UNIMIG U11009K Razor Multi 250 Welder User Manual
- June 12, 2024
- UNiMiG
Table of Contents
- Safety
- Machine Features
- Package Contents
- Machine Specifications
- Machine Layout
- Control Panel Layout
- Control Panel Details
- Advanced Settings Menu
- MIG Manual Mode
- Synergic Mode
- MIG: Machine Setup
- MIG Welding Further Explained
- TIG: Machine Setup
- TIG Welding Guide
- MMA: Machine Setup
- MMA: Welding Guide
- MIG Troubleshooting
- TIG Troubleshooting
- MMA (STICK) Troubleshooting
- Factory Reset
- Indicator Lights
- Error Codes
- Wiring Diagrams
- Machine Breakdown and Parts List
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
RAZOR
MULTI250 3IN ONE SYNERGIC
U11009K | Operating Manual
Safety
Welding and cutting equipment can be dangerous to both the operator and people
in or near the surrounding working area if the equipment is not correctly
operated. Equipment must only be used under the strict and comprehensive
observance of all relevant safety regulations.
Read and understand this instruction manual carefully before the
installation and operation of this equipment.
Machine operating safety
- Do not switch the function modes while the machine is operating. Switching of the function modes during welding can damage the machine. Damage caused in this manner will not be covered under warranty.
- Disconnect the electrode-holder cable from the machine before switching on the machine, to avoid arcing should the electrode be in contact with the workpiece.
- Operators should be trained and or qualified.
Electric shock: it can kill
- Touching live electrical parts can cause fatal shocks or severe burns. The electrode and work circuit is electrically live whenever the output is on. The input power circuit and internal machine circuits are also live when power is on. In MIG/ MAG welding, the wire, drive rollers, wire feed housing, and all metal parts touching the welding wire are electrically live. Incorrectly installed or improperly grounded equipment is dangerous.
- Connect the primary input cable, according to Australian and New Zealand standards and regulations.
- Avoid all contact with live electrical parts of the welding/cutting circuit, electrodes and wires with bare hands.
- The operator must wear dry welding gloves while he/she performs the welding/cutting task.
- The operator should keep the workpiece insulated from himself/herself.
- Keep cords dry, free of oil and grease, and protected from hot metal and sparks.
- Frequently inspect input power cable for wear and tear, replace the cable immediately if damaged, bare wiring is dangerous and can kill.
- Do not use damaged, undersized, or badly joined cables.
- Do not drape cables over your body.
- We recommend (RCD) safety switch is used with this equipment to detect any leakage of current to earth.
Fumes and gases are dangerous
-
Smoke and gas generated while welding or cutting can be harmful to people’s health. Welding produces fumes and gases.
Breathing these fumes and gases can be hazardous to your health. -
Do not breathe the smoke and gas generated while welding or cutting, keep your head out of the fumes.
-
Keep the working area well ventilated, use fume extraction or ventilation to remove welding/cutting fumes and gases.
-
In confined or heavy fume environments always wear an approved air-supplied respirator.
-
Welding/cutting fumes and gases can displace air and lower the oxygen level, causing injury or death. Be sure the breathing air is safe.
-
Do not weld/cut in locations near degreasing, cleaning, or spraying operations. The heat and rays of the arc can react with vapours to form highly toxic and irritating gases.
-
Materials such as galvanised, lead, or cadmium plated steel, containing elements that can give off toxic fumes when welded/ cut. Do not weld/cut these materials unless the area is very well ventilated, and or wearing an air-supplied respirator.
Arc rays: harmful to people’s eyes and skin
- Arc rays from the welding/cutting process produce intense visible and invisible ultraviolet and infrared rays that can burn eyes and skin.
- Always wear a welding helmet with the correct shade of filter lens and suitable protective clothing, including welding gloves while the welding/cutting operation is performed.
- Measures should be taken to protect people in or near the surrounding working area. Use protective screens or barriers to protect others from flash, glare and sparks; warn others not to watch the arc.
Fire hazard
- Welding/cutting on closed containers, such as tanks, drums, or pipes, can cause them to explode. Flying sparks from the welding/cutting arc, hot workpiece, and hot equipment can cause fires and burns. Accidental contact of the electrode to metal objects can cause sparks, explosion, overheating, or fire. Check and be sure the area is safe before doing any welding/cutting.
- The welding/cutting sparks & spatter may cause fire, therefore remove any flammable materials well away from the working area. Cover flammable materials and containers with approved covers if unable to be moved from the welding/cutting area.
- Do not weld/cut on closed containers such as tanks, drums, or pipes, unless they are correctly prepared according to the required Safety Standards to ensure that flammable or toxic vapours and substances are totally removed, these can cause an explosion even though the vessel has been “cleaned”. Vent hollow castings or containers before heating, cutting or welding. They may explode.
- Do not weld/cut where the atmosphere may contain flammable dust, gas, or liquid vapours (such as petrol)
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it. Be alert that welding/cutting sparks and hot materials from welding/ cutting can easily go through small cracks and openings to adjacent areas. Be aware that welding/cutting on a ceiling, floor, bulkhead, or partition can cause a fire on the hidden side.
Gas cylinders
- Shielding gas cylinders contain gas under high pressure. If damaged, a cylinder can explode. Because gas cylinders usually are part of the welding/cutting process, be sure to treat them carefully. CYLINDERS can explode if damaged.
- Protect gas cylinders from excessive heat, mechanical shocks, physical damage, slag, open flames, sparks, and arcs.
- Ensure cylinders are held secure and upright to prevent tipping or falling over.
- Never allow the welding/cutting electrode or earth clamp to touch the gas cylinder, do not drape welding cables over the cylinder.
- Never weld/cut on a pressurised gas cylinder, it will explode and kill you.
- Open the cylinder valve slowly and turn your face away from the cylinder outlet valve and gas regulator.
Gas build-up
- The build-up of gas can cause a toxic environment, deplete the oxygen content in the air resulting in death or injury. Many gases use in welding/cutting are invisible and odourless.
- Shut off shielding gas supply when not in use.
- Always ventilate confined spaces or use approved air-supplied respirator.
Electronic magnetic fields
- MAGNETIC FIELDS can affect Implanted Medical Devices.
- Wearers of Pacemakers and other Implanted Medical Devices should keep away.
- Implanted Medical Device wearers should consult their doctor and the device manufacturer before going near any electric welding, cutting or heating operation.
Noise can damage hearing
- Noise from some processes or equipment can damage hearing.
- Wear approved ear protection if noise level is high.
Hot parts
- Items being welded/cut generate and hold high heat and can cause severe burns.
- Do not touch hot parts with bare hands. Allow a cooling period before working on the welding/cutting gun. Use insulated welding gloves and clothing to handle hot parts and prevent burns.
Caution
Working environment
- The environment in which this welding/cutting equipment is installed must be free of grinding dust, corrosive chemicals, flammable gas or materials etc., and at no more than a maximum of 80% humidity.
- When using the machine outdoors, protect the machine from direct sunlight, rainwater and snow, etc.; the temperature of the working environment should be maintained within -10°C to +40°C.
- Keep this equipment 30cm distant from the wall.
- Ensure the working environment is well ventilated.
Safety tips
- Ventilation: This equipment is small-sized, compact in structure, and of excellent performance in amperage output. The fan is used to dissipate heat generated by this equipment during the welding/cutting operation. Important: Maintain good ventilation of the louvres of this equipment. The minimum distance between this equipment and any other objects in or near the working area should be 30 cm. Good ventilation is of critical importance for the normal performance and service life of this equipment.
- Thermal Overload Protection: Should the machine be used to an excessive level, or in a high-temperature environment, poorly ventilated area or if the fan malfunctions the Thermal Overload Switch will be activated, and the machine will cease to operate. Under this circumstance, leave the machine switched on to keep the built-in fan working to bring down the temperature inside the equipment. The machine will be ready for use again when the internal temperature reaches a safe level.
- Over-Voltage Supply: Regarding the power supply voltage range of the machine, please refer to the “Main parameter” table. This equipment is of automatic voltage compensation, which enables the maintaining of the voltage range within the given range. In case that the voltage of input power supply amperage exceeds the stipulated value, it is possible to cause damage to the components of this equipment. Please ensure your primary power supply is correct.
