Welding Machine and Electrode Testing

Welding Machine and Electrodes

• The X Tools MMA 200 ampere welding machine is used during testing.
• The machine features digital ring control and scratch start.
• The welding machine is suitable for amateur and experienced welders.
• Successful testing was performed on black steel and stainless steel.
• The machine comes with cables and a welding shield mask.
• A purchase link for the welding machine is available.
• The machine has impressive welding capabilities.

Welding Electrodes

• Different types of welding electrodes are tested, focusing on those most common to hobbyists.
• Welding electrodes being tested include: 7014, 8014, 7016, and 6011.
• The 7014, 8014 and 7016 are basic electrodes.
• The 7014 electrode (48 ESAB equivalent) is a standard electrode type.
• The 8014 electrode is similar to 7014 but with a higher PSI in the weld.
• The 7016 electrode is also a basic electrode but with different properties than the others.
• A 6011 cellulose-based electrode from Lincoln Electric, a popular pipe welding electrode in the USA, is used.
• The 6011 electrode produces a unique smell when welding due to its cellulose base.

Welding Machine Settings and Performance

• When voltage is fixed, the electrode struggles to maintain a stable arc unlike other standard electrodes.
• When set at 81 Amps, the welding machine optimally regulates voltage, reaching 67.4 Volts.
• The 48 electrode uses 81 Amperes, and 13.6 Volts.
• The welding machine has adjustable hot start and arc force settings.
• For testing, hot start was adjusted to 10% and arc force to 6%.

Welding Results and Observations

• Good welding penetration was achieved with the different electrodes.
• Slag from the 7016 electrode is glassy and easy to remove.
• 7016 is favored due to its quality.
• 6011 electrode requires voltage regulation to work correctly, otherwise, it extinguishes.
• 6011 created a very easy slag to remove and a deep welding profile.
• The welder adjusted the settings to 70 Amperes and adjusted the hot and arc force.
• The 6011 Cellulose electrode is a deep penetrating rod
• The welding machine displays information about the electrode size based on the amperage.
• The 6011 electrode is very spattery, creating a spray of molten metal around the weld.
• The welding machine is a good value for money.

General Recommendations

• Comment if TIG welding is of interest.
• The 7016 or 8014 electrodes are recommended for easier welding compared to 48 or 7014.
• The 8014 is slightly more expensive but offers better hold and easier welding.
• The 7016 electrode is excellent but more expensive and suitable for experienced hobbyists.
• The 48 7014 is suitable for hobbyists working on general projects due to its cost.
• If the welding machine struggles with 7014 adjust to a 7014
• The last digit of the electrode code indicates the welding position (e.g., 1 for all positions).

This tutorial covers an MMA 200 ampere welding machine, highlighting its digital ring control and suitability for both amateur and experienced welders. Different types of welding electrodes are tested, including 7014, 8014, 7016, and 6011, with a focus on common types available to hobbyists. The tutorial also assesses the welding capabilities of the machine on black steel and stainless steel.