Radnor Tungsten splitting and exploding

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Anyone else experiencing this? I am using 2% Thoriated, 1/16 ac welding aluminum, on an Invertec V205-t ac/dc. 100 amps, 100hz frequency, 70% electrode negative.The damn tip shoots tungsten into my welds when im pulsing the pedal,,,I hear there are better brands, like Sylvania.....Im tired of this radnor stuff
Reply:Originally Posted by HobbyWelderAnyone else experiencing this? I am using 2% Thoriated, 1/16 ac welding aluminum, on an Invertec V205-t ac/dc. 100 amps, 100hz frequency, 70% electrode negative.The damn tip shoots tungsten into my welds when im pulsing the pedal,,,I hear there are better brands, like Sylvania.....Im tired of this radnor stuff :angry:
Reply:Thoriated sucks on AC. Ceriated or Lanthathed are the tungstens to use. Go up to 3/32 for that kinda amperage too. How are you sharpening your tungsten? (what shape?)I used Sylvania's GTP electrodes at work, they're ok. 1/8" Thoriated @ 220+amps and 120hz on a Dynasty300 and they still get ****ty pretty quick. Really wish they would have switched to Ceriated and put me on the only Dynasty350 (shop is full of Syncrowaves and Dynasty300s), but what can you do! Still put this down with a piece of tungsten that was trashed though:
Reply:Originally Posted by dave powelson-100 Amps is a whole lot to push thru 1/16 electrode-try 3/32 or 1/8-I've never wanted to try Radnor branded tungsten-presumably the tungsten is ground to a gradual point with a slight blunt on the end, etc.?-Lincoln has some basic setup parameters that wouldn't hurt you to look at-the sticky linked below "GTAW of Aluminum" can answer many of your questions--beforeyou can even think to ask them:http://weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=51983
Reply:It is the wrong kind of tungsten for ac welding. AfroIntegra is right you need to be using 3/32 or larger ceriated, or lanthinated sharpened to a point. I use the Radnor electrodes at work and I do not have any problems like that.
Reply:Originally Posted by gateheadIt is the wrong kind of tungsten for ac welding. AfroIntegra is right you need to be using 3/32 or larger ceriated, or lanthinated sharpened to a point. I use the Radnor electrodes at work and I do not have any problems like that.
Reply:it is not the tungsten's fault....it's just the WRONG tungsten for your INVERTER machine for AC welding of aluminium !use 3/32 lanthanated or ceriated, brand matters less, 3/32 will cover all your amp range, and they are also good for any other material AC or DC ..I will never understand why ppl want to use thoriated when Lanthanated can be used for everything and will handle more amps...--------------------------------------------------------------www.becmotors.nlyup, I quit welding.. joined welder anonymous
Reply:Hobby Welder,Nothing worse than a guy coming on the board, asking a question, and then claiming to KNOW IT ALL.If you already had all the answers, why the he11 did you waste people's time?Thoriated tungsten is not the best choice for AC welding.  There have been many posts on this subject.  Lanthanated or Ceriated are better choices on an inverter.3/32" tungsten (properly prepared) is a much better choice.Syncro 250 DX Dynasty 200 DXMM 251 w/30A SG XMT 304 w/714 Feeder & Optima PulserHH187Dialarc 250 AC/DCHypertherm PM 1250Smith, Harris, Victor O/ASmith and Thermco Gas MixersAccess to a full fab shop with CNC Plasma, Water Jet, etc.
Reply:Originally Posted by HobbyWelderGood 2% Thoriated 1/16 rod should handle 70 amps no problem, this garbage doesnt even handle 50 amps, it spits. I guarantee it. I see no one knows a quality tungsten. I am not using 100 amps, it is what the welder is set to This garbage tungsten spits at 50 amps and below.I will just have to try a different brand. Thanks for trying gentlemen.
Reply:Oldiron2,LMAOThink you're on to something there.Syncro 250 DX Dynasty 200 DXMM 251 w/30A SG XMT 304 w/714 Feeder & Optima PulserHH187Dialarc 250 AC/DCHypertherm PM 1250Smith, Harris, Victor O/ASmith and Thermco Gas MixersAccess to a full fab shop with CNC Plasma, Water Jet, etc.
Reply:I had forgotten about putting the tungsten in upside down. I suppose he can just ignore my earlier post. LMAO
Reply:You obviously have the tungsten in upside down! Don't blame the brand!
