Whoa! Wobbly arc caused by magnets?

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Hi,I am teaching myself how to TIG weld.I have a Thermal Arc 185 AC/DC. I was welding some 16 gauge mild steel 1" square tube.  90 amps, HF start. Pulse.I was holding 2 chunks together with 2 magnet clamps when I noticed something freaky: the arc started wavering back and forth, alternating from side to side.When I took the magnets off, it no longer did it.Is this normal? Can magnetic fields make the arc move around as you pass through them? r was this just a coincidence?Thanks.An odd fellow, but nice enough. I build "interesting" things.
Reply:i had the same experience when I was stick welding. I have heard of people using the magnet in certain areas to help with penetration or something?HTP Invertig 201Lincoln Idealarc SP250Miller 180 AC StickBy farmall:They should have held the seagull closer to the work, squeezing evenly for best deposition.
Reply:I use magnets a lot but not within 12" of the weld if I can. I've had the arc blow back at me a little when I've had the magnet to close. For the most I just use them to tack in place then I remove them.My Photos on Flickr
Reply:Originally Posted by ThaddeusHi,Is this normal? Can magnetic fields make the arc move around as you pass through them? Was this just a coincidence?Thanks.
Reply:Originally Posted by ThaddeusHi,I am teaching myself how to TIG weld.I have a Thermal Arc 185 AC/DC. I was welding some 16 gauge mild steel 1" square tube.  90 amps, HF start. Pulse.I was holding 2 chunks together with 2 magnet clamps when I noticed something freaky: the arc started wavering back and forth, alternating from side to side.When I took the magnets off, it no longer did it.Is this normal? Can magnetic fields make the arc move around as you pass through them? r was this just a coincidence?Thanks.
Reply:Magnetic arc oscillators are sometimes used with automated welding equipment to weave the arc.I prefer the more precise mechanical arc oscillation.http://www.ap-automation.com/products/mac/index.html
Reply:That happened to last week.  The arc just went slant-ways .  At first I thought I was dreaming      I got a good laugh. weld it like you own it
Reply:Wait til you get something with heavy magnetism in it. Forget the mig and tig and just get out the 7018 or 7024. AC helps if you have it.The difference between art and craft is the quality of the workmanship. I am an artist.