- Do not come into contact with the output terminals while the machine is in operation. An electric shock may occur.
Maintenance
Exposure to extremely dusty, damp, or corrosive air is damaging to the
welding/cutting machine. To prevent any possible failure or fault of this
welding/cutting equipment, clean the dust at regular intervals with clean and
dry compressed air of required pressure.
Please note that: lack of maintenance can result in the cancellation of the
guarantee; the guarantee of this welding/ cutting equipment will be void if
the machine has been modified, attempt to take apart the machine or open the
factorymade sealing of the machine without the consent of an authorized
representative of the manufacturer.
Troubleshooting
Caution: Only qualified technicians are authorized to undertake the
repair of this welding/cutting equipment. For your safety and to avoid
Electrical Shock, please observe all safety notes and precautions detailed in
this manual.
Attention! – Check For Gas Leakage
At initial set up and at regular intervals we recommend to check for gas
leakage
Recommended procedure is as follows:
- Connect the regulator and gas hose assembly and tighten all connectors and clamps.
- Slowly open the cylinder valve.
- Set the flow rate on the regulator to approximately 8-10 L/min.
- Close the cylinder valve and pay attention to the needle indicator of the contents pressure gauge on the regulator, if the needle drops away towards zero there is a gas leak. Sometimes a gas leak can be slow and to identify it will require leaving the gas pressure in the regulator and line for an extended time period. In this situation it is recommended to open the cylinder valve, set the flow rate to 8-10 L/min, close the cylinder valve and check after a minimum of 15 minutes.
- If there is a gas loss then check all connectors and clamps for leakage by brushing or spraying with soapy water, bubbles will appear at the leakage point.
- Tighten clamps or fittings to eliminate gas leakage.
IMPORTANT! – We strongly recommend that you check for gas leakage prior to operation of your machine. We recommend that you close the cylinder valve when the machine is not in use.
Welding Guns Of Australia PTY LTD, authorised representatives or agents of Welding Guns Of Australia PTY LTD will not be liable or responsible for the loss of any gas.
Machine Features
HD Backlit Interface
Experience a new level of convenience with our nextgeneration interface panel.
With its vibrant and easy-to-read display, you’ll be able to effortlessly
navigate and customise your welding settings in any lighting condition.
Synergic MIG Control
Say goodbye to complicated and time-consuming setup with our innovative
Synergic MIG control. This cutting-edge technology automatically adjusts your
welding settings based on your wire type, gas, wire size, and material
thickness, ensuring precise and efficient results every time.
Digital Control MIG Torch
The ultimate solution for welders seeking unprecedented control and precision
in their work. No more hassle of constantly adjusting your settings on a
separate control panel. With our leading technology, you can easily fine-tune
your amps, wire speed, and voltage right on the MIG torch itself.
Spool Gun Ready
Attach a Spool Gun to run softer core wires such as aluminium MIG wire. You
don’t even need to change the setup of your existing torch or drive rollers.
Gas & Gasless MIG
Our welding machine supports both gas-shielded and gasless MIG wire, allowing
you to tackle a wide variety of welding projects with ease. Whether you’re
working with mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium, or flux-cored wire, our
machine has got you covered.
4 Geared Wire Drive
Experience smooth and consistent wire feeding with our advanced 4 geared
roller drive unit. This feature ensures that your wire is fed consistently and
accurately, even when using longer MIG torches.
Multi-Process Welding
Get the job done quickly and efficiently with our versatile three-in-one
welding machine. With the ability to perform MIG, TIG, and STICK welding all
in one unit, you can save valuable time and effort without sacrificing
quality.
Foot Control Ready
Enjoy greater control and precision with our optional foot control accessory.
This handy feature allows you to easily adjust your TIG amperage on the fly,
without interrupting your torch movement.
Trigger Controlled DC Lift Arc TIG
With Trigger Controlled DC Lift Arc ignition, starting your welding projects
has never been easier. Our Lift Arc TIG technology ensures that your tungsten
tip won’t stick to the workpiece, preventing costly tip breakages.
Smart Fan
Our advanced Smart Fan technology reduces noise, saves power, and minimises
contaminants, making it the perfect choice for any welding environment.
Advanced MMA Features
The RAZOR MULTI 250 features adjustable Arc Force and Hot Start functionality.
These features are designed for improving weld quality and ease of use.
Optional Remote Control
Upgrade your machine with a handy remote control. Both a wired and wireless
controller are available.
Package Contents
Machine Specifications
Technical Data
Parameter | Values |
---|---|
SKU | U11009K |
Primary Input Voltage | 240V Single Phase |
Supply Plug | 15 AMP |
Ieff (A) | 15 |
Rated Output | 30A/15.5V – 250A/26.5V |
No Load Voltage (V) | 65 |
Protection Class | IP23S |
Insulation Class | H |
Minimum Generator (kVA) | 11 |
Dinse Connector | 35/50 |
Standard | AS/NZ60974-1 |
Warranty (Years) | 5 |
MIG Specifications
MIG Welding Current Range | 30-250A |
---|---|
MIG Duty Cycle @ 40°C | 20% @ 250A |
60% @ 144A
100% @ 112A
MIG Welding Thickness Range| 1-12mm
TIG Specifications
TIG Function Type | DC Lift Arc |
---|---|
TIG Welding Current Range | 5-250A |
TIG Duty Cycle @ 40°C | 20% @ 250A |
60% @ 144A
100% @ 112A
TIG Welding Thickness Range| 1-10mm
STICK Specifications
STICK Welding Current Range | 20-220A |
---|---|
STICK Duty Cycle @ 40°C | 20% @ 220A |
60% @ 127A
100% @ 98A
STICK Welding Thickness Range| 2-12mm
Size & Weight
Dimensions (mm) | 700x280x511 |
---|---|
Weight (kg) | 25.5 |
Capable Welding Material Types By Welding Process
MIG: Mild Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminium, Silicon Bronze
TIG: Mild Steel, Stainless Steel, Copper, Silicon Bronze
MMA: Mild Steel, Stainless Steel, Cast Iron
Machine Layout
5.1 Front Panel Layout
-
Interface Panel
-
“+” Output Terminal
-
“-” Output Terminal
-
Euro Connect Torch Port
-
Wired Remote Connection Port
-
Polarity Cable
-
Wireless Remote Indicator
5.2 Rear Panel Layout -
On/Off Switch
-
Gas Input
-
Input Power Cord
-
Front Lift Handle
-
Rear Lift Handle
5.3 Interior Layout
- 4 Geared Wire Drive System
- Wire Spool Holder
- Drive Roller Storage
- Door Latches
- Cabinet Light
- Settings Guide
5.4 Geared Wire Drive System
- Drive Roller Assemblies
- Upper Roller Assembly
- Tensioner Knob
- Guide Tube
- Wire Inlet Guide Tube
Control Panel Layout
- Numerical Display A (Amperage, M/Min, Material Thickness)
- Adjustment Knob A
- Numerical Display B (Volts, Inductance, Arc Force, Burnback)
- Adjustment Knob B
- Weld Mode Selection Button
- Material/Gas Selection Buttons
- Wire Diameter Size Selection Button
- Torch Mode Selection Button
- MIG Mode Button
- Remote Mode Button
- Synergic Mode Button
- Wire Feed Button
- Gas Test Button
- Warning Indicators (Overcurrent & Thermal Overload)
- VRD Indicator Light
Control Panel Details
WELDING MODE SELECTION
MIG
MIG Mode
This indicates that the machine is in MIG mode.
The machine’s default is MIG manual mode. For Synergic mode press the Synergic
Mode Button located on the front panel.
TIG
TIG Mode
This indicates that the machine is in Lift Arc TIG mode (DC only).
MMA
MMA ‘Stick’ Mode
This indicates that the machine is in Manual Metal Arc mode.
MATERIAL/GAS SELECTION
STEEL Ar93% CO25% 022%
STEEL Ar80% CO220%
SELF-SHIELDED FLUX-CORED
STAINLESS STEEL Ar98% CO22%
ALUMINIUM Ar100%
For MIG Synergic Mode, these options indicate which programming the machine
has available. Simply press the Material/Gas Selection Buttons to choose the
material type and gas type you are using.
