Thanks for the replies guys. I tried a few things and the extended stick out seems to be the culprit. I used the FUPA with a normal stick out and it was fine. three beads, no flash. Then I extended the electrode about 1/2 in out and the helmet failed me. So for reference, cheap helmets and the FUPA ...

Thanks for the insight. When I get home tonight I’ll be trying it with a shorter stick out and then moving my head as you said. I assumed the poor quality helmet was at least a contributing factor. Thanks again.

My machine is the Everlast Powertig 200. I’m using the ceramic version of the cup. Should have mentioned that before. I’ve not read or heard a bad thing about the cups, and I’m still going to use them when I get an understanding of what is happening. I like to study and understand the “inner working...

I'm hoping someone can shed some light on my situation. On my most recent project I used my new FUPA 12 and almost every time I lit up I got flashed. I re-cleaned, etc, but it happened again. I then switched my cup back to a #8 gas lens and welded out a few joints without issue. A little later I swi...