LC-518D stick welding amperage

**ROKLIMO** · 04-24-2010, 11:53 PM

Just got my new machine and noticed that when the basic current knob is turned fully clockwise, the display read 98 amps. That is significantly below the rated amperage. Is this correct?

**ROKLIMO** · 04-25-2010, 02:20 AM

Well, I just attempted to weld with 1/8" 7018, DCEP, and heard a very loud pop. The machine shut down. Opened it up, and it smells like something fried. the bottom of the circuit board immediately below the large heat sinks appears burnt...

Time to try out that customer service...

**Gadget** · 04-25-2010, 04:46 AM

You will be pleased with the customer service Roklimo. They take customer satisfaction very seriously at Longevity.
Dan

**KHK** · 04-25-2010, 06:51 AM

Call Jessie at Longevity he will take care of you ASAP.

**Don Cook** · 05-01-2010, 03:04 PM

I know nothing about the machine you are using, but I was taught many years ago, to change the rod diameter to decimal. that is the proper amperage to use..I/e 1/4 inch rod=250 amps..1/8 inch=125 amps. if that is true, you have used to large a rod for the amperage you need and may have boint the thing up...I am sure you can sit the amperage higher that 98 amps for 1/8 rod...just a thought...

**ROKLIMO** · 05-01-2010, 11:17 PM

This machine is rated at 160 Amps. New one will be here tomorrow.

**Don Cook** · 05-02-2010, 12:35 AM

As I said convert your rod size to decimal equilavant, if you are using too high an amperage, the rod will get so hot it glows,,,if too low, the rod keeps sticking and you may burn up your welder...I use 7018 a lot and use 1/8 inch rod...125 works fine for me. The only problem with 7018, it gets a "scab" on the rod if you stop and the remedy for that is to just bang it on the floor or some none electrafied metal...Good luck

**Freddytk421** · 05-03-2010, 02:52 PM

The amps also depend on the type of rod. 1/8 inch 6010 rod is 90 amps and 1/8 inch 7018 is 120 amps. you should also adjust the amps for uphill/downhill etc.

**ROKLIMO** · 05-03-2010, 11:49 PM

Originally Posted by Freddytk421

The amps also depend on the type of rod. 1/8 inch 6010 rod is 90 amps and 1/8 inch 7018 is 120 amps. you should also adjust the amps for uphill/downhill etc.

I do understand the proper settings for different rods and situations. My initial post was that with the adjustment at full clockwise, the display only read 98, while the machine rating is 160 amps. Either the display was wrong, or the machine was seriously under performing. The later appears true.

New one gets here today. I'll let you know how it goes.