WIRE DIAMETER SIZE SELECTION
Press the Wire Diameter Size Selection Button to cycle through the wire
diameter sizes available for synergic programming. Note: Not all sizes are
available for all material/gas types.
TORCH MODE
2T
2T Torch Mode
While in 2T mode, press and hold the torch trigger button to initiate the
weld, and continue holding the trigger down during the duration of the desired
weld.
4T
4T Torch Mode
While in 4T mode, press and release the torch trigger button to initiate the
weld. To end the weld cycle, press and release the torch button again.
MIG MODE
STANDARD
MIG
Standard MIG Mode
Select this mode while using a regular MIG torch.
SPOOL
GUN
Spool Gun Mode
Select this mode while using a Spool Gun.
ADDITIONAL BUTTONS
Remote Mode
Press this button to activate Remote Mode. Use this mode to pair with a wired
or wireless remote, or a torch with parameter controls.
Synergic Mode
Press this button to activate Synergic Mode. This will give you single knob
quick settings based on desired amperage, plate thickness, or wire speed. You
can also fine-tune the recommended settings.
Wire Feed
Press this button to activate the drive rollers. This allows for easy and safe
wire feeding when changing out rolls of wire.
Gas Test
Press this button to activate the gas solenoid. This allows you to ensure the
gas system is functioning correctly without wasting wire.
Advanced Settings Menu
PRESS AND HOLD THE ADJUSTMENT KNOB A FOR 5 SECONDS TO ENTER THE ADVANCED
SETTINGS MENU
While in this menu you can scroll through the available settings with the
adjustment knob. Each of the different settings is indicated by a code.
NOTE: SETTINGS MENU IS DEPENDENT ON WHICH WELDING MODE YOU ARE IN.
(CHANGE WELDING MODE TO PARAMETERS YOU WISH TO EDIT)
F01Standby Timer 0 / 5 / 10| / 15 (minutes) 0 Indicates standby mode Is off.|
|
---|---|---|---
F02Input| Over-Voltage Protection 0 OFF 1 ON| |
F3| Pre-Flow Air Timer (MIG)| 0 – 2 Pre-Flow Air Timer (TIG)| 0 – 5| (seconds)
F4| Post-Flow Air Timer (MIG)| 0 – 5 Post-Flow Air Timer (TIG)| 0 -10|
(seconds)
| F05Downslope
Time (TIG)| 0 – 5 (seconds)| |
| F06Burnback
Voltage| 10-20 (volts)| |
F7| Hot Start Current (MMA)| 0-60 (Amps)| |
F08Slow| Wire Feed Speed| 0 (Disabled) 1 (1/3 speed) 2 (1/2 speed)| 3 (2/3
speed)
F09Remote| Mode Type| 0 (wireless) 1 (Wired)| |
MIG Manual Mode
By default, the machine will be in Manual Mode when you are have selected MIG using the WELD MODE BUTTON. In Manual MIG Mode the machine can be primarily adjusted using the A and B Adjustment Knobs.
Adjustment Knob A will adjust your wire speed.
(Adjusted in meters per minute)
Adjustment Knob B will adjust your voltage. Press the knob to
cycle through your Inductance and Burnback Settings.
Inductance: (-10 through 10)
Burnback: (0-800 milliseconds)
Synergic Mode
To activate Synergic mode, press the Synergic Mode Button while in MIG.
You will see the Synergic Mode indicator light to the right of the button
light up while Synergic Mode is active.
Using the Material/Gas Selection Buttons choose the metal you are welding and
gas type you have installed. Then choose the wire diameter using the Wire Size
Button.
Adjustment Knob A will adjust your amperage by default. Press
the knob to cycle through amperage, wire speed, and material thickness
adjustment modes based on your preference.
Adjustment Knob B is for fine-tuning your synergic setup. You
can adjust voltage by default, as well as Inductance and Burnback by pressing
the knob in.
Note: Available adjustment voltage with Knob B is based on your settings with Knob A.
MIG: Machine Setup
-
Begin by first choosing your desired MIG wire based on what you’re welding. Then ensure that you have paired the selected wire to the correct torch tip, torch liner, and drive roller.
-
To change the drive rollers, start by loosening the tensioner knob by twisting it anti-clockwise. Then pull it towards you so that the knob clears the upper roller assembly.
-
Lift the upper drive roller assembly up and out of the way. Then, loosen and remove the drive roller retaining nuts by spinning them anti-clockwise. Do this for both assemblies.
-
You now have access to the drive rollers. When reinstalling your desired drive rollers, ensure you line up the key slot on each assembly.
-
Based on what type of wire you wish to run, you need to set the machine up in either DC Electrode (+) or DC Electrode (-). Most MIG welding is done with DCEP (+), so plug the polarity cable into the (+) dinse port. Connect the earth clamp into the (-) dinse port.
-
For DCEN (-), plug the polarity cable into the (-) dinse port, and the earth clamp into the (+) dinse port. DCEN is used primarily for gasless flux-cored welding.
-
With the polarity cable and the earth clamp installed into the correct dinse ports, now install the MIG torch into the Euro Connect Port. Ensure you line up the internal ports correctly.
-
With the torch correctly lined up and pressed inwards, twist the locking nut to finish the torch installation.
WARNING!
Maintain positive control of the loose end of the wire or leave it tensioned into the catch hole on the side of the spool at all times. If the wire becomes too unravelled, the spool of wire can become unusable. -
After ensuring the required setup has been completed for the wire you wish to run it is now time to install the wire. You can begin to install the spool by loosening and removing the spool holder retainer nut (clockwise to loosen).
-
With the spool holder retainer nut removed, slide the spool onto the spool holder. Ensure you line up the key hole on the spool with the key on the base of the spool holder.
-
You can now lock the spool of wire in place by reinstalling the spool holder retainer nut (anti-clockwise to tighten).
-
With the wire spool installed, begin feeding the wire into the inlet wire guide. Maintain positive control of the wire at all times as it is coiled under tension. Ensure the upper roller assembly is in the upright position.
-
Slide the wire across the top of the drive rollers and feed it into and just past the guide tube. You can now lock the upper drive roller assembly down.
-
With the tensioner knob locked in place, twist the tensioner knob to give the wire a medium amount of tension. This may need to be adjusted later.
-
Connect the plug into a power point, then switch the machine ON.
-
Prepare the torch for having wire fed through by removing the gas nozzle and unscrewing the wire tip.
-
You can now feed the wire through the torch. Press the Wire Feed Button located on the front panel of the machine. Please maintain positive control of the torch and point it away from you, ensuring any part of your persons is not near the tip.
-
Feed extra wire out of the tip of the torch. Then slide the MIG tip along the wire back into place, screwing it in to secure it. Then slide the gas nozzle back into place. Cut the excess wire off just past the gas nozzle.
-
Check the tension by pinching the sides of the wire past the tip of the torch while wearing a glove. Feed the wire while applying light pressure with your fingers. You want the tension to be set just past slippage, so adjust the tension knob accordingly. Too little pressure and you will experience slippage. Too much pressure and you might experience wire birdnesting or feeding issues. Too much pressure can also deform the wire.
WARNING!
WEAR GLOVES AND DO NOT ATTEMPT TO PINCH THE TIP OF THE WIRE.
KEEP HANDS CLEAR OF DRIVE ROLLERS WHEN IN MOTION.
FOR FLUX-CORED GASLESS WIRE SKIP TO STEP 25 -
Screw in the supplied twin gauge argon regulator into your chosen gas bottle.
-
Tighten securely with wrench.
-
Screw in the supplied gas hose to the outlet port of the regulator.
-
Plug the quick connect end of the gas hose to the port on the back of the machine.
-
Turn gas bottle on, and adjust gas flow to 8-12L/min.
-
Connect earth clamp to your workpiece.
-
Run through your preferred setup using the front panel of the machine, after first ensuring that you have MIG mode selected using the WELD MODE button.
-
Line up the torch with your workpiece, then pull the trigger to initiate the weld. For gas-shielded MIG, the push method is recommended for optimum weld quality. Release trigger to end the weld.
MIG Welding Further Explained
MIG (Metal Inert Gas) Welding
MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding, also known as GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding) or
MAG (Metal Active Gas Welding), is a semi-automatic arc welding process in
which a consumable wire electrode and a shielding gas are fed through a
welding gun. A constant voltage, direct current power source is most commonly
used with MIG welding.
