WELDER OPERATION
DUTY CYCLE
Duty Cycle is the the ratio of the uninterrupted on-load
duration to 10 minutes. The total time period of one
complete on-load and no-load cycle is 10 minutes. For
example, in the case of a 60% duty cycle, load is
applied continuously for 6 minutes followed by a no-
load period of 4 minutes.
STICK WELDING MODE
The Vantage can be used with a broad range of DC
stick electrodes.
The MODE switch provides two stick welding settings
as follows:
CC-STICK MODE
The CC-STICK position of the MODE switch is
designed for horizontal, vertical-up and overhead weld-
ing with all types of electrodes, especially low hydrogen.
The OUTPUT CONTROL knob adjusts the full output
range for stick welding.
The ARC CONTROL knob sets the short circuit (arc-
force) current during stick welding. Increasing the num-
ber from -10 (Soft) to +10 (Crisp) increases the short
circuit current and prevents sticking of the electrode to
the plate while welding. This can also increase spatter.
It is recommended that the ARC CONTROL be set to
the minimum number without electrode sticking. Start
with the knob set at 0.
DOWNHILL PIPE MODE
This slope controlled setting is intended for “out-of-posi-
tion” and “down hill” pipe welding where the operator
would like to control the current level by changing the
arc length. The OUTPUT CONTROL knob adjusts the
full output range for pipe welding.
The ARC CONTROL knob sets the short circuit current
(arc-force) during stick welding to adjust for a soft or a
more forceful digging arc (Crisp). Increasing the number
from -10 (Soft) to +10 (Crisp) increases the short circuit
current which results in a more forceful digging arc.
Typically a forceful digging arc is preferred for root and
hot passes. A softer arc is preferred for fill and cap pass-
es where weld puddle control and deposition (“stacking”
of iron) are key to fast travel speeds. It is recommend-
ed that the ARC CONTROL be set initially at 0.
TOUCH START TIG MODE
The Vantage® 500 can be used in a wide variety of DC
TIG welding applications.
The TOUCH START TIG setting of the MODE switch is
for DC TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding. To initiate a
weld, the OUTPUT CONTROL knob is first set to the
desired current and the tungsten is touched to the work.
During the time the tungsten is touching the work there
is very little voltage or current and, in general, avoids
tungsten contamination. Then, the tungsten is gently lift-
ed off the work in a rocking motion, which establishes
the arc.
To stop the arc, simply lift the TIG torch away from the
work piece. When the arc voltage reaches approxi-
mately 30 volts, the arc will go out and the machine will
automatically reset to the touch start current level. The
tungsten may then be retouched to the work piece to
restrike the arc. The arc may also be started and
stopped with an Amptrol or Arc Start Switch.
The ARC CONTROL is not active in the TIG mode.
In general the ‘Touch Start’ feature avoids tungsten con-
tamination without the use of a Hi-frequency unit. If the
use of a high frequency generator is desired, the K930-
2 TIG Module can be used with the Vantage. The set-
tings are for reference.
The Vantage is equipped with the required R.F. bypass
circuitry for the connection of high frequency generat-
ing equipment.
The Vantage and any high frequency generating equip-
ment must be properly grounded. See the K930-2 TIG
Module operating manuals for complete instructions on
installation, operation, and maintenance.
When using the TIG Module, the OUTPUT control on
the Vantage is used to set the maximum range of the
CURRENT CONTROL on the TIG Module or an Amptrol
if connected to the TIG Module.
OPERATION
B1.8
B1.8
VANTAGE® 500
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