Articles & Podcast Episodes

Welding electrodes are classified by their functions in electric arc welding. The main types are solid electrodes, which offer stability; gas-arc electrodes, suited for specific tasks; and Metal Inert Gas (MIG) electrodes, which enable quicker welding. Each type has distinct roles and applications in various industries. Consumable electrodes, such as the E6010 and E7018, melt … Read more

Direct energy arc welding is a dynamic additive manufacturing process. It uses an electric arc to deposit material efficiently, ideal for creating large builds. This method employs existing arc-welding robots and power supplies. It combines precision and speed, making it a preferred choice for many industrial applications. DEAW finds application in industries such as aerospace, … Read more

Reverse polarity arc welding uses electrode-positive polarity. This method creates deeper weld penetration. In contrast, electrode-negative polarity results in a quicker melt-off and higher deposition rate. Knowing these differences helps welders select the right settings for their welding currents and improve their project outcomes. When choosing the right polarity for Reverse Polarity Arc Welding, consider … Read more

Gas welding uses a flame from burning a fuel gas, often acetylene, to melt metals. Arc welding, on the other hand, uses an electric arc that forms between a coated electrode and the workpiece. Each process has specific equipment and applications that guide their use in metalwork. Safety considerations differ between the two techniques. Gas … Read more

Soldering joins metals at low temperatures without melting them. Brazing heats metals to below their melting points, using a filler metal for joining. Welding fuses metals by melting them at high temperatures. These methods differ in heating processes, melting points, and specific applications for metal joining. Brazing, on the other hand, takes place at higher … Read more

Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) works well on thick materials but is challenging for thin ones. The low thermal mass of thin metals increases risks like distortion and burn-through. The intense heat of SMAW can cause excessive melting, so welders must carefully control the process to avoid damaging the materials during welding. Furthermore, wind interference … Read more

To safely view a solar eclipse, use eclipse glasses or welding helmets with a shade 14 lens. Standard welding helmets do not offer enough eye protection. Auto darkening helmets react too slowly and are unsafe. Always choose safety equipment that meets UV protection standards during a solar eclipse. To view a solar eclipse safely, use … Read more

Double vision in double lens arc welding happens due to light distortion from lens arrangement. If the metallized surfaces of the lenses are not parallel, light reflects off one lens and creates two images. Choosing the right welding lens shade helps maintain vision clarity and ensures effective eye protection during the welding process. Safety is … Read more

Double-electrode gas metal arc welding (DE-GMAW) uses a second electrode to boost efficiency. This electrode can be consumable or non-consumable. In non-consumable DE-GMAW, the bypass current lowers heat input. In consumable DE-GMAW, it raises the deposition rate, improving welding performance and control. Variants of the double-electrode arc welding process include twin-wire arc welding and initiated … Read more

Welding glasses with shade level 14 protect your eyes during solar viewing. Glasses with lower shades, like 5 or 9, do not provide enough safety. For viewing the sun or solar eclipses, use dedicated solar eclipse glasses or welding helmets with proper filters. This ensures protection from the risk of eye damage during eclipse phases. … Read more