Dont get stuck on stick ADVANCED

1. New expressions.

1. Having the right machine for the application is the starting point for success.

2. First check if the material you are welding has rust, oil, or other surface contamination.
3. Setting the current too low means youll have a hard time initiating and maintaining an arc.
4. It can overexpose the electrode and make it prone to sticking to the base material.
5. Changing the travel angle during welding can cause a lack of fusion or penetration within the weld.

a having a natural inclination or tendency to something

b to have difficulty doing something
c a basis for or introduction to study, discussion, or further development
d to make the metal not penetrate
e all unwanted impurities on the outer part of the material

2. Techincal words

Before reading, check the following words with your teacher or in a dictionary.

power source three-phase power alternating current deep-penetrating moisture

Polarity arc penetration drag angle shelf life

3. Reading.
You are now going to read a part of PRACTICAL WELDING TODAY article by Philip Brown

Dont get stuck on stick

The foundational principles that will help beginners become good stick welders include
choosing the correct electrode, properly setting up their power source, and mastering
both a consistent work angle and a consistent travel speed.

Basic welding principles such as travel speed, travel angle, and work angle are critical to success, and you will see
significant differences by simply adjusting these parameters. As a result, the basics of stick lay the foundation
that will help you become a better welder.

If you are a beginning welder who is struggling with this process, following some simple tips and best practices
will help you be successful.

No. 1: Choosing the Right Machine

Having the right machine for the application is the starting point for success. Key factors to consider when
choosing a welding power source include the necessary duty cycle and the amperage draw required for the job.

Its also important to consider the machines input power requirement, size, and any portability needs you might
have. The available electrical hookup may be 120, 240, or 480 volts, so be sure to select a machine that matches
the power available, whether its single- or three-phase power.

Consider choosing a multiprocess machine with the capability to perform gas metal arc welding (GMAW) and gas
tungsten arc welding (GTAW) in addition to stick. Future applications may call for a variety of welding processes,

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making a multiprocess machine a cost-effective and space-saving option compared to purchasing several
single-process machines. These machines are a great way to give beginners the opportunity to gain experience
with more than one process.

No. 2: Selecting Your Electrode

The type of material you are welding plus the needs or requirements of the application will help you determine
which electrode to choose. Using an alternating current (AC) machine also limits what type of electrodes can be
used most effectively.

When choosing an electrode, first check if the material you are welding has rust, oil, or other surface
contamination as some electrodes are better able to handle it than others. Also consider the position of the weld.
For example, a vertical-up weld will likely require a different electrode than one performed in the flat position. If
an application has code requirements, the specifications may include electrode type.

The most common stick electrodes are:

6010. This deep-penetrating electrode is capable of dealing with surface contamination such as rust or
oil, though it potentially requires heavy postweld grinding.

7014. This easy-welding electrode offers a smooth, stable arc and works best on a clean surface.

7018. This low-hydrogen electrode is popular for code work in industrial applications. It requires
careful handling and storage to prevent moisture pickup.

Consult a filler metal or welding equipment manufacturer if you have questions about an electrode choice for a
specific application.

No. 3: Setting Your Machine

Once you select your electrode, make sure to choose the correct polarity. Choosing the incorrect polarity is a
common mistake in machine setup.

The right polarity is typically listed on the electrode packaging or on the material data sheet. Most electrodes
come with a material data sheet that specifies the proper polarity, angles, and current ranges.

Setting the current range too high will result in a lot of spatter and a volatile arc. Setting the current too low
means youll have a hard time initiating and maintaining an arc.

No. 4: Striking an Arc

To properly strike the arc in stick welding, brush or scrape the end of the electrode against the base material.

Some electrode types, such as 7018, form a hard slag shell over the end of the electrode after welding. You must
break off this shell to expose the bare electrode for electrical contact before you can restart the arc. To do this,
remove the electrode from the holder and tap the slag-covered end against the base material or against the
concrete floor. Take care to avoid breaking off too much material, which can overexpose the electrode and make
it prone to sticking to the base material.

Once the arc is drawn, its typical to hold an arc length from 18 inch to 14 in. between the end of the electrode
and the workpiece. Proper arc length varies by electrode type, and it is typically specified in an electrodes
material data sheet. The welding position can also impact proper arc length. A vertical-up weld, for example, will
traditionally call for a tighter arc to help control the weld puddle.

An electrode that is too close to the workpiece can snuff out the arc by burying it in the molten weld puddle. An
electrode that is positioned too far from the workpiece will cause a wide arc, meaning not enough metal will be
deposited into the joint, causing a lack of penetration.

You should always drag the arc toward you when stick welding, typically with a 10- to 30-degree drag angle. A
push motion will cause heavy slag coverage and an uneven weld.

Practical Welding Today July/August 2017 July 27, 2017By: Philip Brown

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 4. True or false.

1. Basic welding rules are not crucial for a positive final ressult of a weld.
2.A good electrode is suitable for any material.
3.Eloctrode packaging usually contains the correct polarity
4.Current has no effect on spatting.
5.A wide arc helps to get a good penetration.
6.The speed at which you weld depends on the weld size.

5. The -ing form.

The -ing noun can be used:

as the subject of a verb:

Learning English is not easy.

as the object of a verb:

We enjoy learning English.

after a noun:

Who is that man standing over there?

The boy talking to Angela is her younger brother.

and especially after verbs like see, watch, hear, smell etc.
I heard someone playing the piano.
I can smell something burning.

Fill in the following sentences with an -ing form from the text.

1.Basic welding principles such as travel speed, travel angle, and work angle are critical to success, and you will
see significant differences by simply__________________ these parameters.

2. __________________the incorrect polarity is a common mistake in machine setup.

3.Setting the current too low means youll have a hard time ___________________ and ___________________ an arc.

4.To properly strike the arc in stick ________________, brush or scrape the end of the electrode against the base
material.

6. Discussion topics.
1. Where do you find an application for stick wleding?
2.What are the advantages over other welding methods?
3.Are there any dangers associated with this work?
4.What challanges have you encountered?
5.What advice would you give to a freshman?

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