GW4500
5º - 45º
Travel Angle
Work Angle
Figure 6 - Weld Angle
Welding Guidelines (Continued)
Work angle is the angle from horizontal, measured at right angles to the line of welding.
For most applications, a 45º travel angle and 45º work angle is sufficient. For specific applications, consult an arc welding handbook.
NOTE: Right handed welders should weld from left to right. Left handed welders should weld from right to left. The electrode should always point into the weld puddle as shown.
ARC LENGTH
Arc length is the distance from the work piece to the tip of the electrode, the distance which the arc must travel. A proper arc length is essential to generate the heat needed for welding (See Figure 7). An arc that is too long produces an unstable arc, reduces penetration, increases spatter, and causes flat and wide beads. Too short
an arc does not create enough heat to melt the work piece, the electrode has a tendency to stick, penetration will be poor, and uneven beads with irregular ripples result. A proper arc should be no longer than the diameter of the rod.
The sound of a proper arc is a steady, crisp sizzle, similar to bacon frying.
TRAVEL SPEED
The travel speed is the rate at which the electrode is moved across the weld area (See Figure 7). When the speed is too fast, the bead is narrow and bead ripples are pointed as shown. When the speed is to slow, the weld metal piles up and the bead is high and wide. To control travel speed, watch the width of the weld bead (not the arc) when welding. The weld bead is the orange, molten metal behind the arc. The width should be approximately twice the diameter of the welding rod. Control travel speed to obtain a consistent bead width.
W
NOTE: Weld bead width (W) should be approximately twice the diameter for the electrode rod used.
Normal Amps,
Arc Length,
Speed
Amperage Too Low
Amperage Too High
Arc Length Too Short
Figure 7 - Weld Appearance
Work Piece
Speed Too Fast
Speed Too Slow
Arc Length Too Long
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