would twin tungsten instead of twin carbon work?

[Scalliwag]

Could you maintain an arc between two tungsten electrodes (3/16" diameter) like the twin carbon process? The little testing I have done resulted in the electrodes burning off much faster than I would like. I was using 3/16" thoriated because that was the only type I could find. I have heard that others have easier striking and last longer.
There will be a 1/16" wire being fed into the arc. So far it has also acted as a starter for the arc as well.
It is a long story as to why I am trying to get this to work but any advice would help. I made some water cooled collets and that helped.
Also it seems as though my best bet will be AC current but I have only ran it from my big DC box as of yet.
I figured before I get back to trying I would post this and see what kind of ideas I can get from you guys.
AC or DC, sharpened or balled electrodes? Etc. Anything you have seen or done like this before?