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STRIKING THE ARC - WELDING

The most difficult aspect of the arc welding process, particularly for beginners,

is that of striking an arc. We strongly recommend that you practice on some

pieces of scrap metal to get the feel of the operation, before you start on an

actual welding job.

1. Hold the electrode about 10 mm from the work and at an angle of about

70° to 80° to the work surface; take care not to accidentally touch the

workpiece until you are ready to start.

2. Holding the welding mask close-up to your face, give a short stroke with

the electrode on the workpiece. As soon as the arc is primed, withdraw the

electrode from the workpiece to leave a tiny gap of around 1.5mm (1/

16”). The current will flow across the gap with a crackling noise and a

brilliant arc. Continue to weld in one direction, maintaining the small gap

as you go.

NOTE: When you prime the arc, be sure to withdraw the electrode swiftly

to leave the 1.5 mm. gap, otherwise the electrode will weld itself

to the workpiece. If this occurs give the electrode a short sharp

jerk to free it and, if necessary, prime the arc again. If you cannot

free the electrode, switch the machine off immediately and free

it. Take care the electrode will get red hot very quickly and will be

capable of burning through welding gloves.

3. At the end of the run, just lift the electrode away from the workpiece.

4. Inspect the job carefully. Any slag forming on the surface should be

chipped away with a chipping hammer or pick. ALWAYS wear your safety

goggles when chipping away slag.

WARNING: WHEN WELDING ALWAYS ENSURE THERE IS ADEQUATE

VENTILATION IN THE WORK AREA AS THE WELDING PROCESS GIVES OFF

TOXIC FUMES.

WARNING: WELDING ARCS PRODUCE HARMFUL UV/IR LIGHT WHICH CAN

SERIOUSLY DAMAGE YOUR EYES. ALWAYS USE A WELDING HELMET WITH

A SUITABLE FILTER THAT CONFORMS TO CURRENT STANDARDS.

WARNING: NEVER LOOK AT THE ARC WITHOUT A SUITABLE WELDING

MASK

WARNING: PROTECT BYSTANDERS BY USING WELDING SCREENS/

CURTAINS.