Welding allows the joining of two metal components by creating a durable seam. This seam is often created using a tungsten rod that helps fuse two metal components together. A TIG welder is a common tool used in conjunction with tungsten welding rods.
If you notice that your TIG welder is burning through tungsten rods at a faster rate than usual, there are some simple things you can do to troubleshoot the problem and get your welding equipment working properly once again.
1. Check your gas flow.
One of the things that can affect the usage rate of tungsten is the flow of gas through your TIG welder. Inadequate gas flow will result in faster tungsten usage, so you should check your gas flow when you notice accelerated tungsten use.
Be sure to verify that your gas hose fittings are secure and that there aren't any cracks or leaks in your hose lines. Check for kinks in the hose and ensure that your gas tank is full. Correcting gas flow issues will often restore proper function to your TIG welder.
2. Reduce the heat in your torch body.
Your TIG welder's torch body can become very hot during welding. Excessive heat could cause you to burn through tungsten faster than normal, and it could also cause significant damage to your welding equipment if not addressed immediately.
One of the primary causes of excessive heat in a welder's torch body is an inadequate supply of coolant. Check to see that you have enough coolant in your reservoir and clear out any blockages that might be restricting the flow of coolant through the torch body while it is in use.
3. Use a larger tungsten rod.
The tungsten rods that are used with TIG welders come in a variety of sizes. If you are using a rod with a diameter that is too small, you may notice that you burn through tungsten rods a lot quicker.
Upgrade to a larger rod that is more compatible with your TIG welding equipment and you will see a significant reduction in your tungsten usage.
Maintaining your TIG welding equipment is essential when it comes to the integrity of your welds. Burning through tungsten rods could be indicative of an inadequate gas supply, insufficient coolant, or improper rod size. Correcting these issues will help you ensure that your welder runs with maximum efficiency in the future. Contact a supplier, like Vern Lewis Welding Supply Inc, for more help.
Share