Typical Current Ranges For Tungsten Electrodes - Lincoln Electric VANTAGE 500 Operator's Manual

B-7
n general the 'Touch Start' feature avoids tungsten contamination
without the use of a Hi-frequency unit. If the use of a high
frequency generator is desired, the K930-2 TIG Module can be
used with the Vantage. The settings are for reference.
The Vantage is equipped with the required R.F. bypass circuitry
for the connection of high frequency generating equipment.
The Vantage and any high frequency generating equipment must
be properly grounded. See the K930-2 TIG Module operating
manuals for complete instructions on installation, operation, and
maintenance.
When using the TIG Module, the OUTPUT control on the Vantage
is used to set the maximum range of the CURRENT CONTROL
on the TIG Module or an Amptrol if connected to the TIG Module.
DCEN (-)
Tungsten
Electrode 1%, 2%
Diameter Thoriated
mm (in) Tungsten
.25 (0.010) 2-15
.50 (0.020) 5-20
1.0 (0.040) 15-80
1.6 (1/16) 70-150
2.4 (3/32) 150-250
3.2 (1/8) 250-400
4.0 (5/32) 400-500
4.8 (3/16) 500-750
6.4 (1/4) 750-1000
(1) When used with argon gas. The current ranges shown must be reduced when using argon/helium or pure helium shielding gases.
(2) Tungsten electrodes are classified as follows by the American Welding Society (AWS):
Pure
1% Thoriated
2% Thoriated
Though not yet recognized by the AWS, Ceriated Tungsten is now widely accepted as a substitute for 2% Thoriated Tungsten in
AC and DC applications.
(3) DCEP is not commonly used in these sizes.
(4) TIG torch nozzle "sizes" are in multiples of 1/16ths of an inch:
# 4 = 1/4 in.
# 5 = 5/16 in.
# 6 = 3/8 in.
# 7 = 7/16 in.
# 8 = 1/2 in.
#10 = 5/8 in.
(5) TIG torch nozzles are typically made from alumina ceramic. Special applications may require lava nozzles, which are less prone to
breakage, but cannot withstand high temperatures and high duty cycles.
OPERATION
Table B.3 TYPICAL CURRENT RANGES
FOR TUNGSTEN ELECTRODES
DCEP (+)
1%, 2%
Thoriated
Tungsten
(3)
(3)
(3)
10-20
15-30
25-40
40-55
55-80
80-125
EWP
EWTh-1
EWTh-2
6 mm
8 mm
10 mm
11 mm
12.5 mm
16 mm
Vantage 500 CUMMINS
VANTAGE SETTINGS WHEN USING THE K930-2
TIG MODULE
• Set the WELD MODE switch to the "Touch Start Tig 20-250
Setting".
• Set the IDLER switch to the "AUTO" position.
• Set the WELDING TERMINALS switch to the "Remotely
Controlled" position. This will keep the solid state contactor open
and provide a "cold" electrode until the triggering device
(Amptrol or Arc Start Switch) is pressed.
(1)
(2)
Approximate Argon Gas Flow Rate
l/min (c.f.m.)
Aluminium Stainless Steel
2-4 (3-8) 2-4 (3-8)
3-5 (5-10) 3-5 (5-10)
3-5 (5-10) 3-5 (5-10)
3-5 (5-10) 4-6 (9-13)
6-8 (13-17) 5-7 (11-15)
7-11 (15-23) 5-7 (11-15)
10-12 (21-25) 6-8 (13-17)
11-13 (23-27) 8-10 (18-22)
13-15 (28-32) 11-13 (23-27)
B-7
TIG TORCH
Nozzle
Size (4), (5)
#4, #5, #6
#5, #6
#6, #7, #8
#8, #10