8.7 HF present but no welding power
8.8 Arc wanders during DC welding
8.9 Arc wanders during AC welding
POSSIBLE REASON SUGGESTED SOLUTION
Incomplete welding circuit Confirm that the ground clamp is connected. Check
all cable connections. Check that the power cable is
not separated.
No gas Check that correct type of tungsten is being used.
Too much current for the tungsten size so reduce
the amps or change to a larger tungsten.
Incorrect filler wire Check the filler wire and change if necessary.
POSSIBLE REASON SUGGESTED SOLUTION
Poor gas flow Check and set the gas flow between 15–25 CFH
(7–12 LMN) flow rate.
Incorrect arc length Lower torch so that the tungsten is o of the work
piece 1/8”–1/4” (3.2– 6.35mm).
Tungsten incorrect or in poor condition Check that correct type of tungsten is being used.
Remove 3/8” (10mm) from the weld end of the
tungsten and re‑sharpen the tungsten.
Poorly prepared tungsten Grind marks should run lengthwise with tungsten,
not circular. Use proper grinding method and wheel.
Contaminated base metal Remove contaminating materials like paint, grease,
oil, and dirt, including mill scale from base metal.
Contaminated filler wire Remove all grease, oil, or moisture from filler metal.
Incorrect filler wire Check the filler wire and change if necessary.
POSSIBLE REASON SUGGESTED SOLUTION
Inadequate gas flow Set the gas flow between 15–25 CFH (7–12 LMN)
flow rate.
Incorrect arc length Set the torch so that the tungsten is o of the work
piece 1/8”–1/4” (3.2– 6.35mm).
Tungsten is contaminated Check and change the size and or the tungsten if
required.
Incorrect tungsten size and or tungsten being used Grind marks should run lengthwise with tungsten,
not circular. Use proper grinding method and wheel.
Excessive rectification in the base metal Increase balance control. Increase travel speed. Add
filler wire during welding.
Contaminated base metal Remove all grease, oil, or moisture from filler metal.
Incorrect filler wire Remove contaminating materials like paint, grease,
oil, and dirt, including mill scale from base metal.
7.2 GTAW (TIG)