TipMate™ Systems

What to Tell the Welder about Increased Electrode Extension Technology

• Increased Electrode Extension (EE) allows the wire to preheat more due to increased electrical resistance to the flow of welding current.
• Preheated wire melts faster at given amperages.
• At a given dial setting for amperage (wire feed speed), amperage will drop off as EE is increased. The only way to return to the original amperage is to increase the dial setting (wire feed speed).
• TipMate™ Nozzles provide the necessary control and guidance for increased EE to minimize wandering of the wire and wire jamming.

Preparation of the Workspace

• Best results are obtained with constant voltage equipment. However, constant current systems may be used.
• There are some old systems wherein adjustment of wire feed speed is independent of amperage control. These can be difficult to tune in.
• All electrical connections must be tight, especially the ground connection.
• Increased EE welding is more sensitive to poor grounds. Rotary grounds must be properly adjusted and lubricated with conductive grease.

Welding Recommendations

• Best results are obtained with constant voltage equipment. However, constant current systems may be used.
• There are some old systems wherein adjustment of wire feed speed is independent of amperage control. These can be difficult to tune in.
• All electrical connections must be tight, especially the ground connection.

Miscellaneous

• As per ASME IX and B31.3, requalification of WPS's is not required when increased Electrode Extension is used.
• No special wires or fluxes are required to use increased Electrode Extension.
• Each time a coil of wire is changed, the guide tube and wire guides should be blown out so as to prevent a buildup of wire feed roll filings that could cause jamming of contact tips and nozzles.