I'm sticking...

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I've been practicing with my AC/DC Lincoln welder.  I've got the setting set at DCEP and running various amps between 85-105DC+.  Using 7018 and occasionally 6013 1/8'' electrodes.  Today for whatever reason the electrode would stick a lot more than any other time before.... when I'm sticking, is this an indication that my current setting is too low or too high?!Rookie James
Reply:Probably too low. I can't comment on the 6013 because I don't use it, but I like around 125 amps for 1/8 7018.
Reply:Possibly. It may also be an indication that your technique isn't right. If the amp setting is within the suggested range listed on the package, you shouldn't have major sticking issues if your technique is correct.  Chances are higher that the rod will stick at the lower end of that scale than the upper end usually.My guess is if everything else stayed the same from the last time, and you had no problems, it's your technique thats the issue.Edit: One thing I just thought of that often gives the guys learning at the tech school fits. If you are running multiple beads on the same plate and not waiting till the plate cools, this will act just like you turned up the amps on the machine. Guys will run several nice beads, then change to a new plate to run their evaluation plate for the instructor, and it will look like cr@p or have sticking issues. Thats because the practice plate was almost glowing hot and the new plate is cold. Always try to practice on cold or warm material. I tell the guys if they can pick it up with their bare hands it's cool enough. If the gloves are smoking when you hold it they need top set it aside, or go dunk it in the tank to cool.Last edited by DSW; 08-14-2011 at 07:20 AM..No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:I agree with DSW. I sometimes find that different brand electrodes tend to stick more. I hope you figure it out.-Marc
Reply:Just from my limited experience...When that happens to me I've found that possibly the work clamp/connection to the base metal may need some attention. Now I generally always hit the work clamp with a wire brush or a file when I'm having starting issues. Especially on equipment that I haven't welded with before. It generally seems to help.Also, may be just me but I usually run E7018 1/8" hotter than 105A. My Miller buzzbox would have some starting issues (actually the issues were mine) and so I'd usually just bump it up 10A or so. Not sure if the Lincoln tombstone (I'm assuming that's what you're running) has the same problem with current selector accuracy that the Miller's are known to have. Post some pics of your beads and the more exp. welders here can tell you if you're running too cold or not. Could be of some help if you don't mind the constructive criticism.Good luck.Eric