SMaintain a 3/4 in. (19 mm)
Gas Nozzle
Contact Tip To Work
Contact Tube Recessed 1/8Distance 3/4 in. (19 mm) in. (3.2 mm) Inside The Nozzle
Figure 5-2. Contact Tube Position And Tip-To-Work Distance
SAvoid large weave beads on aluminum. If larger fillet welds are needed, multiple pass straight beads will provide better appearance and have less chance of cold lapping, burn through, and other weld defects.
SIt will be necessary to increase torch travel speed as the base material becomes heated during the welding process.
SThe skill level of the operator, joint types, fit up, and positions, as well as the welding power supply will all have a great influence on the weldability of the aluminum and your success.
C. Common Problems/Troubleshooting
SBurn through (melt through) caused by over heating the base material.
1.Increase travel speed. Make shorter welds.
2.Move around on part, spreading out the heat.
3.Use thicker material, change joint design or welding process to AC TIG.
4.Eliminate or reduce gaps.
SDirty welds.
1.Use push angle instead of drag technique.
2.Increase voltage to get into spray transfer.
3.Use proper base metal cleaning techniques (stainless steel brush).
4.Check for proper shielding gas and wire alloy type.
SWire burns back to contact tip during or at the end of the weld.
1.Maintain a 3/4 in. (19 mm)
2.Check to make sure the contact tip size, drive rolls and gun liner match the wire diameter that you are using. (Sometimes an oversized tip can be used. The ID should only be one size larger than the wire diameter.)
SWire “bird nests” (piles up) in front of inlet guide on gun.
1.Check and adjust drive roll tension.
2.Check to make sure drive rolls match wire diameter.
3.Replace contact tip if fouled or plugged.(Sometimes an oversized tip can be used. The ID should only be one size larger than the wire diameter.)