During TIG welding (Tungsten Argon Arc Welding), the condition of the tungsten electrode should be checked regularly to ensure stable arc, consistent weld quality, and prevent defects caused by electrode ablation, contamination, or deformation. The specific frequency of inspection depends on the strength of use, welding material, current and degree of automation, but the following principles can be used as a reference:
1.It Is Recommended To Inspect It Once Before Each Welding
It is a good practice to check the electrode for wear, end shape, and contamination or ablation before each start welding. Especially in manual welding, the electrode may be deformed, spherical or mixed in the previous welding, and should be detected and trimmed in time.
2.During The Continuous Welding Process, Check Every Piece Or Several Workpieces After Welding
If you are welding a batch of products (especially stainless steel or weldments with high cleanliness requirements), it is recommended to check the electrode status once after welding every 1~3 workpieces to confirm whether it needs to be re-ground or replaced. When using high currents or welding continuously for long periods of time, the inspection frequency should be higher.
3.The Tungsten Electrode Must Be Checked Immediately When The Following Situations Occur
Unstable arc, arc skipping or difficulty arcing;
the width and depth of the weld are obviously abnormal;
Impurities in the weld (possibly tungsten inclusions);
After the electrode contacts the weldment or the weld pool;
The electrode is dull, severely spherical or blackened.
4.In Automatic Welding Or Robot Welding, Periodic Shutdown Inspection Can Be Set
In automated welding systems, periodic inspections or replacements should be carried out in conjunction with welding time or electrode life, such as after every 30 minutes of operation or after every 100 welds. At the same time, it can be combined with the number of electrodes used for statistical maintenance.
5.Frequency Reference Is Recommended
| Welding strength | Check frequency recommendations |
| Sporadic welding | Check before and after each welding |
| Batch hand welding | Every weld 1~3 products are inspected |
| Long-term high-current welding | Check every 10~15 minutes |
| Automated welding | Check every 30 minutes or fixed pieces |
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