Reply:ha! Gotta love that OPERATOR ERROR!
Reply:With a properly inserted tungsten (not upside down), it will fart rather than spit.Syncro 250 DX Dynasty 200 DXMM 251 w/30A SG XMT 304 w/714 Feeder & Optima PulserHH187Dialarc 250 AC/DCHypertherm PM 1250Smith, Harris, Victor O/ASmith and Thermco Gas MixersAccess to a full fab shop with CNC Plasma, Water Jet, etc.
Reply:try some radnor
Reply:Originally Posted by SundownIIIHobby Welder,Nothing worse than a guy coming on the board, asking a question, and then claiming to KNOW IT ALL.If you already had all the answers, why the he11 did you waste people's time?Thoriated tungsten is not the best choice for AC welding.  There have been many posts on this subject.  Lanthanated or Ceriated are better choices on an inverter.3/32" tungsten (properly prepared) is a much better choice.
Reply:Not all electrodes are created equal: there are quality electrodes and there are ones of substandard quality. (Radnor) A quality electrode is one with uniform oxide distribution in the tungsten matrix. Finely and uniformly distributed oxides have a positive effect on such welding properties as arc stability, ignition behavior, consumption rate and service lifetime.From the Folks at Miller........ http://www.millerwelds.com/resources...ten-Selection/The question was for a better brand....... Nobody has answered, instead just insults...
Reply:2% Thoriated 2% thoriated tungsten electrodes (AWS classification EWTh-2) contain a minimum of 97.30% tungsten and 1.70 to 2.20% thorium. They are the most commonly used electrodes today and are preferred for their longevity and ease of use. Thorium increases the electron emission qualities of the electrode, which improves arc starts and allows for a higher current carrying capacity. This electrode operates far below its melting temperature, which results in a considerably lower rate of consumption and minimizes arc wandering for greater stability. It also features a lower level of weld contamination than other electrodes.These electrodes can be used for AC welding, and they are exceptional for DC electrode negative (straight polarity) on carbon and stainless steel, nickel and titanium applications.During manufacturing, thorium is evenly dispersed throughout the electrode. This evenness allows the electrode to maintain a sharpened edge—the ideal electrode shape for welding thin steel. Sharpening the electrode’s point, however, should be done with great care. Thoriated tungsten contains low levels of radioactivity. Therefore, you must always follow manufacture’s warnings, instructions and the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for its use.From the folks at WELDCRAFThttp://www.weldcraft.com/2007/01/sel...en-electrodes/
Reply:Bunch of rude f'n jerks on here...... Show some literature from experts next time...I asked for a better brand then Radnor! So far nothing! HaHaHa!
Reply:Originally Posted by HobbyWelderNot all electrodes are created equal: there are quality electrodes and there are ones of substandard quality. (Radnor) A quality electrode is one with uniform oxide distribution in the tungsten matrix. Finely and uniformly distributed oxides have a positive effect on such welding properties as arc stability, ignition behavior, consumption rate and service lifetime.From the Folks at Miller........ http://www.millerwelds.com/resources...ten-Selection/The question was for a better brand....... Nobody has answered, instead just insults... :gunsfirin
Reply:Originally Posted by HobbyWelderBunch of rude f'n jerks on here...... Show some literature from experts next time...I asked for a better brand then Radnor! So far nothing! HaHaHa! :angry:
Reply:Don't blame the arrow.  Blame the Indian.  Hobbywelder.....My name's not Jim....
Reply:Originally Posted by dave powelsonOkay--you want a brand recco--Arc Zone---sells 3 paks of CK branded tungsten.I prefer the ceriated.
