Lincoln Electric IM348 AC-225-GLM - Manual (Page 11)

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Four simple manipulations are of prime importance.
Without complete mastery of these four, further welding is
more or less futile. With complete mastery of the four,
welding will be easy.
1. The Correct Welding Position
Beginners will find it easier to learn how to control the
welding arc using the two-handed technique shown below.
This requires the use of a headshield.
a. Hold the electrode holder in your right hand.
b. Touch your left hand to the underside of your right.
c. Put the left elbow against your left side.
(For welding left-handed it is the opposite.)
If you are using a hand shield, hold the electrode holder in
your right hand and the hand shield in your left. (For weld-
ing left-handed it is the opposite.)
Whenever possible, weld from left to right (if right-hand-
ed). This enables you to see clearly what you are doing.
Hold the electrode at a slight angle as shown.
2. The Correct Way to Strike an Arc
Be sure the work clamp makes good electrical contact to
the work.
Lower your headshield or hold the hand shield in front of
your face. Scratch the electrode slowly over the metal and
you will see sparks flying. While scratching, lift the elec-
trode 1/8" and the arc is established.
NOTE: If you stop moving the electrode while scratching,
the electrode will stick.
NOTE: Most beginners try to strike the arc by a fast jab-
bing motion down on the plate. Result: They either stick or
their motion is so fast that they break the arc immediately.
3. The Correct Arc Length
The arc length is the distance from the tip of the electrode
core wire to the base metal.
Once the arc has been established, maintaining the correct
arc length becomes extremely important. The arc should be
short, approximately 1/16 to 1/8" long. As the electrode
burns off the electrode must be fed to the work to maintain
correct arc length.
The easiest way to tell whether the arc has the correct
length is by listening to its sound. A nice, short arc has a
distinctive, “crackling” sound, very much like eggs frying
in a pan. The incorrect, long arc has a hollow, blowing or
hissing sound.
4. The Correct Welding Speed
The important thing to watch while welding is the puddle
of molten metal right behind the arc. Do NOT watch the
arc itself. It is the appearance of the puddle and the ridge
where the molten puddle solidifies that indicate correct
welding speed. The ridge should be approximately 3/8"
behind the electrode.
Most beginners tend to weld too fast, resulting in a thin,
uneven, “wormy” looking bead. They are not watching the
molten metal.
IMPORTANT: For general welding it is not necessary to
weave the arc; neither forwards and backwards nor side-
ways. Weld along at a steady pace. You will find it easier.
NOTE: When welding on thin plate, you will find that you
will have to increase the welding speed, whereas when
welding on heavy plate, it is necessary to go more slowly
in order to get good penetration.
Practice
The best way of getting practice in the four skills that
enable you to maintain:
1 Correct Welding Position
2. Correct Way To Strike An Arc
3. Correct Arc Length
4. Correct Welding Speed
is to spend a little more time on the following exercise.
Use the following:
Mild Steel Plate .....................................3/16" or heavier
Electrode ...........................................1/8" Fleetweld 180
Current Setting..........................................105 Amps AC