Chicago Electric MIG 170 Penetration Workpiece Heat Control, Bend at Joint, Weld Problems

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Weld Problems

Penetration (Workpiece Heat Control)

EXCESS PENETRATION OR

PROPER PENETRATION

INADEQUATE PENETRATION

BURN-THROUGH

Weld is visible underneath and

Weld does not contact the joint

Weld droops on top and

bulges slightly on top.

fully, just on the surface.

underneath, or falls through

 

 

entirely, making a hole.

 

 

SAFETY

PROFILE VIEWS

POSSIBLE CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS

1.Workpiece overheating:

Reduce wire feed speed.

Decrease weld current.

2.Welding speed too slow: Increase welding speed and ensure that welding speed is kept steady.

3.Excessive material at weld:

Reduce wire feed speed.

Bend at Joint

PROFILE

VIEW

POSSIBLE CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS

1.Improper clamping: Clamp workpieces securely.

Make tack welds to hold workpieces.

2.Excessive heat:

Weld a small portion and allow to cool before proceeding.

Increase weld speed.

Reduce wire feed speed.

Coat of Slag Over Weld

TOP

VIEW

PARTIALLY CHIPPED AWAY TO SHOW WELD

Slag is a necessary part of a flux-core wire weld. It shields the weld from impurities. Clean off the slag with the Chipping Hammer and Wire Brush after welding.

POSSIBLE CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS

1.Incorrect welding technique: Maintain 1/2″ or less stickout.

Keep arc on leading edge of weld puddle. Hold torch at proper angles.

2.Insufficient weld heat:

Reduce welding speed.

Increase weld current.

3.Workpieces too thick/close: Bevel thick workpieces, allow slight gap, and weld in several passes.

4.Insufficient weld material: Increase wire feed speed.

Weld Not Adhering Properly

Gaps present between weld and previous bead or between weld and workpiece. See areas below.

PROFILE

VIEW

POSSIBLE CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS

1.Incorrect welding technique:

Place stringer bead at correct place in joint. Adjust workpiece position or weld angle to permit proper welding to bottom of piece.

Pause briefly at sides during weave bead. Keep arc on leading edge of weld puddle. Hold torch at proper angles.

2.Insufficient weld heat: Increase current. Increase wire feed speed.

3.Dirty workpiece:

Clean workpiece down to bare metal.

SETUP

BASIC WELDING

WELDING TIPS

MAINTENANCE

Gas-shielded MIG welds are protected by the

4. Insufficient weld material:

 

shielding gas and do not need slag to protect them.

Increase wire feed speed.

 

SKU 68885

For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.

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Contents Save this Manual Email our technical support at tech@harborfreight.comGeneral Safety Table of ContentsArc Ray Safety Fume and Gas SafetySafety Setup Basic Welding Welding Tips MaintenanceFire Safety Electrical SafetySafety Setup Welding Welding Tips MaintenanceGas Shielded Welding Cylinder safety MaintenanceWelding Maintenance Welder use and careSetup Basic Welding Replacement CordsExtension Cords GroundingSymbology Basic Welding Welding Tips MaintenanceSpecifications Tips Maintenance Face Shield AssemblySetup Plug AttachmentWire Spool Installation Dcen Setup BasicDcep Feed Roller Instructions Tensioner Arm8mm = .030 & 0.6mm = Feed Roller Knob 030/.035 groove and stamp Groove and stampHold Wire welding Securely SafetyWelding Wire Setup Basic Welding Welding TipsTurn the Welder OFF Incrementally Increase tension Until wire bendsBasic Welding Safety Setup Basic Welding Welding Tips MaintenanceTo Prevent Serious Injury Control Panel Layout WireDial CordTorch Concrete slab Duty Cycle Duration of UseMIG Weld Settings Flux Weld SettingsMIN MAX MINDo not Switch the Current Setting Up The WeldWhile Welding Hold Torch Clear From AsphyxiationStringer bead Basic Welding TechniqueClose shielding gas tank valve completely MIG onlyUp to 2 minutes Welding at rated output Strike Test Cleaning the WeldWelding Tips Workpiece Heat Control / Weld Penetration Example Weld DiagramsWeld Diagnosis To CorrectPenetration Workpiece Heat Control Weld ProblemsBend at Joint Coat of Slag Over WeldExcessive Spatter PorosityCrooked/Wavy Bead Burn-ThroughMaintenance Nozzle and Contact Tip Inspection and CleaningFire and Burns Compressed air, blow out all dust from the interiorWire creates a bird’s nest during operation Wire feed motor runs but wire does not feed properlyTroubleshooting Welding arc not stablePower switch does not light when switched on TroubleshootingWire Feeds, but arc does not ignite Safety Setup Basic Welding Welding TipsParts List Wiring DiagramParts List and Diagrams Record Serial Number HereWelding Assembly Diagram3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Mission Oaks Blvd. PO Box 6009 Camarillo, CA 93011 800 Limited 90 Day Warranty

MIG 170 specifications

The Chicago Electric MIG 170 is a versatile and powerful welding machine designed for both amateur and professional welders. This compact welder is particularly suited for those who frequently work on metal fabrication projects, automotive repairs, and home improvement tasks. With its impressive performance capabilities and a range of user-friendly features, the Chicago Electric MIG 170 has become a popular choice among welding enthusiasts.

One of the standout features of the Chicago Electric MIG 170 is its robust welding output. It operates on standard 220-volt power, allowing it to deliver a consistent output that ranges from 30 to 170 amps. This wide range provides users with the capability to weld various materials, including mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Additionally, it is capable of welding materials up to 5/16 inches thick, making it a reliable choice for heavy-duty applications.

The MIG 170 utilizes a gasless flux-cored wire welding process, which makes it suitable for outdoor use without the necessity of shielding gas. This feature eliminates the need for additional gas tanks, making the welding experience simpler and more cost-effective. Users can also switch to MIG welding with a gas setup if desired, allowing for greater versatility in their projects.

Moreover, this welder is equipped with an adjustable wire feed speed control, permitting users to customize their welding settings for different thicknesses of material. The easy-to-read control panel enhances usability, giving welders the ability to quickly adapt to changing conditions and requirements. A built-in thermal overload protection system further ensures that the machine operates safely, preventing damage due to overheating during extended use.

The portability of the Chicago Electric MIG 170 is another key advantage. Weighing in at approximately 60 pounds, it can easily be transported to job sites or moved around a workshop. Its compact design does not compromise on performance, making it a great addition to any workspace.

Overall, the Chicago Electric MIG 170 is an excellent welding machine that blends power, efficiency, and ease of use. Its combination of features makes it suitable for beginners and seasoned welders alike, solidifying its reputation as a go-to option in the welding community. Whether for hobbyist projects or more serious applications, the MIG 170 remains a reliable and effective choice for various welding needs.
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