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Downslope whether in 2T or 4T requires another movement of the torch switch. This allows you to ramp down the heat from the welding amps.

While 2T can work with the foot pedal in TIG units like the Power TIG 200 DV and Power TIG 250 EX, 4T is exclusively designed for the torch switch as it shifts the welder to the next phase of the weld cycle.In the case of the start amps, pressing and holding starts the arc, but releasing the switch signals the welder to step to the next phase, which is upslope. Upslope is presented as a unit of time (seconds).

Although the vast majority of TIG machines sold in the US are sold with a foot pedal, the US and a few other countries are the exception, rather than the rule. We’ve discussed this before, but it’s worth discussing again, as repetition promotes retention right? Although people frequently want all the bells and whistles on their new inverter AC/DC TIG machine, or at least all they can afford, few realize that these bells and whistles are designed for advanced features that are not used with the foot pedal.

I’ve had a unique position over the last 7 years of being able to help and mentor other up and coming young welders. It is a pleasure to work with these men and women.

Stainless will warp and distort when welding more than standard varieties of mild steel. This is due to how Stainless conducts heat. 

It may come as a surprise to many people that are interested in a TIG welder for welding stainless, that stick welding is a common way that stainless is welded. In fact, in the field where stainless is subjected to the elements, and where welding conditions are not favorable, stick is the only real choice.  It is also used to weld stainless where thick weldments are being employed, speeding up the process.  However, stick welding stainless is not something for a beginner.

For those of us that use auto darkening helmets or are contemplating a new purchase of one, we often wonder if we are getting good or adequate eye protection with our welding helmet, particularly if we bought a cheapo or ours is getting a little tired. The good news is that most welding helmets in the past 10 years or so, even the cheap ones offer excellent eye protection even in the clear state against UV light from a welding arc.

Well, if you haven’t straightened up your shop in a while, this time of year is the perfect time to do some early spring cleaning, before the busy season starts.Taking care of clutter is important. Looking over my own shop from the past year, even though it’s had a few stem to stern cleanings already over the past year, I see stuff that has gotten put in the corners that could possibly be a fire hazard or just simply does not need to be there.

Acetone is a good, and relatively safe solvent that can be used to deal with layers of oil based paint quite quickly. However, it works slower than grinding, but it evaporates quickly and leaves little residue. The problem with this is that Acetone has its own health concerns while applying it and should always be used with protective gloves and a respirator. It is a concern in the environment and clean air standards in some states and may have restrictions on its use, so be aware of your local regulations concerning its use.

Welding over paint is not a wise thing to do. In fact, welding and working with previously painted objects is quite problematic, no matter how you look at it. First, it can create noxious fumes and excessive smoke while welding. Many older items have paint full of lead. The temptation is to take a 6010 or 6011 welding rod and just weld right through it, if you are welding with a stick welder, or grab some 70S-6 wire if you are MIG welder and hope for the best in non critical applications.