Product Manual

Page 34 of 47
2. GROUND CLAMP CONNECTION
Clear any dirt, rust, scale, oil, or paint on the ground clamp. Make certain you have a good
solid ground connection. A poor connection at the ground clamp will waste power and heat.
Make sure the ground clamp touches the metal.
3. ELECTRODE
The welding electrode is a rod coated with a layer of flux. When welding, electrical current
flows between the electrode (rod) and the grounded metal work piece. The intense heat of the
arc between the rod and the grounded metal melts the electrode and the flux.
4. SELECTING THE PROPER ELECTRODE
There is no golden rule that determines the exact rod or heat setting required for every
situation. The type and thickness of metal and the position of the work piece determine the
electrode type and the amount of heat needed in the welding process. Heavier and thicker
metals require more amperage. It is best to practice your welds on scrap metals which match
the metal you intend to work with to determine correct heat setting and electrode choice. See
the following troubleshooting tips to determine if you are using a correct electrode.