Violent Arc

[Aldo]

I'm trying to weld square .040 2*1/2 tubing. I was using 3/32 7014, because I have it. I was getting a lot of crap in the weld. Assuming I let moisture get to it or it was just old, I bought some 3/32 and 1/8" 7018. At first things went well with 3/32 at 90v. Then it took a turn. Rod was sticking. in about 5v increments, I got to 100. The sticking stopped but the arc became violent and I could not hold a steady arc. Same with 1/8 starting at 100 and going up to around 120 with the added benefit of blowing through my metal. I've not had some an experience that a slight adjustment and cleaning the ground didn't resolve. What else might I check? (other than my sanity) Any and all suggestions will be appreciated.

 

[Chuck1225]

You can dry out your 7014 in any oven at 250 degrees. It is a better choice for welding metal that is not perfectly clean than is 7018 and the weld is easier to clean. With the 7018, you might want to look at holding the rod at a lower angle to the work when you are having sticking problems. This uses the flux to gap the weld, so it is less sticky.