Tweco SL100 - Manual (Page 33)

Manual 0-2962 4-9 OPERATION
C. Current Setting
Current settings depend on torch travel speed, mode
of operation (hand or machine torch), and the amount
of material to be removed.
D. Lead Angle
The angle between the torch and workpiece depends
on the output current setting and torch travel speed.
At 80 amps, the recommended lead angle is 35°. At
a lead angle greater than 45° the molten metal will
not be blown out of the gouge and may be blown back
onto the torch. If the lead angle is too small (less than
35°), less material may be removed, requiring more
passes. In some applications, such as removing welds
or working with light metal, this may be desirable.
35°
Workpiece
Torch Head
Standoff Height
A-00941_AB
Gouging Angle and Standoff Distance
E. Standoff Distance
The tip to work distance affects gouge quality and
depth. Standoff distance of 1/8 - 1/4 inch (3 - 6 mm)
allows for smooth, consistent metal removal. Smaller
standoff distances may result in a severance cut rather
than a gouge. Standoff distances greater than 1/4 inch
(6 mm) may result in minimal metal removal or loss
of transferred main arc.
F. Slag Buildup
Slag generated by gouging on materials such as car-
bon and stainless steels, nickels, and alloyed steels,
can be removed easily in most cases. Slag does not
obstruct the gouging process if it accumulates to the
side of the gouge path. However, slag build - up can
cause inconsistencies and irregular metal removal if
large amounts of material build up in front of the arc.
The build - up is most often a result of improper travel
speed, lead angle, or standoff height.