There are four primary methods of metal transfer in MIG welding. Short circuit
(also known as dip transfer), globular transfer, spray transfer and pulse
spray, each of which has distinct properties and corresponding advantages and
limitations. To perform MIG welding, the necessary equipment is a welding gun,
a wire feed unit, a welding power supply, an electrode wire, and a shielding
gas supply.
Short Circuit Transfer
Short circuit transfer is the most commonly used method, whereby the wire
electrode is fed continuously down the welding torch through to and exiting
the contact tip. The wire touches the workpiece and causes a short circuit.
The wire heats up and begins to form a molten bead, the bead separates from
the end of the wire and forms a droplet that is transferred into the weld
pool. This process is repeated about 100 times per second, making the arc
appear constant to the human eye.
The wire approaches the workpiece and touches the work, creating a short
circuit between the wire and the base metal, because there is no space between
the wire and the base metal there is no arc and current flows through the
wire.
The wire cannot support all the current flow, resistance builds up and the wire becomes hot and weak and begins to melt.
The current flow creates a magnetic field that begins to pinch the melting wire forming it into droplet.
The pinch causes the forming droplet to separate and fall towards the forming weld pool.
An arc is created at the separation of the droplet and the heat and force of the arc flattens out the droplet into the weld pool. The heat of the arc melts the end of the wire slightly as it feeds towards the base metal.
The wire feed speed overcomes the heat of the arc and the wire again approaches the work to short circuit and repeat the cycle.
Basic MIG Welding
Good weld quality and weld profile depend on gun angle, the direction of
travel, electrode extension (stick out), travel speed, the thickness of base
metal, wire feed speed (amperage) and arc voltage. To follow are some basic
guides to assist with your setup.
Gun Position – Travel Direction & Work Angle
Gun position or technique usually refers to how the wire is directed at the
base metal, the angle and travel direction chosen. Travel speed and work angle
will determine the characteristic of the weld bead profile and degree of weld
penetration.
Push Technique
The wire is located at the leading edge of the weld pool and pushed towards
the un-melted work surface. This technique offers a better view of the weld
joint and direction of the wire into the weld joint. Push technique directs
the heat away from the weld puddle, allowing faster travel speeds providing a
flatter weld profile with light penetration – useful for welding thin
materials. The welds are wider and flatter, allowing for minimal clean
up/grinding time.
Perpendicular Technique
The wire is fed directly into the weld. This technique is used primarily for
automated situations or when conditions make it necessary. The weld profile is
generally higher, and deeper penetration is achieved.
Pull/Drag Technique
The gun and wire are dragged away from the weld bead. The arc and heat are
concentrated on the weld pool. The base metal receives more heat, deeper
melting, more penetration and the weld profile is higher with more build-up.
Travel Angle
The travel angle is the right to left, relative to the direction of welding. A
travel angle of 5°- 15° is ideal and produces the right level of control over
the weld pool. A travel angle higher than 20° will give an unstable arc
condition with poor weld metal transfer, less penetration, high levels of
spatter, weak gas shielding and a poor quality finished weld.
Work Angle
The work angle is the up and down angle of the gun relative to the workpiece.
The correct work angle provides good bead shape, prevents undercut, uneven
penetration, weak gas shielding and a poor quality finished weld.
Stick Out
Stick out is the length of the unmelted wire protruding from the end of the
contact tip.
A constant, even stick out of 5-10mm will produce a stable arc and an even
current flow providing good penetration and even fusion. Too short a stick out
will cause an unstable weld pool, produce spatter and overheat the contact
tip. Too long of a stick out will cause an unstable arc, lack of penetration,
lack of fusion, and increase spatter.
Travel Speed
Travel speed is the rate that the gun is moved along the weld joint and is
usually measured in mm per minute. Travel speeds can vary depending on
conditions and the welder’s skill and is limited to the welder’s ability to
control the weld pool. The push technique allows faster travel speeds than the
drag technique.
The gas flow must also correspond with the travel speed, increasing with
faster travel speed and decreasing at a slower speed. Travel speed needs to
match the amperage and will decrease as the material thickness and amperage
increase.
Travel Speed Too Fast
Too fast a travel speed produces too little heat per mm of travel resulting in
less penetration and reduced weld fusion. The weld bead solidifies very
quickly, trapping gases inside the weld metal and causing porosity.
Undercutting of the base metal can also occur, and an unfilled groove in the
base metal is created when the travel speed is too fast to allow molten metal
to flow into the weld crater created by the arc heat.
Travel Speed Too Slow
Too slow a travel speed produces a large weld with a lack of penetration and
fusion. The energy from the arc dwells on top of the weld pool rather than
penetrating the base metal. This produces a wider weld bead with more
deposited weld metal per mm than is required, resulting in a weld deposit of
poor quality.
Correct Travel Speed
The correct travel speed keeps the arc at the leading edge of the weld pool,
allowing the base metal to melt sufficiently to create good penetration,
fusion and wetting out of the weld pool producing a weld deposit of good
quality.
Gas Selection
The purpose of the gas in the MIG process is to shield the wire, the arc and
the molten weld metal from the atmosphere. Most metals when heated to a molten
state will react with the air in the atmosphere, without the protection of the
shielding gas the weld produced would contain defects like porosity, lack of
fusion and slag inclusions. Additionally, some of the gas becomes ionised
(electrically charged) and helps the current flow smoothly.
- The correct gas flow is critical in protecting the welding zone from the atmosphere.
- Too low a flow will give inadequate coverage and result in weld defects and unstable arc conditions.
- Too high a flow can cause air to be drawn into the gas column and contaminate the weld zone.
Use the correct shielding gas. CO2 is suitable for steel and offers good penetration characteristics; the weld profile is narrower and slightly more raised than the weld profile obtained from Argon CO2 mixed gas. Argon CO2 mix gas offers better weldability for thin metals and has a wider range of setting tolerance on the machine. Argon-CO2 5/2 is a good all-round mix suitable for most applications.
Wire Types and Sizes
Use the correct wire type for the base metal being welded. Use stainless steel
wire for stainless steel, aluminium wires for aluminium and steel wires for
steel.
Using poor quality milled wire can result in poor performance and appearance.
To ensure optimal performance when welding, use standards approved wire such
as UNIMIG HYPERMIG wire.
Use a smaller diameter wire for thin base metals. For thicker materials use a
larger wire diameter and larger machine.
Check the recommended welding capability of your machine.
Refer to the welding guide located on the door inside the machine.
Drive Roller Selection
The importance of smooth, consistent wire feeding during MIG welding cannot be
emphasised enough. The smoother the wire feed, the better the welding will be.
Feed rollers or drive rollers are used to feed the wire mechanically along the
length of the welding gun.
Drive rollers are designed to be used for certain types of welding wire, and
they have different types of grooves machined in them to accommodate the
different types of wire. The wire is held in the groove by the top roller of
the wire drive unit and is referred to as the pressure roller. Pressure is
applied by a tension arm that can be adjusted to increase or decrease the
pressure as required. The type of wire will determine how much pressure can be
applied and what type of drive roller is best suited to obtain optimum wire
feed.
Solid Hard Wire (V Groove)
Steel or stainless steel require a drive roller with a V shape groove for
optimum grip and drive capability. Solid wires can have more tension applied
to the wire from the top pressure roller that holds the wire in the groove,
and the V shape groove is more suited for this.
Aluminium (U Groove)
Aluminium requires a U shape groove. Aluminium wire has a lot less column
strength, can bend easily and is, therefore, more difficult to feed. Soft
wires can easily buckle at the wire feeder where the wire is fed into the
inlet guide tube of the torch. The U-shaped roller offers more surface area
grip and traction to help feed the softer wire. Softer wires also require less
tension from the top pressure roller to avoid deforming the shape of the wire,
too much tension will push the wire out of shape, causing feed issues.
Flux-Cored/Gasless Wire (Knurled/F Groove)
These wires are made up of a thin metal sheath that has fluxing, and metal
compounds layered onto it and then rolled into a cylinder to form the finished
wire. The wire cannot take too much pressure from the top roller as it can be
crushed and deformed if too much pressure is applied. A Knurled/F groove drive
roller has been developed, and it has small serrations in the groove. The
serrations grip the wire and assist in driving it without too much pressure
from the top roller. The downside to the knurled wire feed roller on flux-
cored wire is it will slowly eat away at the surface of the welding wire, and
these small pieces will eventually go down into the liner. This will cause
clogging in the liner and added friction that will lead to welding wire feed
problems.
