Articles & Podcast Episodes

A welding arc can be much brighter than the sun. Its brightness can harm your eyes. To protect against this, always wear a full welding mask with a dark shade and UV protection. Avoid staring directly at the welding arc to prevent serious eye damage and ensure your eye safety during the welding process. The … Read more

Most arc welding goggles are not safe for viewing a total solar eclipse. Only those with a shade level of 14 or higher offer proper eye protection. Experts recommend using ISO-certified eclipse glasses or solar filters, which are designed specifically for eclipses, to ensure your safety during the event. The primary risk of using arc … Read more

Arc welding is a welding process that uses an electric arc to generate heat between an electrode and a workpiece. This heat melts the metals, enabling metal fusion. It is crucial for metal joining and includes methods like manual arc welding and gas metal arc welding. Always follow protective measures for safety. Best practices in … Read more

An arc welding written test measures a welder’s knowledge of safety and procedures. It covers techniques such as Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW). Resources like practice tests and Quizlet flashcards help welders study. This knowledge is crucial for certification by the American Welding Society. In the practice questions section, … Read more

During arc welding of zinc coated steel, or galvanized steel, the zinc coating vaporizes at 1600°F (871°C). This temperature is much lower than steel’s melting point of 2800°F (1538°C). Controlling heat input and welding speed is essential to manage zinc vaporization and ensure good welding quality. Best practices for arc welding zinc-coated steel include thorough … Read more

Flux cored arc welding (FCAW), or dual shield welding, is a semi-automatic process. It uses a continuous wire electrode and a constant-voltage power supply. FCAW offers advantages like versatility and efficiency. It is ideal for applications in construction and manufacturing, especially when compared to MAG welding. In FCAW, an electric arc forms between the continuously … Read more

In arc welding and cutting operations, use electrical tape for temporary repairs on minor cable damage. Ensure the cable is not deeply cut to prevent exposing wires. Wrap multiple layers tightly around the damaged section. For permanent solutions, replace the cable. Always prioritize safety by using shielding and noncombustible screens for employee protection. Using electrical … Read more

Arc welding is a process that joins metals using an electric arc. The main types are: Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG), which uses a consumable electrode; Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG), which uses a non-consumable electrode; Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW); and Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW). Each type has unique applications. SMAW, also known as … Read more

The Forney Arc Welding Manual, 6th Revised Edition, provides guidance on Stick (SMAW) and MIG Flux Core welding. It includes setup charts, illustrated instructions, and maintenance tips. Offered by Forney Industries, this manual supports various welder models, promoting efficient and safe operation for users in welding and sheet metal fabrication. Ensuring your copy of the … Read more

Discover free arc welding tutorials for beginners. Learn the basics of Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), also known as stick welding. Access helpful guides and YouTube videos. Master key techniques like using the electrode and flux, controlling the electric arc, and safety tips to effectively start your welding journey. Various platforms offer free tutorials, allowing … Read more