A way to simulate bump tig welding/ pipe welding:

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I was asked a while back about issues with tigging on pipe. Hell, I can seem to do fine welding up a roll cage, and most days I can weld anodized aluminum and SS on boats pretty well. But many times, it's all you can do to just get an arc struck and run that bead, let alone jockey the pedal properly.And once you think you are pretty good, then you will watch a pipe welder as he does his thing, and you will be tripping BALLS trying to figure how he can do it with no arc manipulation. And then, you will watch an aluminum tower fabricator, and you will be certain you are in over your head.There is a way to simulate the welding they do, while using the pedal. It is also a VERY GOOD technique for aluminum pipe welding, as well as thicker aluminum plate welding.Set your machine up as usual, whatever settings you usually use. DC or AC, it matters not. Now, set your upslope for a low number. Set the starting voltage or amps fairly high if you have the ability to do so. Set the downslope to a low number.Set the welder in 2T, not 4T. (If set in 4T, you have to hit the pedal another time, and when welding upside down on aluminum overhead, you want as few hassles as possible....) Now, set the control to LOCAL, not REMOTE. By setting in remote, the pedal modulates power. By setting local, the pedal delivers in only a 5% range, ie if you set at 100A, the pedal will start at 90, and go to 100. Almost no modulation. At 200amps, you get from 180 to 200A. Yes, it sounds crazy. But in short order, you will learn quickly what it feels like to use a bump switch without having to buy one. And it will teach you how to control the puddle by cutting it off and restarting it on aluminum. It is the BEST way to 'push' anodizing off the weld, so you can add filler. It gives you a very quick hot start on aluminum, to create a puddle right now fast, so you can start filling rather than trying to form a puddle.The only drawback for you will be closing out a weld, you will find that especially on aluminum, it will want to crater because you are cutting it off instantly, rather than sloping down. But you will learn how to let it cool, then stab the pedal and add a finish dab.And then, after so much work...... you have it in your hand, and you look over to your side...... and the runner has run off. Leaving you holding the prize, wondering when the runner will return.
Reply:how about using a torch with a switch and some downslope , I never used a pedal bet it's pretty nice --------------------------------------------------------------www.becmotors.nlyup, I quit welding.. joined welder anonymous
Reply:Originally Posted by Donoharmhow about using a torch with a switch and some downslope , I never used a pedal bet it's pretty nice