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anyway to test a TIG machine W/out an argon bottle?
Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 12:21 pm
by frederick flintstone
still looking for used TIG welders, none of them seem to come with an argon tank. and some flat out do not have a torch.
is there any way to really test a TIG without it being set up and ready to run?
Re: anyway to test a TIG machine W/out an argon bottle?
Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 2:48 pm
by AKweldshop
Not really, but you could do dry runs.
Or flux coated tig rods??
Re: anyway to test a TIG machine W/out an argon bottle?
Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 3:18 pm
by Oscar
AKweldshop wrote:Not really, but you could do dry runs.
Or flux coated tig rods??
even then, you won't know if the gas solenoid is functioning properly. Very important if you care at all about pre/post flow settings.
Re: anyway to test a TIG machine W/out an argon bottle?
Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 4:16 pm
by zank
You bet. Just bring helium
Re: anyway to test a TIG machine W/out an argon bottle?
Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 5:50 pm
by Otto Nobedder
The only tests that come to mind are to listen for the click of the gas solenoid (if equipped), and measure the open-circuit voltage with a voltmeter (should be around 50-52V for DC).
However, this won't prove it works. It can only prove it doesn't.
I'd be carefull looking at machines not in "ready to use" condition, where you can't give them a proper workout.
Steve S
Re: anyway to test a TIG machine W/out an argon bottle?
Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 8:15 pm
by Jason_alex
what about running the tig in stick mode?
Re: anyway to test a TIG machine W/out an argon bottle?
Posted: Fri Mar 28, 2014 8:24 pm
by Oscar
Jason_alex wrote:what about running the tig in stick mode?
only proves it works in stick mode lol