Section 3 Operation - ESAB Heliarc 161 Instruction Manual

SECTION 3
3.2.2 MMA Welding
1. Keeping the electrode/holder away from the work or
exposed metal surfaces connect the unit to the main
supply and switch the power on/off switch to "ON".
Open circuit voltage is now present at the electrode
holder.
2. Position the electrode close to the point where weld-
ing is to start without touching the work.
3. Cover your eyes by lowering your welding hood or
handshield, warn bystanders to protect their eyes.
4. Scratch the electrode on the work surface near the
start point (as though striking a match). The arc
should strike.
5. When the arc as stabilized, feed the electrode into
the hot pool of molten metal keeping the electrode
at approximately 65-80° to the workpiece.
If the electrode "freezes", ie. sticks to the workpiece,
gently twist the electrode and pull it free. If this is not
possible, release the electrode from the holder,
switch off the supply and cut the electrode free.
Freezing will occur if heavy contact is made with the
workpiece at too low a current setting.
6. Once the arc is successfully struck and stable, ad-
just the arc length to about the size of the electrode
diameter.
7. Weld bead size is dependent on the oscillation tech-
nique of th electrode. Typically a small 'whipping" or
"circular" motion works best.
This combination of backward and downwards move-
ment requires skill which will be acquired after a few prac-
tice welds.
Switch off the main supply when welding is completed or
while changing electrodes.
20
OPERATION