Newbie AL tig question?

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I have been practicing with 1/8" material, 3/32 Thoriated tungsten (Dynasty 200) and making progress but have a question?The tungsten seems to be fine (on the sharpened area (slightly rounded and when cooled remains shiny.  However as time progresses there is a build up of what appears to be contamination for about 1/2" down the tungsten.  It seems to make the arc somewhat less stable as the weld progresses.  Is this normal?  What causes this and what can I do about it?  (next time out to the shop to practice, when I get the situation I will try and get a good photo)TimA rich man is not the one who has the most but instead one who needs theleast. Retired IUEC local 19AK Bush pilot,  Chaplain  CMA Chapt 26victor torchesMiller110v migDynasty 200dx (new in Dec 08)Hypertherm PM-45MM-252 (new 2/09)
Reply:This photo is  a 'double dipped' tungsten, but I did finish the aluminum weld. Is this what you mean? Sorry about the pic, at least the background is 'almost' in focus. Caution, the following comment has nothing to do with the posted pic:In another thread you asked about something happening to your red tungsten. IIRC something about b*lls forming on the tip. This is the limitation of red tung, the longer you can weld with it, before dipping, the more likely this will happen. This is a good news, bad news situation. The good news is that you can weld long enough to get this problem.  The bad news is that you've probably outlived red.  I welded for a long time before I saw this problem, because everytime I reground, I restarted the timer on the problem. Again, this paragraph has NOTHING to do with this photo!!  Attached ImagesLast edited by Craig in Denver; 01-19-2009 at 10:22 PM.9-11-2001......We Will Never ForgetRetired desk jockey. Hobby weldor with a little training. Craftsman O/A---Flat, Vert, Ovhd, Horz. Miller Syncrowave 250
Reply:Craig,I have done just that but this looks more like a lollypop stick after my grandson has sucked all the candy off  it (LOL)  sorta like the area ahead of the rear of the photo and the goober on the end.  Another (larger analgy) would be kinda like the buildup on an anode in a hotwater heater.  (I am thinking it is just gradual dipping not dunking in the puddle or stabbing the filler into the tungsten)A certified Tigger yesterday told me not to worry about it as long as it wasn't causing the arc to get to unstable.[[[[[[dang there is a lot of variables]]]]]]]  most self inflicted.The one thing I noticed yesterday was I could lower the peak amps a little and hold a little closer arc distance.  I am battling a sinus cold and hope to get out to the shop some tomorrow to melt some more shiny filler.Thanks,TimA rich man is not the one who has the most but instead one who needs theleast. Retired IUEC local 19AK Bush pilot,  Chaplain  CMA Chapt 26victor torchesMiller110v migDynasty 200dx (new in Dec 08)Hypertherm PM-45MM-252 (new 2/09)
Reply:Originally Posted by UltrachopI have been practicing with 1/8" material, 3/32 Thoriated tungsten (Dynasty 200) and making progress but have a question?The tungsten seems to be fine (on the sharpened area (slightly rounded and when cooled remains shiny.  However as time progresses there is a build up of what appears to be contamination for about 1/2" down the tungsten.  It seems to make the arc somewhat less stable as the weld progresses.  Is this normal?  What causes this and what can I do about it?  (next time out to the shop to practice, when I get the situation I will try and get a good photo)Tim
Reply:Paul, that makes perfect sense!  I was wondering if that could be it.  Another question, when you weld "uphill with AL" does it help to put the ground higher then the base of the weld??As I was told in the beginning the learning curve is steep but from the comments I am getting from the Tig welders that have seen my pile of scrape coupons, I am starting to "get it".  Sure appreciate all the help from this board.Next project is to build a good welding table so I can set up the coupons easier.TimA rich man is not the one who has the most but instead one who needs theleast. Retired IUEC local 19AK Bush pilot,  Chaplain  CMA Chapt 26victor torchesMiller110v migDynasty 200dx (new in Dec 08)Hypertherm PM-45MM-252 (new 2/09)
Reply:Originally Posted by UltrachopCraig,I have done just that but this looks more like a lollypop stick after my grandson has sucked all the candy off  it (LOL)  sorta like the area ahead of the rear of the photo and the goober on the end.
Reply:Craig,Ok, I don't know how to describe the looks of my contaminated tungsten, but I think I got the answer between yourself and Rojodiablo.  TimA rich man is not the one who has the most but instead one who needs theleast. Retired IUEC local 19AK Bush pilot,  Chaplain  CMA Chapt 26victor torchesMiller110v migDynasty 200dx (new in Dec 08)Hypertherm PM-45MM-252 (new 2/09)
Reply:Originally Posted by UltrachopCraig,Ok, I don't know how to describe the looks of my contaminated tungsten, but I think I got the answer between yourself and Rojodiablo.  Tim
Reply:Originally Posted by Craig in DenverOk, if you're happy with that answer, so am I. If not, a picture always helps. Cool, a shoot-out between me 'n Rojo.  Paul: Duck, here I come.  My sister is Sno-birdin' in San Diego, so I'm not as far away as you think.
Reply:Originally Posted by RojodiabloA tungsten dunking contest???!!! I'll get my bench grinder rollin' to clean up the mess!!
