Weld sputters and pops: two things to check first

before you touch power or speed check these two 1 shielding gas coverage sputter is almost always oxygen getting into the puddle verify your argon flow 15 to 20 cfh for most handhelds check the hose for pinholes and confirm the shroud is not clogged with spatter if you re welding outdoors or near a fan add a windscreen 2 base metal prep mill scale oil cutting fluid and galvanizing all cause pops a quick pass with a flap disc and a wipe with acetone eliminates most of these if it s still popping after both are clean then look at power too high vaporizes zinc coating and standoff distance post a short clip of the bead and i can usually spot which one it is