Welding Tips - Arc Starting

READING ELECTRIC, a leading supplier of electro-mechanical equipment, services, and problem solver for Industrial and Commercial customers for over 50 years provides technical information to the Region’s Residential, Commercial and Industrial Community. This Bulletin provides information on tips to improve your TIG Arc Starting.

Always read and follow the safety precautions and operational instructions in your owner's manual.

What can I do to improve arc starting?
1. Use the smallest diameter tungsten possible for the amperage you are using. Match the tungsten electrode size with the collet size.
2. Purchase the highest quality tungsten available.
3. Use a premium quality torch and work leads.
4. Keep the torch and work leads as short as possible and move the power source as close as possible to the work.
5. Make sure the Stick electrode holder is detached from the machine before TIG welding.
6. Check and tighten all connections.
7. Keep the torch cable from contacting any grounded metal.
8. Use 100% argon shielding gas.
9. When welding aluminum, use AC current and a ceriated (orange identifying band) or lanthanated (blue identifying band) tungsten.
10. When welding steel and stainless steel, use DC-Straight Polarity (DCEN) and a 2% thoriated (red identifying band) tungsten . Prepare a pointed- end.
11. Always use a push technique with the TIG torch.
12. When welding a fillet, the leg of the weld should be equal to the thickness of the parts welded.
Information contributed by Miller Electric