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Overheard a welder at the union hall mention that TIG filler rod prep can save 30 minutes a day
He said he files the tips of his rods to a sharp point before starting and it stops the tungsten from getting contaminated on the first tack, has anyone else found that helps with their stainless work?
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janahenderson3d ago
Yeah it helps. I do that with all my stainless rod now, saves a ton of headache on the first tack.
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webb.xena3d ago
Stops the tungsten from getting contaminated on the first tack" is exactly right. I've had jobs where the first tack would just eat the tungsten if the rod wasn't sharp. I usually just hit the tip with a fine file, maybe a 120 grit, just a quick few passes. It also helps the rod feed smoother into the puddle, like it doesn't catch and bounce. Just don't overdo it, a too-sharp point can break off in the puddle if you're heavy handed.
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