TiG basics (syncrowave 180 sd)

[cgarrison]

I just bought a new syncrowave and I have never used a tig before. some problems I have been having recently are as listed.
- I keep melting the tip of the tungston even at low amps (70-90).
I have the tungston sticking about 1/8-1/4 out of the cup.

- While welding i keep throwing sparks as though I am mig welding

- Unless the amps are aroung 150 or so, I cant keep a flame unless im almost touching the metal (1/16").

-Im never going to be welding anything thicker than 1/8 inch steel, should i have a 1/16 or 3/32 tungston? Right now I have a 3/32.

Just for the record Im welding mild steel and have the welder set on negative polarity.

Thank you for answering my dumb questions!
Chris

[flash_burn]

What gas are you using and flow rate?
What type tungsten(green band,red band,etc)?
Cup size(4,5,6)?
Is the steel clean?
3/32 is good, I use 1/16 although.
I am no pro just a hobbyist in training.
Jim

[aeaspen]

I'll suggest you check out your ground from end to end for loose connections first then:[list=1][*]I assume you are using 100% Argon[*]Eventually you'll want to try 1/16", but stay with 3/32 to get started, it's more "forgiving"[*]Try with the input on 120 and the dig (small dial) on 5[*]Hold a sahrp tungsten about an 1/8 away from your steel[*]You should be able to start a quiet, splatter free arc melt a pool and stop. [*]If not something else is wrong[/list=1] We have a 180 and for all around work the perfomance has been just great. Hang in there.

[billmccandless]

Melting tungsten

If you are melting your tungsten, try reversing your polarity.

[klove1969]

Also Check your wiring if you have the ground crossed with either of the hot legs your machine will eat tungsten quickly and could burn up.