Chicago Electric 40388 - Manual (Page 13)

Page 13- SKU: 40388
important information, you are strongly urged to obtain appropriate training, and to
practice on non-critical test pieces before attempting to weld important items.
To begin welding, first observe all safety precautions, then attach the Ground Clamp
to the workpiece in such a way as to provide good electrical conductivity between
the weld area and the ground clamp. Adjust the Amperage to the correct setting, by
turning the AMPERAGE CONTROL KNOB (3) and observing the INDICATOR (4)
through the CLEAR COVER (3).
While wearing protective clothing and holding the Electrode Clamp away from con-
ducting surface, insert correct electrode (welding rod) into Electrode Clamp, at con-
venient angle.
Turn the SWITCH (1) to the correct Voltage, and pause momentarily for the TRANS-
FORMER (19) to fully charge.
Drag the electrode along the workpiece in a motion similar to striking a match. Do
not “rap” the electrode on the workpiece as that may damage the electrode by dis-
lodging flux and inhibit proper welding performance.
Once the arc is ignited, position the electrode at a 30° angle to the workpiece. While
working, maintain the arc by holding the electrode away from the workpiece a dis-
tance equal to the electrode’s diameter.
Proceed at a smooth, steady pace. Observe the weld as you proceed, tempering
your motions to achieve a good weld.
tipS FOr Welding SucceSS
Good welds depend on the action of an appropriate flux. Do not use welding rods
which have a damaged or missing flux coating.
Experienced welders often use a “weaving” technique. This is a smooth oscillating
motion of the electrode during the weld process to evenly disperse the weld puddle
throughout the joint. This also results in a repetitive wave-like pattern on the surface
of the weld.
As you progress, periodically use a “Slag Hammer” and “Scratch Brush” to remove
flux and slag deposits on the surface of the weld before the weld is fully cooled. This
will help prevent inclusions and pitting in the weld.
Strive for an even weld joint that fully penetrates the workpiece, and is completely
filled with the pooled welding material. Avoid leaving gaps, undercuts, cavities or
excess material overflowing from the joint.
Minimize the Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) of your workpiece. The welding process
heats the base material, and may adversely affect its tensile strength or state of
heat-treatment. Expert welders apply only the amount of heat needed to produce a
good weld by moving smoothly along the weld joint, using the correct setting, and
applying the electrode efficiently.
Do not contaminate joint by using dirty materials or tools, or using slag hammers
or scratch brushes which have been previously used on different material. For ex-
ample, a scratch brush previously used on steel weld may cause rust contamination
if used on stainless steel weld.
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