Ac hf

[iil]

HEY!
i havent been able to find out this by searching the net so im gonna ask here. when welding in AC squarewave do i need a constant HF curent to go along an keep the arc lit if/if not i would very much apreciate an explenation about why ? im kind of an electronics guy and not the pro welder, so im hoping for a quick answer that i can understand ?
Best regards!

[performance]

The HF is for starting only. An inverter does not need a constant overlay of HF to sustain the arc.Once the arc starts the HF quits. Its your choice to start HF or lift...When it comes to aluminum, though you had better use the HF to keep contamination of the tungsten down.

[iil]

thanks! but what does the HF do against contamination on Aluminium?

[performance]

The HF starts the arc without contact with the metal. It only has to be close so not to transfer molten aluminum to the tip of the redhot tungsten. HF energy causes it to jump the short air gap between the base metal and the tungsten tip.

[iil]

thanks alot! really apreciate it!
Best regards

[DiabolicZ]

Also keep in mind that it is common to have to slightly scratch the tungsten on the material being welded. You do this before you hit the foot pedal or torch button. Just a little scratch, sometimes even just a touch does it.