New to Me Dialarc 250 Test Beads

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Critique as desired.  I'll learn from it.  1/4" steel, Lincoln 7018AC 3/32 rods, Dialarc 250 on DCEP at 90 amps.First time I've really tried to lay beads with this.  I'm a hobby guy not a pro welder.
Reply:Why use AC rods while running DC current??
Reply:AK, good question.  It's what I had on hand tonight.  These also are for AC or DC+ according to the box.  They are low hydrogen apparently.
Reply:Originally Posted by wannab1AK, good question.  It's what I had on hand tonight.  These also are for AC or DC+ according to the box.  They are low hydrogen apparently.
Reply:Try running straight stringer beads without any weave or rod motion. And from what I can see from my armchair your arc length is a bit too long. Keep it up, you're doing greatTeach Ag Mech - Mike At Home:Lincoln Electric AC225Miller Challenger 172Gas AxeWork:eclectic bunch of 90's vintage blue boxes
Reply:Originally Posted by AKweldshopSince you have a DC machine, I'd recommend running to you LWS and picking up some 10lb cans of Excalibur 7018...Just my two cents....
Reply:Ok gents, thanks for the advice.  I'm almost out of the Lincoln anyway.  I'll pick up some Excalibur 7018 and I'll repost when I get them for further critique.
Reply:Originally Posted by wannab1Ok gents, thanks for the advice.  I'm almost out of the Lincoln anyway.  I'll pick up some Excalibur 7018 and I'll repost when I get them for further critique.
Reply:Originally Posted by woodtick007Looking at the beads you ran. I would have never thought you were not a professional welder fabricator.Have you tried cranking up the power on the Dialarc to see if you can brownout your neighbors power/lights?  lolBut no....seriously. The dialarc is a great welder.  I have a Dialarc 250HF and it has been nothing but dependable.
Reply:Here's a crazy thought... Have you tried the 7018AC on AC? Sent by a dumb smartphoneTeach Ag Mech - Mike At Home:Lincoln Electric AC225Miller Challenger 172Gas AxeWork:eclectic bunch of 90's vintage blue boxes
Reply:is that horizontal? Try turning up the amps to 100 to110