Roller Diameter Size: 30/22
M24 BINZEL Style Digital MIG Torch
TECHNICAL DATA
Cooling Method| Air Cooled
Duty Cycle – CO2| 60% @ 250A
Duty Cycle – MIxed Gas| 60% @ 220A
Wire Size| 0.8-1.2mm
Standard| EN60974-7
TORCH LENGTHS
Length| 3m| 4m
SKU| U41010| U41011
M24 Digital MIG Torch Consumables
SKU | DESCRIPTION | QTY |
---|---|---|
PCTH24 | Tip Holder | 2 |
SKU | DESCRIPTION | QTY |
---|---|---|
PCGD24 | Gas Diffuser | 2 |
SKU | DESCRIPTION | QTY |
---|---|---|
PCT0009-06 | CONTACT TIPS – Steel 0.6mm | 10 |
PCT0009-08 | CONTACT TIPS – Steel 0.8mm | 10 |
PCT0009-09 | CONTACT TIPS – Steel 0.9mm | 10 |
PCT0009-10 | CONTACT TIPS – Steel 1.0mm | 10 |
PCT0009-12 | CONTACT TIPS – Steel 1.2mm | 10 |
PCT0009-16 | CONTACT TIPS – Steel 1.6mm | 10 |
PCTAL0009-09 | CONTACT TIPS – Aluminium 0.9mm | 10 |
PCTAL0009-10 | CONTACT TIPS – Aluminium 1.0mm | 10 |
PCTAL0009-12 | CONTACT TIPS – Aluminium 1.2mm | 10 |
SKU | DESCRIPTION | QTY |
---|---|---|
PGN24CON | GAS NOZZLE – Conical | 2 |
PGN24CYL | GAS NOZZLE – Cylindrical | 2 |
PGN24TAP | GAS NOZZLE – Tapered | 2 |
SKU | DESCRIPTION | WIRE SIZE |
---|---|---|
SLB3M | Blue Steel Liner 3 Metre | 0.6 – 0.8mm |
SLB4M | Blue Steel Liner 4 Metre | 0.6 – 0.8mm |
SLR3M | Red Steel Liner 3 Metre | 0.9 – 1.2mm |
SLR4M | Red Steel Liner 4 Metre | 0.9 – 1.2mm |
TLB3M | Blue Aluminium Liner 3 Metre | 0.6 – 0.8mm |
TLB4M | Blue Aluminium Liner 4 Metre | 0.6 – 0.8mm |
TLR3M | Red Aluminium Liner 3 Metre | 0.9 – 1.2mm |
TLR4M | Red Aluminium Liner 4 Metre | 0.9 – 1.2mm |
TLY3M | Yellow Aluminium Liner 3 Metre | 1.2 – 1.6mm |
TLY4M | Yellow Aluminium Liner 4 Metre | 1.2 – 1.6mm |
NKSTL | Neck Spring for Aluminium |
SKU | DESCRIPTION | QTY |
---|---|---|
U41013 | M24 Torch Swan Neck | 1 |
TIG: Machine Setup
NOTE: THIS MACHINE REQUIRES A EURO CONNECT STYLE TIG TORCH WITH TRIGGER
-
For DC Electrode (-) start by connecting the Euro Connect TIG torch into the center port.
DC- ELECTRODE
-
With the torch correctly lined up and pressed inwards, twist the locking nut to finish the torch installation.
-
Now connect the polarity cable into the (-) dinse port, and twist it to lock it in place.
-
After connecting the torch and polarity cable, plug the earth clamp into the (+) dinse port, and twist it to lock it in place.
-
Place argon flowmeter regulator into your gas outlet.
-
Tighten securely with wrench.
-
Connect gas hose to the flowmeter outlet using the twist nut to tighten the fitting securely.
-
Connect the other end of the gas hose to the gas inlet on the back of the machine.
-
Turn gas bottle on and twist the knob to adjust gas flow to 8-12L/min.
-
Connect the plug into a power point, then switch the machine ON.
-
Select TIG mode using the WELD MODE button located on the front panel. Then input your desired settings for amperage.
-
Connect earth clamp to your workpiece.
-
Press the button on the torch to initiate the gas flow.
-
Touch the tip of the tungsten to the workpiece.
-
Lift the torch up slightly to initiate the arc.
TIG Welding Guide
DC TIG Welding
The DC power source uses what is known as DC (direct current), in which the
main electrical component known as electrons flow in only one direction from
the negative pole (terminal) to the positive pole (terminal). In the DC
electrical circuit, there is an electrical principle at work which should
always be taken into account when using any DC circuit. With a DC circuit, 70%
of the energy (heat) is always on the positive side. This needs to be
understood because it determines what terminal the TIG torch will be connected
to (this rule applies to all the other forms of DC welding as well).
DC TIG welding is a process in which an arc is struck between a tungsten
electrode and the metal workpiece. The weld area is shielded by an inert gas
flow to prevent contamination of the tungsten, molten pool and weld area. When
the TIG arc is struck, the inert gas is ionised and superheated, changing its
molecular structure, which converts it into a plasma stream. This plasma
stream flowing between the tungsten and the workpiece is the TIG arc and can
be as hot as 19,000°C. It is a very pure and concentrated arc which provides
the controlled melting of most metals into a weld pool. TIG welding offers the
user the highest amount of flexibility to weld the widest range of material
thickness and types. DC TIG welding is also the cleanest weld with no sparks
or spatter.
The intensity of the arc is proportional to the current that flows from the
tungsten. The welder regulates the welding current to adjust the power of the
arc. Typically thin material requires a less powerful arc with less heat to
melt the material, so less current (amps) is required. Thicker material
requires a more powerful arc with more heat, so more current (amps) is
necessary to melt the material.
Lift Arc Ignition for TIG Welding
Lift Arc is a form of arc ignition where the tungsten electrode is touched to
the workpiece and then pulled upwards to initiate an arc. When the machine
detects that the tungsten has left the surface and a spark is present, it
immediately (within microseconds) increases power, converting the spark to a
full arc. It is a simple, safe, lower-cost alternative arc ignition process to
HF (high frequency) and a superior arc start process to scratch start.
Lift Arc ignition allows the arc to be started easily in DC TIG by simply
touching the tungsten to the workpiece and lifting it to start the arc. This
prevents the tungsten tip from sticking to the workpiece and breaking the tip
from the tungsten electrode. There is a particular technique called “rocking
the cup” used in the Lift Arc process that provides easy use of the Lift Arc
function.
Lay the nozzle on the job without
the tungsten touching the work.| Rock the torch sideways so that
the tungsten touches the work &
hold momentarily.| Rock the torch back in the oppositedirection, the arc will
ignite as the
tungsten lifts off the work.| Lift the torch to maintain the arc.
TIG Welding Fusion Technique
Manual TIG welding is often considered the most difficult of all the welding
processes. Because the welder must maintain a short arc length, great care and
skill are required to prevent contact between the electrode and the workpiece.
Similar to Oxygen cetylene torch welding, TIG welding typically requires two
hands and in most instances requires the welder to manually feed a filler wire
into the weld pool with one hand while manipulating the welding torch in the
other. However, some welds combining thin materials can be accomplished
without filler metal, such as edge, corner, and butt joints. This is known as
Fusion welding where the edges of the metal pieces are melted together using
only the heat and arc force generated by the TIG arc. Once the arc is started,
the torch tungsten is held in place until a weld pool is created, a circular
movement of the tungsten will assist in creating a weld pool of the desired
size. Once the weld pool is established, tilt the torch at about a 75° angle
and move smoothly and evenly along the joint while fusing the materials
together.
