Using the Orion's Micro Mode

Micro Mode Basics

Micro Welding Mode creates a small welding arc using the stylus in much the same way as PulseArc Mode. The lower energy micro capacitors inside the Orion can be charged to contain from 0.3Ws to 24Ws. However, this doesn't necessarily mean that the full amount of energy will be put into the weld. The other important factor, weld time, determines the actual amount of discharge energy. This can be set between 0.5ms to 6ms. The higher the weld time, the greater the percentage of maximum energy discharged in the weld. Since the Micro Mode discharges so much faster than the PulseArc Mode, it is recommended to keep the weld length at 60% or greater to avoid unattractive weld splashing.

With these two parameters, weld power and weld time, the user can finely tune the type of weld to be made. A general rule is that weld power controls the diameter or size of the resulting weld, and weld time controls the penetration or depth of the resulting weld.

Micro Mode is capable of welding very small pieces. Use Micro Mode anywhere a low-impact weld is desired. Examples might include re-pronging a stone setting, or adding filler to a porous area.

Generally when using Micro Mode, the shielding gas should be at 4 liters per minute or higher. Because the welds are smaller, gas consumption can be kept lower while still maintaining a quality weld.

Either the 0.5mm or 1mm electrodes can be used in Micro Mode. For greater accuracy, such as when using the microscope, it is recommended to use the 0.5mm electrode. Similarly, when welding at powers below 30%, it is recommended to use the 0.5mm electrode.

Welding Tips

• To reduce the discoloration that can appear after a weld, use more shielding gas, use a sharpened electrode, or try shortening the length of exposed electrode.
• If the electrode sticks to the weld, it's probably time for electrode sharpening. Lighter holding pressure and higher power will also aid in avoiding sticks.
• If the weld is too weak or shallow, try using PulseArc Mode.
• Typically, when the electrode is at a 90° angle to the workpiece, the resulting weld is more perfectly symmetrical and attractive.
• If the workpieces are very small, consider purchasing the base plate to eliminate the need for attaching a separate cable.