what a mess!. Looked like a volcano had emerged from the parent metal, the end burnt off the rod, the arc stuttered and spluttered and eventually froze to the bead (???) Try as I may, I couldn't hold the arc for more than a split second. Panic was setting in..........I bought a LOT of these rods.
There are two terminals on the welding plant, one 50v and one 80v. It had always been used on the 50v (it says for heavy gauge rods and these were 4.0mm) I changed over to the 80v and couldn't believe the difference, arc struck first attempt, no sticking or stalling.......nice weld with reasonable slag release (seemed to run a bit "fiery" though)
OK, long time getting here but my question, what did changing the settings do to make such a difference?
Thanks & regards, John...