Welding Equipment Information
Several integral pieces of equipment must be in place for proper welding to take place. Electrodes and shielding gases are perhaps two of the most important components in any welding system.
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Electrodes
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Electrodes are located at the end of a welding gun. Electricity is drawn through these electrodes, creating an arc of live electricity at the end of the electrode. They are either consumable or non-consumable. Consumable electrodes are deposited onto a workload as welding takes place. Non-consumable electrodes do not melt onto a workload; they merely are a channel for electricity to draw through.
Shielding Gas
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Shielding gases surround the live electric arc that welding creates between electrode and workload. They help keep the arc steady, contribute to smoother welds, and keep the work site free of dust, dirt and other contaminates. Argon gas is one of the most widely used gases in shielding gas applications. Depending on the workload, argon is used by itself, or in combination with oxygen, helium or carbon dioxide.
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Other Information
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To prevent injury, welders should use the proper welding mask while welding is taking place. In the workplace, welding stations are required to be sectioned off with proper curtains to prevent injury to nearby workers. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration outlines proper welding curtain design.
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