Reply:[QUOTE=dave powelson;1019571]My initial reply to you was not insulting. You haven't indicated if you've bothered to pursue setup parameters as previously suggested.I don't doubt that the Radnor branded tungsten may be problematic. I've had problems with other products of their generic brand.One tip--on any electrode brand--that will readily show up splitting and spitting is IF--prior to grinding,the electrode has been clipped off by side cutters or broken by snapping or a chisel.This creates fractures up the fresh tungsten, which then become splits and spits.Additionally on your setup parameters---running 70% EN on AC---means 70% of the power isgoing thru that electrode. The more power thru the electrode--the harder it is on any electrode.(I 'normally' run 10% EN---which may be considered 'extreme' by some...but for my purposes on new stock, used, clean or internally polluted AL castings---it works.) The lower the AC frequency---the more heat into the work. Yes, the arc is not as stiff,but that's not a deal-breaker for those with some bench time. AL is all about getting focusedheat into the work, as quickly as possible. (I 'normally' run 20 CPS AC frequency, increasing that only if i really need a stiffer arc.)Any manufacturer's reccos on setup is just a guide--a starting point. If you haven't playedwith changing parameters--do so. The catch is doing so, is one needs to know whateffect they're looking for.....which comes with bench time.[/Q]Electrode negative is penetration, so in fact im keeping 70% off the electrode, to avoid the splitting and spitting, Radnor tungsten is not the best, i dont care if you guys want to keep putting me down.Plenty of literature i posted to prove my point that there is better tungsten, and my settings are fine.I came here for tungsten reco's not advice on how to weld. I do that just fine.http://www.millerwelds.com/resources...Book_Chpt2.pdf Attached Images
Reply:Originally Posted by BoostinjdmDon't blame the arrow.  Blame the Indian.  Hobbywelder.....Moderator, can you shut this post down, or remove it, people did not read, i wanted tungsten Reco's not advice on welding. Got insults for the most part. I will google my question. Thanks all.
Reply:"Well if you are looking for the most premium U.S.A. made brand I would say that would be Sylvania. Their tungsten is probably one of the best out there. You can also look at Diamond Ground Products. They are also a high quality brand. I have used the DGP before and it is excellent. They have some white colored tip that is cryogenically treated and if you wanna talk about tip life, that stuff is insane. I have never used something that lasted that long - EVER! It is just red tip frozen. I prefer to use gold tip tungsten though, for everything. It is 1½% lanthanated tungsten and I always grind it to a tip and then grind a little flat spot on the end. I have used the gold tip ground like I just mentioned on steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, titanium, magnesium, and a variety of cast metals. Usually they say only taper the tip if you are using an inverter on aluminum, but the tapered tip on aluminum works on transformers as well. As for brands I worked at Airgas so I typically always used their own brand called Radnor. The Radnor is made in China but I never once had a problem with it. I did have a customer that had some Radnor red tip split, and also some Radnor red tip explode at the tip. But for the price it is worth it I think, typically 1/5 the price of Sylvania, so even if you had one piece go bad out of each box you would still be significantly cheaper than Sylvania though. If you go to DGP's website and get in contact with them they will send you a couple free pieces for samples. That is how I got my white tips from them, two pieces for free. So that is my two cents on tungsten selection for you... Reply back and let us know what you end up going with... Oh and p.s. Grey tip is also something you might wanna try too. See Ya Later......."Posted by a Brian Mapes on a website race-dezert.comClearly states that Radnor is made in China, splits and spitts. Cheap is not quality, and Quality isnt Cheap.http://www.race-dezert.com/forum/arc...p/t-85680.html
Reply:http://www.diamondground.comLooks like these guys know their tungsten.
Reply:Originally Posted by HobbyWelder"Well if you are looking for the most premium U.S.A. made brand I would say that would be Sylvania. Their tungsten is probably one of the best out there. You can also look at Diamond Ground Products. They are also a high quality brand. I have used the DGP before and it is excellent. They have some white colored tip that is cryogenically treated and if you wanna talk about tip life, that stuff is insane. I have never used something that lasted that long - EVER! It is just red tip frozen. I prefer to use gold tip tungsten though, for everything. It is 1½% lanthanated tungsten and I always grind it to a tip and then grind a little flat spot on the end. I have used the gold tip ground like I just mentioned on steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, titanium, magnesium, and a variety of cast metals. Usually they say only taper the tip if you are using an inverter on aluminum, but the tapered tip on aluminum works on transformers as well. As for brands I worked at Airgas so I typically always used their own brand called Radnor. The Radnor is made in China but I never once had a problem with it. I did have a customer that had some Radnor red tip split, and also some Radnor red tip explode at the tip. But for the price it is worth it I think, typically 1/5 the price of Sylvania, so even if you had one piece go bad out of each box you would still be significantly cheaper than Sylvania though. If you go to DGP's website and get in contact with them they will send you a couple free pieces for samples. That is how I got my white tips from them, two pieces for free. So that is my two cents on tungsten selection for you... Reply back and let us know what you end up going with... Oh and p.s. Grey tip is also something you might wanna try too. See Ya Later......."Posted by a Brian Mapes on a website race-dezert.comClearly states that Radnor is made in China, splits and spitts. Cheap is not quality, and Quality isnt Cheap.http://www.race-dezert.com/forum/arc...p/t-85680.html
Reply:I just bought a 10pack of  import 3/32 1.5% lanthanated tungsten for $14 with free shipping off of ebay,  the ebay add said they had bought some of Riland's stock in a storage unit.. I figured I would give it a try..  I run an inverter machine myself.. about all I use is 3/32. I'm planning on just using lanthanated only and possibly selling the rest of my tungsten..just never cared for Radnor products..Last edited by brucer; 04-10-2012 at 12:38 PM.tackleexperts.comwww.necessityjigs.comhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mach...dingequipment/
Reply:I have been using cheap radnor 3/32 gold 1/5% lanth for some time and have zero issues on steel or alum ac or dc. Got some 2% lanth as well to try next.I agree with the other guys. Its operator error. Electrode too small for the amps and/or dipping the tung in the puddle, etc. I have used lots of different brand tungstens, I am convinced it really doesn't matter which brand you use, as long as you know what your doing with it, and choose the right size/type.
