Wire Reel Brake; Gas Regulator Operation - ESAB Fabricator 181i Service Manual

4.09 Wire Reel Brake

The wire reel hub incorporates a friction brake which is adjusted during manufacture for optimum breaking. If it is considered
necessary, adjustment can be made by turning the large nut inside the open end of the hub clockwise to tighten the brake. Correct
adjustment will result in the wire reel circumference continuing no further than 3/8" (10mm) - 3/4" (20mm) after release of the
trigger. The electrode wire should be slack without becoming dislodged from wire spool.
CAUTION
!
Overtension of brake will cause rapid wear of mechanical WIREFEED parts, overheating of electrical
components and possibly an increased incidence of electrode wire Burnback into contact tip.

4.10 Gas Regulator Operation

With the regulator connected to cylinder or pipeline, and the adjustment screw/knob fully disengaged, pressurize as follows:
1. Stand to one side of regulator and slowly open the cylinder valve. If opened quickly, a sudden pressure surge may damage
internal regulator parts.
2. With valves on downstream equipment closed, adjust regulator to approximate working pressure. It is recommended that
testing for leaks at the regulator connection points be carried out using a suitable leak detection solution or soapy water.
3. Purge air or other unwanted welding grade shielding gas from equipment connected to the regulator by individually open-
ing then closing the equipment control valves. Complete purging may take up to ten seconds or more, depending upon the
length and size of the hose being purged.
Adjusting Flow Rate
With the regulator ready for operation, adjust working flow rate as follows:
1. Adjust the gas flow rate. The recommended rate for MIG welding is 28-46 CFH. The recommended rate for LIFT TIG weld-
ing is 10-28 CFH.
NOTE!
It may be necessary to re-check the shielding gas regulator flow rate following the first weld sequence
due to back pressure present within shielding gas hose assembly.
Shutdown
Close cylinder valve whenever the regulator is not in use. To shut down for extended periods (more than 30 minutes).
1. Close cylinder or upstream valve tightly.
2. Open downstream equipment valves to drain the lines. Bleed gas into a well ventilated area and away from any ignition
source.
3. After gas is drained completely, disengage adjusting screw and close downstream equipment valves.
4. Before transporting cylinders that are not secured on a cart designed for such purposes, remove regulators.
Manual 0-5449
Wire Reel Brake Adjustment Nut
Figure 4-12: Wire Reel Brake
ESAB FABRICATOR 181i
Art # A-10361
4-13 INTRODUCTION