I'm guessing you're using pulsed MIG or welding aluminum (spray transfer)? Guess I never noticed. There is a learning curve with MIG just as with any other process. Once you get the feel for it, it's very easy.

Plasma is strange. It prefers to break out from sharp points. If the cup material is porous or the slightest bit conductive, an arc will travel right over or through it. Porous ceramic can actually conduct a plasma arc better than air because areas of high charge concentration form around the grains...

I forgot to mention that half the expense of a welder is the wiring. You can install a whole breaker box to run some outlets for a grinder, etc. You can also install a small branch breaker or fuse box near the outlet so you don't have to go far to reset a breaker or change a fuse. The third way is j...

First you'll want to read through this: http://www.millerwelds.com/pdf/spec_sheets/AD4-8.pdf If you just get the power unit, you'll need a tig torch, ground cable/clamp, gas regulator and hose, and either the foot pedal or a finger control. From there, it depends on the type of torch you get. You ca...

It should work just fine as long as your wiring can deliver the amps. Poor contact anywhere (outlet prongs, ground clamp, in the tip) and it's not going to work. I'd even make sure the screws are snug on the wiring. Clean it up real good and get it nice and shiny before laying a bead. For anything e...