[Dr Evil]

Hi folks. Today was a nice day, so I spend some time in the old garage. I thought I would fire up the old welder and play. I have never had success scratch starting without doing some damage to my tungsten tip. Can someone advise on scratch starting on steel? I don't have a foot option on my welder for starting.

Thanks


Machine is a Powcon

[jpence38]

Try using a small piece of copper to start your arc on instead of your work piece.

[brian]

Hold your tungsten about 1/8" off the work with the cup resting on the work. Drag your filler across the work and tungsten to close the circuit for a split second which will establish an arc.

[Dr Evil]

Well, here is the issue. I am using a standard welding helmet. I know, I know. Autoshade is
the way to go. I am really picky. I don't like the green that is displayed via the autoshade hoods. I wish the mfgs could make an autoshade with no green in it.

Besides that, I tried copper. Of course this was 1 scratch, and I got the copper on the tip. Back to grinding.

I tried my friends Miller syncrowave and at least I could run a beed. (First time welding on aluminum) I think I need to move much faster or turn the heat down something to that effect.

Anyway, I will try the cup on the table and use the filler rod trick.

BTW, is it possible to not scratch start on DC?? can one use a hand or foot puddle to start the arc??

Thanks

[jtybt]

If you have high frequency you can start an arc without touching the work piece.

[pro mod steve]

No offense meant what so ever but as a NOOB I have found (and been told by my teachers every day) SPEED KILLS.