Heating tungsten

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Hello to all. I am a glassblower that uses tungsten rods(3/32" and 1/8") to pierce holes through glass beads and ornaments. So far, we use the flame (propane oxy) to heat the tungsten to red hot and it readily pierces heat softened glass. The drawback is that the flame causes the tungsten to "fume" onto the glass. We are using pure tungsten rods. My friend suggested that a small welder could heat the tungsten to red hot without any flame application. Beyond stick and cutting torch, I have very little welding experience. What type of machine and what amperage would you all suggest to get a tungsten rod glowing red without disturbing the tungsten?Any help would be appreciated. I can post pics later if that would be helpful.Many thanks,William
Reply:Tungsten will form tungsten carbides when heated in a flame.  Those are volatile, as opposed to tungsten which is not very much.I think you are overheating your tungsten.