Reply:Craig,  I feel honored just reading the comments by either yourself or Rojodiablo!  As for talking to your ex-wife, only if she spends time in the shop (LOL)  my wife thinks lately I like my new Dynasty more then her (after 31 years) not a chance!!Say I lost track of where you tried to explain to me how to post previous quotes (I MUST BE DENSE) I can't find what thread your post was entered?  (maybe I better hire a teenager to learn  me this computer!!TimA rich man is not the one who has the most but instead one who needs theleast. Retired IUEC local 19AK Bush pilot,  Chaplain  CMA Chapt 26victor torchesMiller110v migDynasty 200dx (new in Dec 08)Hypertherm PM-45MM-252 (new 2/09)
Reply:Ultrachop,Just wait til you've owned that Dynasty for 31 yrs.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:Sundowner,Hope The Dynasty is as faithful to me as my wife (LOL)  I got a really patient wife with all the crap I have put her through!TimA rich man is not the one who has the most but instead one who needs theleast. Retired IUEC local 19AK Bush pilot,  Chaplain  CMA Chapt 26victor torchesMiller110v migDynasty 200dx (new in Dec 08)Hypertherm PM-45MM-252 (new 2/09)
Reply:Originally Posted by UltrachopCraig,  I feel honored just reading the comments by either yourself or Rojodiablo!
Reply:Craig,Thanks again.  I haven't been able to practice welding for the last couple of days due to I have been fighting this head cold that has my head spinning! (that's my story and I am sticking to it)  Tomorrow I will practice "quoting" and preview the posts till I figure it out! (maybe I will just start a thread for myself to answer and see if I can write a reply that I understand (LOL)Everytime I see the photos of what you guys have been able to do with a tig machine it inspires me to spend more time with the torch!  (I really like the prospects of fabricating with Aluminum.  (I was fortunate to meet an individual that is a Welder/millwright in a plant that has him welding Aluminum all the time (he says he can get me some "practice pieces" of different allows both raw and anodized.Tim----Off to get some more kleenex!A rich man is not the one who has the most but instead one who needs theleast. Retired IUEC local 19AK Bush pilot,  Chaplain  CMA Chapt 26victor torchesMiller110v migDynasty 200dx (new in Dec 08)Hypertherm PM-45MM-252 (new 2/09)
Reply:Didn't drown here in the PNW, but for sure the first cold/sinus/crap as kicked my butt for the last week or so.  I got distracted from welding when the Wife agreed that both of us should go apply for our Concealed carry permits and get her a protection weapon!  (Music to my ears and just happened to have our largest Knife and Gun show in town!!  Sorry to be off topic, Promise to get back to practicing tomorrow (if it is anything like golf, I will do better after a little off time.Hope all is well with the metal blending crew!TimA rich man is not the one who has the most but instead one who needs theleast. Retired IUEC local 19AK Bush pilot,  Chaplain  CMA Chapt 26victor torchesMiller110v migDynasty 200dx (new in Dec 08)Hypertherm PM-45MM-252 (new 2/09)
Reply:Sorry to hear you're feeling under the weather Ultrachop.  Was in the same boat two weeks ago.Sounds as if our wives were cut from the same cloth - very forgiving and carry concealed.  Judy will have kept me around for 30 in September.MM200 w/Spoolmatic 1Syncrowave 180SDBobcat 225G Plus - LP/NGMUTT Suitcase WirefeederWC-1S/Spoolmatic 1HF-251D-1PakMaster 100XL '68 Red Face Code #6633 projectStar Jet 21-110Save Second Base!
Reply:DuaneB55,Thanks, lot better now, and glad as I am a really lousy patient!   Congratulations on the longevity in your marriage!!  It is sad to see so many youngsters giving up before they find out that real love isn't just a "feeling".   I plan on starting an off topic thread as to CC and the current situation in politics!I have lined up a few AL projects to put my practice to work!  (I am building a transmission shifter box for a friend that is building up an old 60's van and I hope to modify an Aluminum handtruck into a cart for my new Dynasty toy!I had a guy ask me to repair an Aluminum? trigger quard on a match pistol (I told him to give me a little more time)This process opens up endless opportunities for small one off projects and I am inspired daily by what I read and see on the various boards.TimA rich man is not the one who has the most but instead one who needs theleast. Retired IUEC local 19AK Bush pilot,  Chaplain  CMA Chapt 26victor torchesMiller110v migDynasty 200dx (new in Dec 08)Hypertherm PM-45MM-252 (new 2/09)
Reply:Originally Posted by UltrachopDidn't drown here in the PNW, but for sure the first cold/sinus/crap as kicked my butt for the last week or so.
Reply:Craig,I ran into the same thing that first night at the CC class I didn't take, I am glad you got the opportunity to update the class!  I hope to be practicing again tomorrow!  (between working on the MH power window) and chasing the Pretty woman around the house!I have a collection of SW revolvers, several shotguns, and on and on.  Living in AK most of my life (it was legal to carry on you hip a pistol and I always had my little favorite (Dell Horton-commisioned 686 SS 2-1/2" 357.  I purchased a set of Crimson Trace Laser Grips and a new carry holster.  I am waiting for my LGS to get a Ruger .380LCP for the wife to carry.It is a toss up whether I get a new MM-252 or a Kimber 1911??? (I have never owned a Semi-auto) so it will be an even tougher decision!====and now there will not be a trigger lock on any of my guns!  My grandkids will learn gun safety by age 4 and hope to have them shooting about the same time! Priorities!!TimA rich man is not the one who has the most but instead one who needs theleast. Retired IUEC local 19AK Bush pilot,  Chaplain  CMA Chapt 26victor torchesMiller110v migDynasty 200dx (new in Dec 08)Hypertherm PM-45MM-252 (new 2/09)