TIG Welding with Filler Wire Technique
It is necessary for many situations with TIG welding to add a filler wire into
the weld pool to build up weld reinforcement and create a strong weld. Once
the arc is started, the torch tungsten is held in place until a weld pool is
created, a circular movement of the tungsten will assist in creating a weld
pool of the desired size. Once the weld pool is established, tilt the torch at
about a 75° angle and move smoothly and evenly along the joint. The filler
metal is introduced to the leading edge of the weld pool. The filler wire is
usually held at about a 15° angle and fed into the leading edge of the molten
pool. The arc will melt the filler wire into the weld pool as the torch is
moved forward. Also, a dabbing technique can be used to control the amount of
filler wire added. The wire is fed into the molten pool and retracted in a
repeating sequence as the torch is moved slowly and evenly forward. It is
essential during the welding to keep the molten end of the filler wire inside
the gas shield as this protects the end of the wire from being oxidised and
contaminating the weld pool.
Tungsten Preparation
Always use DIAMOND wheels when grinding and cutting, and be weary of breathing
the dust created by the tungsten. While tungsten is a tough material, the
surface of a diamond wheel is harder, and this makes for smooth grinding.
Grinding without diamond wheels, such as aluminium oxide wheels, can lead to
jagged edges, imperfections, or poor surface finishes not visible to the eye
that will contribute to weld inconsistency and weld defects.
Always ensure to grind the tungsten in a longitudinal direction on the
grinding wheel. Tungsten electrodes are manufactured with the molecular
structure of the grain running lengthwise and thus grinding crosswise is
“grinding against the grain.” If electrodes are ground crosswise, the
electrons have to jump across the grinding marks, and the arc can start before
the tip and wander. Grinding longitudinally with the grain causes the
electrons to flow steadily and easily to the end of the tungsten tip. The arc
starts straight and remains narrow, concentrated, and stable.
Electrode Tip/Flat
The shape of the tungsten electrode tip is an important process variable in
precision arc welding. A good selection of tip/flat size will balance the need
for several advantages. The bigger the flat, the more likely arc wander will
occur and the more difficult it will be to arc start. However, increasing the
flat to the maximum level that still allows arc starts and eliminates arc
wander will improve the weld penetration and increase the electrode life. Some
welders still grind electrodes to a sharp point, which makes arc starting
easier. However, they risk decreased welding performance from melting at the
tip and the possibility of the point falling off into the weld pool.
Electrode Included Angle/Taper – DC
Tungsten electrodes for DC welding should be ground longitudinally and
concentrically with diamond wheels to a specific included angle in conjunction
with the tip/flat preparation. Different angles produce different arc shapes
and offer different weld penetration capabilities. In general, blunter
electrodes that have a larger included angle provide the following benefits:
- Last longer
- Have better weld penetration
- Have a narrower arc shape
- Can handle more amperage without eroding
Sharper electrodes with smaller included angle provide:
- Offer less arc weld
- Have a wider arc
- Have a more consistent arc
The included angle determines the weld bead shape and size. Generally, as the included angle increases, penetration increases and bead width decreases.
TIG Tungsten Selection Guide
| LANTHANATED
(GOLD)| ZIRCONIATED
(WHITE)| THORIATED
(RED)| RARE EARTH
(PURPLE)| CERIATED
(GREY)
---|---|---|---|---|---
AC CURRENT| | | | |
DC CURRENT| | | | |
ALUMINIUM| | | | |
MILD STEEL| | | | |
STAINLESS STEEL| | | | |
TITANIUM /
COPPER ALLOYS| | | | |
ARC IGNITION| | | | |
TUNGSTEN LIFE| | | | |
ARC STABILITY| | | | |
RESISTANCE TO
CONTAMINATION| | | | |
AC PERFORMANCE| | | N/A| |
This information is intended to act as a guide only, individual results may
vary depending on technique, skill and material.
Tungsten Electrodes Rating for Welding Currents
Tungsten Diameter (mm)| Diameter at the Tip (mm)|
Constant Included Angle (°)| Current Range (Amps)|
Current Range (Pulsed Amps)
---|---|---|---|---
1.0mm| 0.25| 20| 5 – 30| 5 – 60
1.6mm| 0.5| 25| 8 – 50| 5 – 100
1.6mm| 0.8| 30| 10 – 70| 10 – 140
2.4mm| 0.8| 35| 12 – 90| 12 – 180
2.4mm| 1.1| 45| 15 – 150| 15 – 250
3.2mm| 1.1| 60| 20 – 200| 20 – 300
3.2mm| 1.5| 90| 25 – 250| 25 – 350
MMA: Machine Setup
-
For DC+ electrodes, connect earth clamp to the (-) dinse connection, and electrode holder to the (+) dinseconnection.
-
For DC- electrodes, connect earth clamp to the (+) dinse connection, and electrode holder to the (-) dinse connection.
-
Connect the plug into a power point, then switch the machine ON.
-
Ensure that MMA mode is activated on the front panel by pressing the WELD MODE button. Then set your desired amperage using ADJUSTMENT KNOB A.
-
Twist electrode holder to loosen grip.
-
Place electrode into electrode holder
-
Twist electrode holder to tighten and securely gripelectrode.
-
Connect earth clamp to your workpiece.
-
Strike electrode to the workpiece to initiate arc.
-
Drag along workpiece to weld. Pull the electrode away from the workpiece to finish weld.
MMA: Welding Guide
One of the most common types of arc welding is Manual Metal Arc welding, also known as MMA welding. An electric current is used to strike an arc between the base material and a consumable electrode rod or ‘stick’. The electrode rod is made of a material that is compatible with the base material being welded. They are covered with a flux that gives off gaseous vapours that serve as a shielding gas and provide a layer of slag, both of which protect the weld area from atmospheric contamination. The electrode core itself acts as filler material. The residue from the flux that forms a slag covering over the weld metal must be chipped away after welding.
- The arc is initiated by momentarily touching the electrode to the base metal.
- The heat of the arc melts the surface of the base metal to form a molten pool at the end of the electrode.
- The melted electrode metal is transferred across the arc into the molten pool and becomes the deposited weld metal.
- The deposit is covered and protected by a slag which comes from the electrode coating.
- The arc and the immediate area are enveloped by an atmosphere of protective gas.
Manual Metal Arc (stick) electrodes have a solid metal wire core and a flux
coating. These electrodes are identified by the wire diameter and by a series
of letters and numbers. The letters and numbers identify the metal alloy and
the intended use of the electrode.
The metal wire core works as a conductor of the current that maintains the
arc. The core wire melts and is deposited into the welding pool.
The covering on a shielded metal arc welding electrode is called flux. The
flux on the electrode performs many different functions.
These include:
- Producing a protective gas around the weld area.
- Providing fluxing elements and de-oxidisers.
- Creating a protective slag coating over the weld as it cools.
- Establishing arc characteristics.
- Adding alloying elements.
Covered electrodes serve many purposes in addition to adding filler metal to
the molten pool. These additional functions are provided mainly by the
covering on the electrode.
Electrode Selection
As a general rule, the selection of an electrode is straight forward, in that
it is only a matter of selecting an electrode of similar composition to the
parent metal. However, for some metals, there is a choice of several
electrodes, each of which has particular properties to suit specific classes
of work.
The size of the electrode generally depends on the thickness of the section
being welded, and the thicker the section, the larger the electrode required.
The table gives the maximum size of electrodes that may be used for
variousthicknesses of section based on using a general-purpose type 6013
electrode.
Correct current selection for a particular job is an important factor in arc
welding. With the current set too low, it is difficult to strike and maintain
a stable arc. The penetration is reduced and beads with a distinct rounded
profile will be deposited. Too high a current is accompanied by overheating of
the electrode, resulting in undercut, burning through of the base metal and
producing excessive spatter.
Average Thickness of Material| Maximum Recommended
Electrode Diameter
---|---
1.0 – 2.0mm| 2.5mm
2.0 – 5.0mm| 3.2mm
5.0mm| 4.0mm
Electrode Size (ø mm)| Current Range (Amps)
---|---
2.5mm| 60 – 100
3.2mm| 90 – 150
4.0mm| 140 – 200
Arc Length
To strike the arc, the electrode should be gently scraped on the work until
the arc is established. There is a simple rule for the proper arc length; it
should be the shortest arc that gives a good surface to the weld. An arc too
long reduces penetration, produces spatter and gives a rough surface finish to
the weld. An excessively short arc will cause sticking of the electrode and
result in poor quality welds. The general rule of thumb for down hand welding
is to have an arc length no greater than the diameter of the core wire.
