Burn back on a MIG welder is a crucial feature that helps prevent the consumable filler wire from freezing in the weld pool when the welder stops welding. This is achieved by maintaining power and gas shield on the consumable filler wire for a set period of time after it has stopped feeding, thereby burning clear of the weld.
Understanding Burn Back Control
The burn back feature can be either built-in or adjustable, with some equipment offering an external variable control to adjust the time of delay. This allows the user to precisely control the distance the wire extends beyond the contact tip after the trigger is released, preventing the wire from sticking to the workpiece or becoming damaged.
Proper adjustment of the burn back control is essential to prevent wire from sticking to the workpiece, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Welding Machine Speed: The speed of the welding machine can affect the amount of time the wire is exposed to the weld pool, which can lead to wire sticking if not properly controlled.
- Wire and Tip Condition: The size and condition of the wire and contact tips can also contribute to wire sticking, as worn or damaged components can alter the wire’s behavior in the weld pool.
- Torch-to-Metal Distance: The distance between the welding torch and the metal being welded can also impact the wire’s behavior, with too much or too little distance leading to wire sticking.
Adjusting Burn Back Control
Image source: Mig weld example
To adjust the burn back control, the user can typically open the side of the machine and access an easy-to-read gauge or control knob. This allows them to make the necessary adjustments to the burn back time, ensuring the wire extends the optimal distance beyond the contact tip after the trigger is released.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to adjust the burn back control on a MIG welder:
- Locate the Burn Back Control: Consult your welder’s manual to identify the location of the burn back control, which is often located on the side or rear of the machine.
- Access the Control: Carefully open the side or rear panel of the welder to gain access to the burn back control.
- Identify the Adjustment Mechanism: The burn back control may be a knob, dial, or digital display, depending on the welder model. Familiarize yourself with the specific adjustment mechanism.
- Adjust the Burn Back Time: Slowly adjust the burn back control, observing the wire’s behavior as it extends beyond the contact tip. Aim for the optimal distance that prevents the wire from sticking to the workpiece.
- Test and Refine: Perform a test weld and observe the wire’s behavior. If necessary, make further adjustments to the burn back control until you achieve the desired result.
Benefits of Proper Burn Back Control
Proper adjustment of the burn back control on a MIG welder can provide several benefits, including:
- Preventing Wire Sticking: By controlling the distance the wire extends beyond the contact tip, you can effectively prevent the wire from sticking to the workpiece, which can save time and money by reducing the need for wire and contact tip replacements.
- Reducing Setup Time: Minimizing wire sticking can also help reduce the time required to set up the welder between jobs, as there will be fewer instances of wire and contact tip issues.
- Improving Weld Quality: Consistent wire extension beyond the contact tip can contribute to more stable and consistent weld quality, as the wire is less likely to be affected by uncontrolled factors.
- Extending Component Lifespan: Preventing wire sticking can also help extend the lifespan of the welder’s consumable components, such as contact tips and liners, by reducing wear and tear.
Conclusion
Burn back control is a crucial feature on MIG welders that allows users to precisely control the distance the wire extends beyond the contact tip after the trigger is released. Proper adjustment of this setting can help prevent wire from sticking to the workpiece, saving time and money while improving weld quality and component lifespan. By understanding the importance of burn back control and mastering the adjustment process, MIG welders can optimize their equipment’s performance and efficiency.
References
- What is Burn Back on a MIG Welder?
- MIG Welding Burn Back Explained
- Understanding MIG Welding Burnback
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