tig questions

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How does the size of the tungsten tip affect the size of you bead. It seems that the small size gives  a very intense heat, and you can get almost as wide as a puddle with it as a 1/8 tip. Then theres the cup size, and then the filler rod size. I am currently working on aluminum. I am taking a class, the teacher is great, but this is the second semester and he needs to work with the new students to get them started on stick. The cup size and penetration and filler, is this something that there are charts for or is it more like learn as you go? thanks for any help on this.
Reply:The only way to figure out what works and what dont is to play play play..I've been at it so long that when i'm lazy..I really dont care about cup size..Stuff up to 1/8" you can get away with a 1/16" tungestion..Anything over that I use 3/32"..Experimentation is the key here.....zap!I am not completely insane..Some parts are missing Professional Driver on a closed course....Do not attempt.Just because I'm a  dumbass don't mean that you can be too.So DON'T try any of this **** l do at home.
Reply:I think the message too is that it isn't terribly critical.... if it works, it's ok.- John
Reply:Tungsten size is determined by the current you run at, which has an effect on bead size. The tungsten size has not much to do with the weld size otherwise. current, end prep of the tungsten, straight vs reverse polait or AC, frecuency on AC, weld speed, how much filler you add, manipulation of the torch, material prep, etc, all control the final weld size. The size of the filler you use doesn't have much effect, either, other than if the filler is too small or too large for the puddle you are carrying, it is a lot more difficult to do the weld.
Reply:So do you guys do a test weld on something to see what works best? If you haven't done a certain type of weld before? thank.s
Reply:Originally Posted by enlpckTungsten size is determined by the current you run at, which has an effect on bead size. The tungsten size has not much to do with the weld size otherwise. current, end prep of the tungsten, straight vs reverse polait or AC, frecuency on AC, weld speed, how much filler you add, manipulation of the torch, material prep, etc, all control the final weld size. The size of the filler you use doesn't have much effect, either, other than if the filler is too small or too large for the puddle you are carrying, it is a lot more difficult to do the weld.