spot welder help

[datsun280zman]

I`ve got a spot welder I`m trying to use for thin stainless sheet. (.020") Problem is, it`s way too powerful and there`s no adjustment. I`ve been looking at some way of toning down the power and was wondering if I can use a variable speed control device for controlling the input voltage. The welder is a 110v AC. Would this work?
The owners manual that came with it stated that for that gauge of steel the switch should have to be depressed for 2-4 seconds. I can`t hold the switch for more than 1/4 sec without blowing holes through both pieces!
Any help appreciated.

 

[HgTX]

This forum is more for engineering than how-to. You'll probably get better answers at the AWS forum:

http://www.aws.org/cgi-bin/mwf/forum_show.pl

Lots of welders hang out there.

Hg


Eng-Tips policies: faq731-376

 

[Compositepro]

Do not use an electronic speed controller. A variable transformer (Variac) will work.

 

[berkshire]

datsun280zman's
This machine sounds like a hand held spot welder with a manual momentary contact switch.
Blowing holes in the part indicates too small an electrode diameter and not enough contact pressure.
If is is,when welding, ensure that the toggles are locked down as firmly as you can get them ( maximum contact pressure.)
Before welding, file the tips to obtain a 5/32" ( 4mm) tip size.
try about 1/2 second duration to start on a test piece, break the joint and examine the inside of the weld, it should be about 1/8" (3.25mm) diameter. If it is smaller, increase the duration, If it has blow holes in the center or you are getting flash away, reduce the duration. If you need more precise control, wire an electronic timer in parallel with the push button and use that instead,
B.E.