Longevity STICKWELD 315 - Manual (Page 17)

250/315 DC ARC Welders
Page 16 of 25
STICK/ARC Welding
(Also known as MMA-Manual Metal Arc or Shielded Metal Arc Welding-SMAW)
Connect the Stick torch to the - terminal and Torch Control receptacles.
Connect the ground clamp to the + terminal and clamp the metal to be welded. Reverse the torch
and ground connections for DCEP (Direct Current Electrode Positive).
DC Stick - Select Stick, DC, desired amps using Base cur knob, Pulse Mode off.
1. Insert electrode into electrode holder. Position the electrode for the most comfortable position so
that the electrode can be held directly over the work piece with a slight angle.
2. Set Amperage to the recommended amperage by the electrode manufacturer. Strike an arc by
swiping it briskly across the work piece in the same manner as one would strike a match.
Alternatively, you may strike an arc with firm tapping motion against the work piece. Either
method is acceptable. An arc should initiate. Continue to keep the arc going by holding the
electrode off the work piece no more than the electrode width.
3. Continue the arc by feeding the electrode into the weld puddle while moving the electrode
forward. This will take some coordination, but will be fairly easy to do after practice. Do not allow
the arc to become too long, because air and slag can become entrapped in the metal. The sound of a
proper arc will be similar to a gentle frying sound. A long arc will emit a humming sound. An arc
that is too short may be extinguished and the electrode may stick to the work piece. If the electrode
sticks, immediately release the electrode from the electrode holder and break the electrode loose by
hand. If the flux breaks off, simply trim off the excess rod until flux and bare metal meet. A
welding rod must have flux to shield the weld from the atmosphere or the weld will fail.
4. Use the Current control to change arc qualities. Adjust the amperage according to the
recommendations of the electrode (welding rod) manufacturer for the type and size of the electrode
used. Experimentation will be required to find the optimal setting desired. It is an excellent tool for
out of position welding.
5. Electrode selection. Electrodes are usually given performance and characteristic ratings using a
system of letters and numbers determined by the American Welding Society (AWS). The rating
system includes the minimum tensile strength of the finished weld, the weld position (flat, vertical,