Tig

[Bbqguy]

I am new to the site and really to the welding world. I am in the process of learning (relearning after about 40 years) several welding techniques with TIG being one of them. I have relatively little problem (again 101 stuff) with MIG, Gas and Stick welding. I do however have a huge problem with TIG. The puddle is next to impossible for me to see when it forms. I have tried several helmets, different shades, cheaters within the helmet ( using a 2.0 currently) , without cheaters, with and without prescription glasses, torch in several positions, and head up to and including almost laying on the table. I know it is me due to others using the same machine and settings and doing well.
I have seen some past posts on this site and it appears I have tried most every fix that was suggested to no avail.
I am about to give up and go fishing. I am open to any suggestions from anyone that would be willing to help.

[H80N]

Lots of good resources here

https://www.millerwelds.com/resources/welding-resources/tig-welding-resources

https://www.millerwelds.com/resources/welding-resources

what model welder...?? and what do you plan to weld...??

[OscarJr]

Can you find a picture on google images of what you do see? post it here. It will be worth 1000 words.

[MAC702]

How much light do you have on your weldment?

[H80N]

How much light do you have on your weldment?

Good Thought Mac.....

http://www.millerwelds.com/resources/communities/mboard/search?q=halogen&searchJSON=%7B%22keywords%22%3A%22halogen%22%7D

[ryanjones2150]

Try a Pyrex cup. It's not magical, but it will allow you to see a heck of a lot more and the lights diffuses much better. Worth a go, eh?

[Goodhand]

I've found the clip-on flip-up lenses to be the most convenient to use. They can be attached to most any glasses, and flip out of the field of vision when not needed, but are still right there when you want to use 'em again. Sure beats a stationary magnifier that is usually dedicated to a specific job requirement. The flips can be obtained in a full-field (large) lens that covers the whole spectacle lens, or in a half-eye flip that covers the top half of the spectacle. These work great when leaning over the fender of a vehicle to work on the top of an engine, or for overhead work. The power range availability of these flips enable near point focusing of from 3' to 13".

A +2.00 diopter lens provides a center focus at 20”, so you may still be too far away from your puddle. I wear a +3.00 diopter flip-up when using my tig torch, providing a focus at 13”. Suggest you up the power to see if it makes a difference.

Amazon has numerous powers and styles available. Suggest stopping by Walmart, etc., to try different powers in “cheaters” for selected work/use distances, then ordering from Amazon. Should cost about $20 or less. Once at the Amazon site, you will have to do a bit of hunting to find flips of the correct (+3.00 diopter) power.

https://www.amazon.com/Magna-flip-Magnifiers-Converts-Distance-Sunglasses/dp/B002ULRUPK

[FusionKing]

I'm guessing he chose the fishing option.