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Component Identification and Explanation
Choosing the proper grind angle is important to achieving the weld
penetration, bead appearance, and arc cone width that you desire.
While there is no true "one size fits all" angle, there are some general
rules of thumb to observe:
•
Always grind in-line with the length of the tungsten. Never make
radial grind (in the direction of the circumference) marks on the
tungsten which will cause arc instability. Never grind with the
tungsten held parallel to the stone face.
•
For most applications, grind a point that is 2 –2.5 times in length
than the tungsten is wide. This will create an angle of about 30
to 35 .
•
For AC, a more blunt angle may be used (around a 60 degree)
for best penetration. However, the 2 to 3 times in length rule will
still work for many circumstances.
•
For higher amperages, you will want to put a slightly truncated tip
on the tungsten.
•
Grip the tungsten firmly and slowly rotate it while grinding.
GRINDING TUNGSTEN CORRECTLY
•
Never use a radial grind pattern. This can be caused by grinding
at the wrong angle, or spinning the tungsten too fast while
grinding at the proper angle. The arc will be unstable.
•
Grind the angle so that the length of the grind measures 2 to 2.5
times the wide of the tungsten (For general purpose use this
should form about a 30 to 35 angle.) A slightly blunted end
(truncated) may be used if the amperage is over 50A to prevent
the tungsten from breaking off into the metal while welding.
<50 A
2.5 – 3 X Ø (DIAMETER)
>50 A
•
AC welding may require a blunter point for some applications
where greater penetration is desired. It may seem counter-
intuitive, but this will create a narrower arc cone and provide
more penetration.
AC
Getting Started
As you use the tungsten (depending upon the type you have select-
ed) you will notice that the tungsten will gently form more of a point-
ed dome as it is used. This is normal and the arc will remain stable.
Depending upon what arc properties you are looking for, you may
periodically want to regrind your tungsten to maintain optimal arc
characteristics.
The use of a scratch start TIG rig tends to accelerate wear on Tung-
sten. Experienced users, however, are able to get many starts out of
the Tungsten before a regrind is necessary. Inexperienced users
may find themselves regrinding nearly after every start!
If the start is performed incorrectly, small bits of Tungsten will be left
to contaminate the weld puddle. For best results, especially for be-
ginners, leave a slightly blunt point on the end of the Tungsten so
the end of the Tungsten will not snap off into the weld while striking
an arc. The best key is to practice and follow the arc starting direc-
tions found in the "Explanation of MIG and TIG Operation" section.
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