RT250085.1 MMA Welding ProblemsMost problems with MMA welding are the result of notsetting the correct welding parameters for the weld-ing rod being used.All welding rod packets have information on them insymbolic format , giving suitable current range, polar-ity and type of weld (normally called 'position').If you are in doubt about what these symbols mean,ask your welding rod supplier to explain them.Choose an initial current setting towards the middleof the quoted range and if necessary practice on apiece of scrap the same thickness as the job to bewelded.5.2 TIG Welding problemsIf problems with the RT2500s operation while TIG weld-ing are experienced, first refer to the information inparagraph 3.1 in the installation section and para-graph 4.2.2 in the operation section.The common problems with TIG welding are poorstriking, porosity and poor appearance of the weld. Ifyou are experiencing any problems with TIG weldingfollow the check list below, this will cure most prob-lems :-• If the RT2500 is suffering from poor striking, checkthat all power leads are connected properly, checkthat there is sufficient gas flow and that the correctgas is being used, check that the earth clamp ismaking a good connection to the work-piece.• If there is porosity in the weld or the final weld is ofpoor appearance, check that there is sufficient gasflow and that the correct gas is being used, checkthe condition of the TIG torch, particularly the gashose. Make sure that the collet or gas lens in thetorch head is not blocked in anyway. Check all gasconnections are secure and that there are no leaks,use a leak detecting spray on all connections ifnecessary.Any welding problems not covered above must bebrought to the attention of a qualified Welding Engi-neer, if the problem still persists have the RT2500checked by a trained maintenance person.5.3 MaintenanceNote! All Electric shocks are potentially fatal, switch themachine off and unplug from the mains supply beforecarrying out any maintenance work.It is very important that the RT2500 is regularly main-tained. The amount of use and the working environ-ment must be taken into account when scheduling themaintenance periods.Careful use and regular preventative maintenance willprolong the life of the machine and ensure trouble freeoperation.Weekly• Clean the exterior of the machine• Inspect the machines exterior for obvious signs ofdamage.• Check the condition of the welding cable, earthclamp and welding output connectors for damageand any sign of over-heating.• Check the condition of the mains cable an plug.Three monthlyAs per the weekly schedule, plus:-• Remove the side panels from the machine and re-move the build up of dust and debris from inside themachine. Either use compressed air at low pressureor an industrial type vacuum cleaner.• Make a thorough visual inspection of the interior ofthe machine, look particularly for pieces of weldingwire, or stubs of old welding rods that may have gotthrough the cooling air intakes.• Check the condition of the mains input connector,look for loose terminal block screws and make surethe sheath of the mains cable is still clamped se-curely to the chassis. Make sure the earth wire is stillsecurely fastened to the earth stud.• Check the condition of the welding output connec-tors, look for any signs of discoloration. This could bean indication of overheating and can be a cause ofwelding set failure.AnnuallyAs per the three monthly schedule, plus :_Have the machines calibration checked, if necessaryhave the machine re-calibrated by a Newarc trainedtechnician.SECTION 5 — FAULT FINDING AND MAINTAINANCE