Electrode Angle
The angle that the electrode makes with the work is important to ensure a
smooth, even transfer of metal. When welding in down hand, fillet, horizontal
or overhead, the angle of the electrode is generally between 5 and 15 degrees
towards the direction of travel. When vertical up welding, the angle of the
electrode should be between 80 and 90 degrees to the workpiece.
Travel Speed
The electrode should be moved along in the direction of the joint being welded
at a speed that will give the size of run required. At the same time, the
electrode is fed downwards to keep the correct arc length at all times.
Excessive travel speeds lead to poor fusion, lack of penetration, etc., while
too slow a rate of travel will frequently lead to arc instability, slag
inclusions and poor mechanical properties.
Material and Joint Preparation
The material to be welded should be clean and free of any moisture, paint,
oil, grease, mill scale, rust or any other material that will hinder the arc
and contaminate the weld material. Joint preparation will depend on the method
used include sawing, punching, shearing, machining, flame cutting and others.
In all cases, edges should be clean and free of any contaminates. The chosen
application will determine the type of joint.
MIG Troubleshooting
-
Excessive Spatter
• Wire feed speed set too high: Select lower wire feed speed.
• Voltage too high: Select a lower voltage setting.
• Wrong polarity set: Select the correct polarity for the wire being used – see machine setup guide.
• Stick out too long: Bring the torch closer to the work.
• Contaminated base metal: Remove materials like paint, grease, oil, and dirt, including mill scale from base metal.
• Contaminated MIG wire: Use clean, dry, rust-free wire. Do not lubricate the wire with oil, grease etc.
• Inadequate gas flow or too much gas flow: Check the gas is connected, check hoses, gas valve and torch are not restricted. Set the gas flow between 8-12 L/min flow rate. Check hoses and fittings for holes, leaks etc. -
Porosity – Small cavities or holes resulting from gas pockets in weld metal
• Wrong gas: Check that the correct gas is being used.
• Inadequate gas flow or too much gas flow: Check the gas is connected, check hoses, gas valve and torch are not restricted. Set the gas flow between 8-12 L/min flow rate. Check hoses and fittings for holes, leaks etc. Protect the welding zone from wind and drafts.
• Moisture on the base metal: Remove all moisture from base metal before welding.
• Contaminated base metal: Remove materials like paint, grease, oil, and dirt, including mill scale from base metal.
• Contaminated MIG wire: Use clean, dry, rust-free wire. Do not lubricate the wire with oil, grease etc.
• Gas nozzle clogged with spatter, worn or out of shape: Clean or replace the gas nozzle.
• Missing or damaged gas diffuser: Replace the gas diffuser.
• MIG torch Euro connect O-ring missing or damaged: Check and replace the O-ring. -
Wire stubbing during welding
• Holding the torch too far away: Bring the torch closer to the work and maintain stick out of 5-10mm.
• Welding voltage set too low: Increase the voltage.
• Wire feed speed set too high: Decrease the wire feed speed. -
Lack of fusion – Failure of weld metal to fuse completely with base metal or a proceeding weld bead
• Contaminated base metal: Remove materials like paint, grease, oil, and dirt, including mill scale from base metal.
• Not enough heat input: Select a higher voltage range and/or adjust the wire speed to suit.
• Improper welding technique: Keep the arc at the leading edge of the weld pool. Gun angle to work should be between 5° & 15°. Direct the arc at the weld joint. Adjust work angle or widen groove to access bottom duringwelding. Momentarily hold arc on side walls if using weaving technique. -
Excessive penetration – Weld metal melting through base metal
• Too much heat: Select a lower voltage range and/or adjust the wire speed to suit. Increase travel speed. -
Lack of penetration – Shallow fusion between weld metal and base metal
• Poor or incorrect joint preparation: Material too thick. Joint preparation and design needs to allow access to bottom of groove while maintaining proper welding wire extension and arc characteristics. Keep the arc at the leading edge of the weld pool and maintain the gun angle at 5° & 15° keeping the stick out between 5-10mm.
• Not enough heat input: Select a higher voltage range and/or adjust the wire speed to suit. Reduce travel speed.
• Contaminated base metal: Remove materials like paint, grease, oil, and dirt, including mill scale from base metal. -
No wire feed
• Wrong mode selected: Check that the TIG/MMA/MIG selector switch is set to MIG position.
• Wrong torch selector switch: Check that the STANDARD/SPOOL GUN selector switch is set to STANDARD position for MIG welding and SPOOL GUN when using the spool gun. -
Inconsistent/interrupted wire feed
• Adjusting wrong dial: Be sure to adjust the WIRE FEED and VOLTAGE dials for MIG welding. The AMPERAGE dial is for STICK and TIG welding mode.
• Wrong polarity selected: Select the correct polarity for the wire being used – see machine setup guide.
• Incorrect wire speed setting: Adjust the wire feed speed.
• Voltage setting incorrect: Adjust the voltage setting.
• MIG torch lead too long: Small diameter wires and soft wires like aluminium don’t feed well through long torch leads – replace the torch with a shorter length torch.
• MIG torch lead kinked or too sharp angle being held: Remove the kink, reduce the angle or bend.
• Contact tip worn, wrong size, wrong type: Replace the tip with correct size and type.
• Liner worn or clogged (the most common causes of bad feeding): Try to clear the liner by blowing out with compressed air as a temporary cure. It is recommended to replace the liner.
• Wrong size liner: Install the correct size liner.
• Blocked or worn inlet guide tube: Clear or replace the inlet guide tube.
• Wire misaligned in drive roller groove: Locate the wire into the groove of the drive roller.
• Incorrect drive roller size: Fit the correct size drive roller e.g. 0.8mm wire requires 0.8mm drive roller.
• Wrong type of drive roller selected: Fit the correct type roller (e.g. knurled rollers needed for flux cored wires).
• Worn drive rollers: Replace the drive rollers.
• Drive roller pressure too high: Can flatten the wire electrode causing it to lodge in the contact tip – reduce the drive roller pressure.
• Too much tension on wire spool hub: Reduce the spool hub brake tension.
• Wire crossed over on the spool or tangled: Remove the spool, untangle the wire or replace the wire.
• Contaminated MIG wire: Use clean, dry, rust-free wire. Do not lubricate the wire with oil, grease etc.
TIG Troubleshooting
-
Tungsten burning away quickly
• Incorrect gas or no gas: Use pure argon. Check cylinder has gas, connected, turned on, and torch valve is open.
• Inadequate gas flow: Check the gas is connected, check hoses, gas valve and torch are not restricted.
• Back cap not fitted correctly: Make sure the torch back cap is fitted so that the O-ring is inside the torch body.
• Torch connected to DC+: Connect the torch to the DC- output terminal.
• Incorrect tungsten being used: Check and change the tungsten type if necessary.
• Tungsten being oxidised after weld is finished: Keep shielding gas flowing 10-15 seconds after arc stoppage. -
Contaminated tungsten
• Touching tungsten into the weld pool: Keep tungsten from contacting weld puddle. Raise the torch so that the tungsten is off of the work piece 2-5mm.
• Touching the filler wire to the tungsten: Keep the filler wire from touching the tungsten during welding, feed the filler wire into the leading edge of the weld pool in front of the tungsten. -
Porosity – Poor weld appearance and colour
• Wrong gas / poor gas flow / gas leaks: Use pure argon. Gas is connected, check hoses, gas valve and torch are not restricted. Set the gas flow between 8-12 L/min. Check hoses and fittings for holes, leaks etc.
• Contaminated base metal: Remove moisture and materials like paint, grease, oil, and dirt from base metal.
• Contaminated filler wire: Remove all grease, oil, or moisture from filler metal.
• Incorrect filler wire: Check the filler wire and change if necessary. -
Yellowish residue/smoke on the alumina nozzle & discoloured tungsten
• Incorrect gas: Use pure argon gas.
• Inadequate gas flow: Set the gas flow between 8-12 L/min flow rate.
• Alumina gas nozzle too small: Increase the size of the alumina gas nozzle. -
Unstable arc during welding
• Torch connected to DC+: Connect the torch to the DC- output terminal.
• Contaminated base metal: Remove materials like paint, grease, oil, and dirt, including mill scale from base metal.
• Tungsten is contaminated: Remove 10mm of contaminated tungsten and re-grind the tungsten.