Reply:OP, for lack of nice words, is an ***.Hobart EZ-Tig newbie.
Reply:Originally Posted by HobbyWelderModerator, can you shut this post down, or remove it, people did not read, i wanted tungsten Reco's not advice on welding. Got insults for the most part. I will google my question. Thanks all.
Reply:ArcZone hybrid performance tungstens are very good. The color is sky blue and the customer service is good. Weldcraft and Radnor are both made in china. I believe I have a set of Radnor 2% thor made 20 years ago but i believe they were made in the us back then. Hope this helps.Hypertherm Powermax45Miller auto 140 migMiller Econotig Watercooledwith wp24w TorchLincoln Power255XTNew(Lincoln V205 ac/dc)Miller Elite Helmet
Reply:For the record, I need to correct my mis-statement in post #20 of this thread.Additionally on your setup parameters---running 70% EN on AC---means 70% of the power isgoing thru that electrode. The more power thru the electrode--the harder it is on any electrode.(I 'normally' run 10% EN---which may be considered 'extreme' by some...but for my purposeson new stock, used, clean or internally polluted AL castings---it works.) 70% EN means that 30% of the power is thru the electrodeI normally run 90% EN.....which on a TD 300 GTSW panel shows as 'max pen' with asetting of 10%.....not the way that Miller or Lincoln show the AC balance function.........Yup! This can be confusing.(Sundown III quietly flagged this to me, which I appreciate.)Blackbird
Reply:Originally Posted by AfroIntegraThoriated sucks on AC. Ceriated or Lanthathed are the tungstens to use. Go up to 3/32 for that kinda amperage too. How are you sharpening your tungsten? (what shape?)I used Sylvania's GTP electrodes at work, they're ok. 1/8" Thoriated @ 220+amps and 120hz on a Dynasty300 and they still get ****ty pretty quick. Really wish they would have switched to Ceriated and put me on the only Dynasty350 (shop is full of Syncrowaves and Dynasty300s), but what can you do! Still put this down with a piece of tungsten that was trashed though:
Reply:Keep the thread as an example so others who ignore manufacturers most current literature will get the hint.  Show some literature from experts next time...
Reply:It's one thing to just be dumb.To be dumb and hardheaded, a guy doesn't have much of a chance.Syncro 250 DX Dynasty 200 DXMM 251 w/30A SG XMT 304 w/714 Feeder & Optima PulserHH187Dialarc 250 AC/DCHypertherm PM 1250Smith, Harris, Victor O/ASmith and Thermco Gas MixersAccess to a full fab shop with CNC Plasma, Water Jet, etc.
Reply:Originally Posted by HobbyWelderThank you. Finally a brand i can check out.
Reply:Bad Electrodes is like bad gas, possible but very rare.What gas are you using?Sure you can use Thoriated for AC Ally I do often (note: both my machines are Transformers not inverters) , I prefer Lathinated but if Thoriated is in the torch I will rarely change it. 1/16 is too small for ally and will underline the limitations of Thoriated.Have you tried your 1/16 Radnor electrodes on SS or Mild Steel? what did they do ? and what does that tell you?You cannot purchase your way to abilityA good guess is better than a bad measurement
Reply:Originally Posted by HobbyWelderhttp://www.diamondground.comLooks like these guys know their tungsten.