HF spot welder question

[knall]

I just got the 115 version and am using ak builder lower tong.

Seems like the "point" on the upper tong is digging (melting) into the metal. I tried losening the "grip" to the point it wont even weld...... has anybody FLATTENED the point on the upper tong to avoid this??

I notice the ak builder tong is flatter, and seems to produce a nice weld finish ON ITS SIDE....... but the factory TOP tong....... is melting the scrap I am testing on. ( old pieces of factory receiver)

[KernelKrink]

Filing the tip to a larger diameter works fine. You need a good squeeze on the tongs to ensure a good weld.

[allesennogwat]

Spot welder tip diameter standards in Europe are 4.0 mm for 1.5 mm and thinner thicknesses and 6.0 mm for thicknesses over 1.5 mm. I think some AK's have 5.0 mm spot welds. They are at least 4.0 mm. Use some test pieces and see how they compare to factory European AK spot welds.

[bluak47]

knall, curtis sells a replacement tip for the top tong as well ... and yes it is much flatter.

file away ...

[bluak47]

Originally Posted by KernelKrink

Filing the tip to a larger diameter works fine. You need a good squeeze on the tongs to ensure a good weld.

what do they say? "A good firm handshake grip"

then watch the size of the weld discoloration ... 1/2" to 5/8",
about 2.5 - 3.0 seconds with my 115v.

[knall]

So why are the factory tips so pointy? seems like they would just melt through anything>? Or is it BECAUSE I have one flat and one pointy??

I am gonna file it THANKS!!

[allesennogwat]

The pointy ones are the original HF size for spot welding thin mild steel. They may also be made to grind down to size. AK-Builder sells the right size tips for AK's.