Omnipro 220 TIG problem

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Hello, Our shop recently purchased an Omnipro 220 welder. We use it mostly for repairs and in house fabricating, we are a machine shop. Everything seems to work fine except for the TIG function. When you start the arc it will seem to pulse erratically. If you keep the amperage very low it will maintain a steady arc but it's not hot enough to do anything with, as soon as you try to increase the amperage it starts pulsating again. I contacted Harbor Freight and although they were helpful the problem was not resolved. They suggested we exchange it for a new one, which we did, but the problem is still there. I am not a professional welder but I have done my share of welding, including TIG. We are using %100 Argon, has been used on our old Miller welder. Here is what we have tried so far:-with and without foot pedal-reversing polarity-tried 16ga steel and stainless-swapped out HF consumables with Miller-tried running on 120v and 240vAnybody else have this problem?
Reply:When you exchanged the machine did you also use the new torch that came with it?
Reply:Is the polarity correct with your leads? bad ground? proper sized collets to tungsten?
Reply:No, we didn't. If we can't figure it out, that may be our next option.
Reply:I have tried swapping the polarity and it didn't work at all. I have grounded directly to the material being welded and tried several sizes of tungsten with proper collets.
Reply:

Originally Posted by pwspringer

No, we didn't. If we can't figure it out, that may be our next option.
Reply:

Originally Posted by rustybronco

What is this in reference to? My question?
Reply:yep. Swap out the torch lead. These are great machines, but it could be something as simple as a defective torch. be sure to follow all the screen prompts.
Reply:I found out the problem wasn't with our new welder, it was caused by a faulty auto-darkening welding helmet. Worked fine in MIG mode but something about TIG mode causes it to pulsate. Used my old fixed lens helmet and no problem. I am a little embarrassed I didn't realize what was happening but maybe it will be some help to someone.
Reply:i have heard or auto helmets falsing out but never a machine. I never use an auto helmet on TIG.www.tjsperformance.comDynasty 300 DXHTP 240HTP Microcut 380Hyperthem 85JD2 Hyd Bender and HF Hyd Ring Roller all in one =(Frankenbender)Bpt. Mill/DRO4' x 8' CNC Plasma TableInstagram: tjsperformanceYT: TJS Welding and Fabrication
Reply:Glad you got it worked out. The Vulcan OmniPro 220 is a awesome machine. I've never heard anything bad about them.  Like I said, I'm saving for a wire feed welder. Hoping to afford a Miller, or Lincoln, but seeing how well these Vulcan OmniPro' 220's run, and how well built they are, I might pull the trigger on one when I have my money saved up.
Reply:

Originally Posted by TJS

i have heard or auto helmets falsing out but never a machine. I never use an auto helmet on TIG.
Reply:

Originally Posted by pwspringer

I'm just curious, why do you not use an auto helmet on TIG?
Reply:i'm using a vulcan ad helmet down to 10A with HF protig and no issues with flashing whatsoever.
Reply:

Originally Posted by filetobeef

i'm using a vulcan ad helmet down to 10A with HF protig and no issues with flashing whatsoever.