• Arc length too long: Lower torch so that the tungsten is off of the work piece 2-5mm. -
Arc wanders during welding
• Poor gas flow: Check and set the gas flow between 8-12 L/min flow rate.
• Amperage too low: Increase the amperage.
• Incorrect arc length: Lower torch so that the tungsten is off of the work piece 2-5mm.
• Tungsten incorrect or in poor condition: Check that correct type of tungsten is being used. Remove 10mm from the weld end of the tungsten and re-sharpen the tungsten.
• Poorly prepared tungsten: Grind marks should run lengthwise with tungsten, not circular. Use proper grinding method and wheel.
• Contaminated base metal or filler wire: Remove contaminating materials like paint, grease, oil, and dirt, including mill scale, from base metal. Remove all grease, oil, or moisture from filler metal. -
Arc difficult to start or will not start welding
• Incorrect machine set up: Check machine set up is correct.
• No gas, incorrect gas flow: Check the gas is connected and cylinder valve open, check hoses, gas valve and torch are not restricted. Set the gas flow between 8-12 L/min flow rate.
• Incorrect tungsten size or type: Check and change the size and or the tungsten if required.
• Loose connection: Check all connectors and tighten.
• Earth clamp not connected to work: Connect the earth clamp directly to the workpiece wherever possible.
MMA (STICK) Troubleshooting
-
No arc
• Incomplete welding circuit: Check earth lead is connected. Check all cable connections.
• Wrong mode selected: Check the MMA selector switch is selected.
• No power supply: Check that the machine is switched on and has a power supply. -
Porosity – Small cavities or holes resulting from gas pockets in weld metal
• Arc length too long: Shorten the arc length.
• Workpiece dirty, contaminated or moisture: Remove moisture and materials like paint, grease, oil, and dirt, including mill scale, from base metal.
• Damp electrodes: Use only dry electrodes. -
Excessive spatter
• Amperage too high: Decrease the amperage or choose a smaller electrode.
• Arc length too long: Shorten the arc length. -
Weld sits on top, lack of fusion
• Insufficient heat input: Increase the amperage or choose a smaller electrode.
• Workpiece dirty, contaminated or moisture: Remove moisture and materials like paint, grease, oil, and dirt, including mill scale, from base metal.
• Poor welding technique: Use the correct welding technique or seek assistance for the correct technique. -
Lack of penetration
• Insufficient heat input: Increase the amperage or choose a smaller electrode.
• Poor welding technique: Use the correct welding technique or seek assistance for the correct technique.
• Poor joint preparation: Check the joint design and fit up, make sure the material is not too thick. Seek assistance for the
correct joint design and fit up. -
Excessive penetration – Burn through
• Excessive heat input: Reduce the amperage or use a larger electrode.
• Incorrect travel speed: Try increasing the weld travel speed. -
Uneven weld appearance
• Unsteady hand, wavering hand: Use two hands where possible to steady up, practise your technique. -
Distortion – Movement of base metal during welding
• Excessive heat input: Reduce the amperage or use a larger electrode.
• Poor welding technique: Use the correct welding technique or seek assistance for the correct technique.
• Poor joint preparation and/or joint design: Check the joint design and fit up, make sure the material is not too thick.
Seek assistance for the correct joint design and fit up. -
Electrode welds with different or unusual arc characteristic
• Incorrect polarity: Change the polarity, check the electrode manufacturer for correct polarity.
Factory Reset
If you wish to reset the machine to factory settings, press and hold the
Welding Mode Selection Button for 5 seconds to restore factory settings.
After pressing and holding for 5 seconds, the display window will count down
from 3. When the countdown ends, the factory settings are restored. If the
button is released before the countdown ends, the factory restore will not
take place.
WARNING THIS CANNOT BE UNDONE
Indicator Lights
THERMAL OVERLOAD
Typically caused by duty cycle limits. DO NOT POWER OFF MACHINE. Wait for the
machine to cool down and for indicator to turn off before welding again.
OVERCURRENT LIMIT
Typically caused by internal fault of machine. Restart machine and attempt to
weld again. If problem persists contact UNIMIG Service Support.
VRD – NORMAL –
ABNORMAL
Voltage Reduction Device is a safety feature for MMA welding. If this indicator turns red restart the machine. If it persists contact UNIMIG Service Support.
WARNING: There are extremely dangerous voltage and power levels present inside this unit. Do not attempt to diagnose or repair unit by removing external cover unless you are an authorised repair agent for UNIMIG.
Error Codes
Error Code | Issue | Details |
---|---|---|
E10 | Overcurrent Protection | The machine is outputting more current than it is |
rated for. This is likely due to internal fault.
Possible Solution: Power down and restart machine.
E31| Under Voltage Protection| Voltage source for machine is too low. This is
likely caused by an extension cable.
Possible Solution: Remove any extension cables and check power socket and
machine power wire. Attempt weld on a different power circuit.
E32| Over Voltage Protection| Voltage source for machine is too high.
Possible Solution: Remove any extension cables and check power socket and
machine power wire. Attempt weld on a different power circuit.
E34| Under Voltage Error| Power supply voltage is too low. This is likely
caused by internal fault.
Possible Solution: Remove any extension cables and check power socket and
machine power wire. Attempt weld on a different power circuit.
E60| Rectifier Overheat| Internal temperature is too high. This is likely
caused by reaching duty cycle limit.
DO NOT TURN OFF MACHINE! Wait for machine to cool down and for indicator
warning to turn off.
E61| IGBT Overheat| Internal temperature is too high. This is likely caused by
reaching duty cycle limit.
DO NOT TURN OFF MACHINE! Wait for machine to cool down and for indicator
warning to turn off.
RED VRD ICON| Abnormal VRD| The No-Load voltage is too high. This is likely
caused by VRD fault.
Possible Solution: Power down and restart machine.
After attempting the possible solutions listed in the chart above please contact UNIMIG Support Services if you are still experiencing issues with your machine.
Wiring Diagrams
Machine Breakdown and Parts List
| Code| Name
---|---|---
1| 51001686| Bracket for Rear Panel
2| 51002122| Rear Panel
3| 51001730| Rear Handle Aluminum Rod
4| *| Iron Sheet
5| 51002181| Gas Adapter
6| 51002212| Power Cable Clip
7| 10084286| Switch
8| 51003657| Cover
9| 51001729| Front Handle Aluminum Rod
10| 51001724| Handle Metal Base
11| 51002190| Handle Plastic Base
12| 51001022| Control Board
13| 51001723| Bracket for Fan
14| 51001816| Fan
15| 51000778| Fan
16| 51001003| Main Board
17| 51001728| Bracket
18| 51003655| Right Side Cover
19| 51001727| Bracket
20| 51001705| Connector
21| 51001576| Hall Sensor
22| 51001897| Knob
23| 51003541| Front Sticker
24| 51001768| Silicon Rubber Keypads
25| 51003651| Silicon Rubber Keypads
26| 51001726| Display Board Support Plate
27| 51003302| HDS
28| 51001247| Transceiver
29| 51000968| Polarity Switching Cable
30| 51001565| 9-Pin Socket Assembly
| Code| Name
---|---|---
31| 51002374| Quick Socket
32| 51002095| Front Panel
33| 51001033| Light Board
34| 51002222| Front Bracket
36| 51002221| Middle Clapboard
37| 51000975| Euro Connector
38| 10055074| Wire Feeding Motor Assembly
39| 51002191| Wire Feeder Base
40| 51002096| Wire Feeder Isolation Cover
41| 51001698| Bottom Board (Filter & Power Board)
42| 51000840| Accessory Box
43| 51000453| Spool Holder
44| 51000962| Solenoid Valve
45| 51003656| Left Side Cover
46| 51000810| Door Catch
47| 51001319| Hinge
48| 51002098| Windshield
50| 51000947| Reactor
51| 51001706| Connector
52| 51001762| Rectifier Heat Sink
53| 51000601| IGBT
54| 51000708| Thermistor
55| 51000602| IGBT
56| 51000332| Bridge Rectifier Heat Sink
57| 51000701| FRD
58| 51000707| Thermistor
59| 51000760| Main Transformer
60| 51001760| Heat Sink
61| 51001424| Filtering Capacitor
Notes
BUILT FOR WELDERS
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