Why Using The Correct TIG Welding Polarity is Important
TIG welding is a popular method to join two pieces of metal together, but it can also be dangerous if used improperly. The key to a successful and safe TIG weld is setting the correct polarity. If you don’t know what that means or why it’s important, read on. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why using the right polarity for your TIG welding project is so critical – both for safety and structural integrity.
What is welding polarity and what does it do?
Welding polarity is the direction of current flow in a welding circuit. It is typically designated as either ‘straight polarity’ (DC+) or ‘reverse polarity’ (DC-), and it determines the way the electricity flows through the weld joint.
Welding with straight polarity produces a weld that is strong, smooth, and has low levels of spatter. However, it can be susceptible to undercut and excessive heat input. Reverse polarity produces a weld that is less smooth but has more spatters. It also has higher levels of penetration than straight polarity, making it better suited for thicker materials.
The different types of welding polarity and their benefits
Welders use two types of welding polarity, direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC).
DC is the most common type of welding polarity and it produces a steady, solid stream of weld. The negative terminal or electrode (-) is always the work piece or well-meant, while the positive terminal (+) is the welding torch.
AC produces an intermittent current that causes the arc to flicker. This makes it possible to weld in areas that are difficult to reach with a DC welder. The positive (+) electrode is always the welding torch whiles the negative (-) electrode is attached to the work piece.
How to determine the correct welding polarity for your project
There are several ways to determine the proper welding polarity for your project, but the easiest and most common way is to simply look at the electrode. If the electrode is pointed in one direction, then you will need to use a polarity that creates an arc in the same direction. If the electrode is pointed in the opposite direction, then you will need to use a polarity that creates an arc in the opposite direction.
Tips for changing welding polarity when necessary
Welding polarity refers to the direction of electric current flow in a welding circuit. There are two types of welding polarity, Direct Current (DC) and Alternating Current (AC).
In Direct Current (DC) welding, the current flows in a single direction between the electrode and the work piece. This type of welding is used when you want to weld metals that have a low resistance to electricity, such as aluminum and magnesium.
In Alternating Current (AC) welding, the current alternates back and forth between the electrode and work piece. This type of welding is used when you want to weld metals that have a high resistance to electricity, such as steel.
Why using the correct welding polarity is important for creating a quality weld
Welding polarity is important for creating a quality weld because it determines the direction of the electric current. If the welding polarity is incorrect, the weld will not be strong and could potentially break.
Welding polarity is determined by the type of electrode you are using. When you are using a negatively charged electrode, the welding polarity should be reversed (i.e., use a positive electrode). Conversely, when you are using a positively charged electrode, the welding polarity should remain unchanged (i.e., use a negative electrode).
Conclusion
When using TIG welding, it is important to be aware of which polarity you should use. The correct polarity will help ensure that the weld is strong and looks good. However, if you use the wrong polarity, it can cause problems with the weld. By understanding why using the correct polarity is important, you can avoid these problems. Additionally, welding blankets are a great way to protect you from sparks and heat when welding. They can also help improve the quality of your welds by absorbing some of the heat.