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Section 2
Note:
A Lift TIG start should be done with a nearly seamless motion. Use a light touch and a quick motion for best results.
1
2
1.
Position the edge of the ceramic cup on the metal. Do not touch the tungsten to the metal until ready. The tip is always live.
2.
Quickly rotate the cup so that the tungsten comes in brief contact (< .2 seconds) with the metal.
3.
After contact with the metal, quickly rock the torch back so that the tungsten breaks contact with the metal.
4.
An arc should form. As the arc grows, raise the cup up off the metal and slowly rotate the torch into welding position.
5.
Leave 1/8" or less gap between the tungsten tip and the metal.
6.
Poor starts and welding of the tungsten to the surface can be a result of a rapid "double tap" or quick bounce off the surface
of the metal and back down. This inadvertently signals the inverter to put out full power until the continuity or arc is broken.
If this occurs, fully break the arc by quickly snapping the torch up and away from the weld, and re-sharpen the point if neces-
sary, then allow the point to stop glowing and attempt the start again. Do not scratch start in Lift TIG mode, or the tungsten
may stick fast. Performing a scratch start instead of a lift start can also trigger this as the tungsten "skips" along the surface.
Note: This method takes some practice to master to initiate the arc on the first try. However, an arc can usually be struck fairly easily by the beginner, though it
may take 2 or 3 times to get one to initiate properly. After it is mastered, arc striking can be done with a light, seamless motion on the first try. The tungsten
will always be live, so be sure to protect the tip from accidental contact with the surface of the metal when not welding. If a torch holder isn't available to store
the torch when not in use, a protective boot can be made from heat resistant hose, tubing or other similar material that will slide onto the torch cup so it
protects and insulates the tungsten from direct contact.
METAL THICKNESS
1-3 mm/.040"-1/8"
3-6 mm/ 1/8"-3/16"
LIFT START TIG OPERATION
3
WELDING AMPS (A) TUNGSTEN DIA.
5-80
80-140
17
GENERAL SETUP AND OPERATION
1-2 mm/.040"-3/32"
2-3 mm/ 3/32"-1/8"
5
4
<1/8"
Ar FLOW RATE
8-15 CFH /4-7 lpm
15-25 CFH/ 7-14 lpm
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