TIG - GTAW

TIG Variables

Current (Amps)

Ballpark setting is one amp per thousandths inch of thickness.  

• 1/8" = 0.125 --> 125 amps

• 3/32" = 0.09375" -->  94 amps

• 1/16" = 0.0625 --> 62 amps

Stick Out

1.5x cup diameter maximum

Guidelines for the Multi-Matic 215

TIG Startup Procedure for mild steel

1. Clean your metal - no mill scale!

2. Check that tungsten is clean and sharp

3. Confirm work clamp it attached to positive

4. Confirm torch cable is attached to negative

5. Turn machine on to TIG Lift Arc Remote

6. Open Argon cylinder valve

7. Adjust regulator adjusting handle until gage reads about 13 CFH

8. To start arc using Lift Arc, touch electrode to base metal, step on pedal, lift up torch. 

Running TIG Beads

• Read What I've Learned About TIG

• Establish puddle, don't start until you see the spinning eye of the devil.  

• Touching tungsten to puddle or filler metal will require repointing your tungsten 

• Easy on the peddle, use enough heat to maintain the desired bead.  Too much will mess up your weld and cause electrode to melt.  If the electrode is balled over when you stop, you're running it too hot.

• Add filler by dipping it in the puddle, never use the arc to melt it.

• Keep the filler at a low angle, and the hot end near the argon gas shielding.  Bringing it in/out introduces oxides that will contaminate the weld.

• Keep a close arc!  i.e. one electrode diameter

• Re-read What I've Learned About TIG

Shutdown Procedure

1. Close Argon gas cylinder valve (righty-tighty.....)

2. Press pedal a few times until both gages read zero

3. Back out regulator adjusting handle (do NOT tighten)

4. Shutoff machine 

5. Disconnect and wrap both cables properly.