Breaking the arc with stainless scratch/lift tig

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I know scratch start has been used since the beginning and there are always claims to many x ray quality welds out there, so my question is how are you guys breaking the arc or finishing the weld while still keeping enough gas coverage to prevent discoloration or contamination in the weld? I have no issues with hf but the very little scratch/lift that I have to do I get contamination at the end. Only thing I can really think of is to run on to a piece of scrap or something.Millermatic 252Lincoln 175 plusTA 185tswTA 161stlhypertherm pmax 45Victor torchHenrob torchAn S10 for each day of the week
Reply:Nothing to it. Snap the torch away from the work to break the arc, then quickly bring the torch back over the weld to alow for a little post flow of shielding gas to cover the weld and cool the torch.JasonLincoln Idealarc 250 stick/tigThermal Dynamics Cutmaster 52Miller Bobcat 250Torchmate CNC tableThermal Arc Hefty 2Ironworkers Local 720
Reply:Originally Posted by snoeproeNothing to it. Snap the torch away from the work to break the arc, then quickly bring the torch back over the weld to alow for a little post flow of shielding gas to cover the weld and cool the torch.
Reply:I agree with just pulling away, or turning the torch until the arc breaks, then swing back in for the gas.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:I can pull the torch away as fast as i can and it seems as though it needs at least an inch to break the arc and by that time the weld is already contaminated. I have tried tilting it away and pulling straight up. Even with lots of gas flow so when I pull it away there is still some coverage. I guess I will just have to find some time to sit down and take a few days to try and get it to work. I use scratch start probably three times a year so I hate to spend a bunch of time but you want it done right then gotta practice I guess.Millermatic 252Lincoln 175 plusTA 185tswTA 161stlhypertherm pmax 45Victor torchHenrob torchAn S10 for each day of the week