If you are using a TIG welder, you need to familiarize yourself with and understand the different settings that you need to choose based on your project. Below, we define and differentiate between the variety of setting selections on a TIG welder so that you can properly use and get the best performance out of your welding machine.
TIG Welder Settings Selection
Below are the eight different TIG welding settings that you must select based on what you are welding and what the project is. Make sure your welder is turned off and unplugged before adjusting these settings in the following order:
- AC/DC – You will need to select the type of current (AC or DC) your welder will use depending on the material. The AC setting is used for welding aluminum while the DC setting is mainly used for welding steel, including stainless steel.
- Clearance Effect – If you are welding in the DC setting, you can disregard this setting. However, if you are welding in AC, you will need to set the clearance effect, which controls how much cleaning occurs versus how much penetration occurs during welding. When the value is more positive, the result will be greater cleaning and less penetration, and when the effect value is more negative, the result will be greater penetration and less cleaning.
- Foot Pedal/Panel Control – You will need to determine whether or not you want to use a foot pedal or the knob panel to control the amperage output and general welding arc starting and stopping.
- Amperage – This setting is very important as it determines how much amp output is being delivered to the torch. On the front panel of a welding machine, there us an output amperage knob that adjusts how many amps are used while welding. The thicker the metal, the higher the amperage. If you are using the foot pedal, the amperage is controlled by a knob on the side of the pedal.
- Pre Flow – This setting is adjusted by a pre flow knob, which controls the time (in seconds) that the shielding gas begins to flow after the welding trigger is pressed before the arc starts.
- Post Flow – This setting is adjusted by a post flow knob, which controls the time (in seconds) that the shielding gas continues to flow after the welding trigger is released.
- Power Switch – Once you have selected all of the previous settings, it is time to plug in and turn on your TIG welder.
- Shielding Gas Flow – Once the welder is on and functioning, set the gas flow rate to the appropriate value using the knob on the left side of the regulator.
Now that all of your settings have been properly adjusted, you are free to start using your TIG welder with the appropriate power and accuracy that you need.
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