How to Reverse the Polarity on a Buzz Box
A buzz box is a type of small welder often used by amateur and hobbyist welders. The older buzz box units were only manufactured as AC current units. Polarity is only an issue when welding with DC current, so in order to reverse the polarity of the buzz box you have to start with a buzz box capable of running DC current and determine whether the unit is currently running on positive or negative polarity. Polarity simply refers to whether the welding electrode, or torch, is receiving electrons (positive polarity) or emitting electrons (negative polarity). Switching between positive and negative polarity is necessary in order to execute different types of welds.
Instructions
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Examine the face of the unit and determine if the buzz box runs only AC current. If it is DC current capable, it will be prominently labeled. Polarity is only an issue when welding with DC current, so polarity cannot be reversed on buzz box welders that are only AC current capable.
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Identify, on a DC current capable buzz box, whether the welding electrode is set up for positive polarity or negative polarity. If the electrode is plugged in to the port on the face of the unit marked with a plus sign, the welder and the electrode are set to positive polarity. If it is plugged in to the port marked with a minus sign, the electrode and unit are set to negative polarity.
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Reverse the polarity of the unit by unplugging the electrode from one port and plugging it back in to the other port. Simply changing ports is all you need to reverse the polarity of the unit.
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