Articles & Podcast Episodes

Arc blow happens when magnetic forces from the welding current disrupt the electrical arc. This disruption can cause excessive spatter, incomplete fusion, porosity, and lower quality in the weld bead. Recognizing arc blow is essential for enhancing welding results and using proper mitigation techniques to address the issue. Preventing arc blow requires attention to these … Read more

Potential hazards related to arc welding include radiation, toxic fumes, and harmful gases. Workers face risks like burns, eye damage, electrical shock, and cuts. Implementing safety precautions helps reduce fire and explosion risks. Using proper protective equipment is crucial to minimize health effects, including vision damage from UV radiation. Another concern is the presence of … Read more

The welding arc can reach temperatures from 6,000°F to 10,000°F (3,315°C to 5,537°C). This high heat intensity is crucial for melting metals in the welding process. Knowing the temperature range helps users optimize equipment and implement safety measures in metalworking. Additionally, the heat of the welding arc generates a bright and dazzling light, which can … Read more

Twin Carbon Arc Welding (TCAW) uses two carbon electrodes to form an arc for welding or brazing. This process effectively repairs cast iron while ensuring a smooth, steady arc with limited spatter. Though uncommon, TCAW integrates well with modern welding machines, showcasing its value and history in welding techniques. Additionally, this method produces less harmful … Read more

To extinguish a welding arc, you can use three methods. First, change the work angle to disrupt the arc. Second, apply direct current (DC) to create a magnetic field that stabilizes the arc. Lastly, raise the electrode above the workpiece to safely end the arc. Each method effectively terminates the welding arc. Safety tips play … Read more

Shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) is a manual welding technique that uses a consumable electrode. As the electrode melts, its protective cover also melts, safeguarding the weld area from oxygen and atmospheric gases. This method is well-known for its simplicity and effectiveness in joining metals. SMAW uses a coating on the electrode to produce shielding … Read more

Electric arc welding techniques use a power supply to create an electric arc between an electrode and base material. This arc generates intense heat, melting the base metal and the electrode core. The flux coating on the electrode provides a shielding environment to protect the weld from contamination, ensuring a strong bond. There are several … Read more

Arc welding and oxy-acetylene welding differ mainly in how they generate heat. Arc welding uses an electric arc, reaching temperatures up to 10,000°F, which effectively melts steel. In contrast, oxy-acetylene welding generates lower heat. Knowing these differences helps in choosing the best welding technique for a specific project. There are notable differences in both methods. … Read more

For Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), choose a lens shade based on the amperage. Use shade #7 for under 60 amps. Use shade #8 at 70 amps, shade #9 at 90 amps, and shade #11 for over 300 amps. Follow OSHA guidelines. Always prioritize safety and protect your eyes during arc welding. For example, if … Read more

Gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), or tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding, is a precise welding process. It uses an electric arc between a non-consumable tungsten electrode and the base metal. This method provides high-quality welds and excellent heat control, making it ideal for many applications. Its advantages include precision and versatility. Second, GTAW is versatile. … Read more