Articles & Podcast Episodes

The common diameters for arc welding electrodes are 3/32”, 1/8”, and 5/32”. These stick rod sizes are commonly used in welding projects. The right diameter depends on the thickness of the material and the type of joint. Knowing these sizes helps achieve better results in welding applications. When selecting an electrode diameter, consider the thickness … Read more

Arc welding is a process that uses a welding power supply to create an electric arc between an electrode and base material. This arc produces intense heat for fusion. Important types include Manual Metal Arc Welding and Gas Metal Arc Welding. These methods effectively join metals using different techniques and allow for various joint types … Read more

Discover 6 surprising facts about arc welding: 1) It was invented in the 1800s. 2) Electric arcs can reach 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit. 3) It played a key role in World War I. 4) Welding machines require cooling periods. 5) There are many types of arc welding. 6) It is a cost-effective choice for projects. Third, … Read more

Arc welding is a process that joins metals using heat from an electric arc. The most common type is Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW). In SMAW, a flux-covered electrode acts as both filler metal and heat source. Knowing the fundamentals of arc welding helps in choosing the right electrodes and enhances the quality of welding … Read more

A shade number indicates how much light radiation a filter lens allows. A higher shade number means a darker lens that limits light transmission. This reduces glare and protects your eyes during arc welding. Proper eye protection is essential to prevent damage from intense welding arcs. Always choose the right shade for safety. The American … Read more

Globular transfer in arc welding is a process where weld metal moves across the arc in large droplets. These droplets are bigger than the electrode diameter. This method is mainly used for welding carbon steel. It usually uses pure CO2 as the shielding gas to improve the quality and stability of the welding process. To … Read more

Arc welding gloves are often made from goatskin, elk skin, or split cowhide for flexibility and heat resistance. For TIG applications, gloves may use thin and pliable materials to enhance dexterity. Stick welding gloves typically incorporate thicker leathers for better protection. Kevlar thread is commonly used for durability, along with added insulation for safety. Some … Read more

Excessive spatter in arc welding happens when the electrode is too far from the workpiece. This creates a wider arc and poor penetration. To reduce spatter, position the electrode closer to the workpiece. This change improves weld quality and strength by enhancing penetration and minimizing spatter. Another strategy is to maintain proper travel speed. A … Read more

Welding fume hazards present acute and chronic health risks. The main threat is occupational lung disease, including lung cancer. Fumes can irritate the eyes and skin. In confined spaces, asphyxiation risk increases. Implementing proper safety measures is crucial to reduce these health hazards. To mitigate these risks, essential safety measures must be implemented. Welders should … Read more

“Arc eye causes symptoms such as pain, tearing, redness, a gritty sensation, and light sensitivity (photophobia). Pain may vary from mild to severe. Protect your eyes during arc welding to prevent these hazards. Awareness of symptoms helps in timely treatment and ensures eye safety while welding.” Welders should wear specialized safety goggles or helmets equipped … Read more