Welding Terms:
Part One

Here's Welding Terms Part One: (A - B)

Let's get started:
"A":

Abrasive metals: The steels and alloys that have high carbon content, that are made to with-stand heavy wear duties.

AC welding: The welding arc is produced as alternating current just like the AC power from your regular household power outlets. A large transformer inside your welder steps up the power for the welding.

Acetylene: The flammable gas used within your acetylene torch. Mixed with oxygen, you can reach about 5000-6000 degrees F. It can be explosive, always be careful, plus secure your tanks!

Alloy steel: Steel that has special additives that make it stronger, flexible, ductile, wear resistant, etc. Some alloys need special welding rod or wire. Ask your local welding supply store.

Aluminum: a strong but light-weight non-ferrous metal. Can be joined via aluminum rod/wire or brazing. (or soldering).

Amperes:: The amount of electrical current. The higher you set the "amps" on your welder the more welding power you have.

Arc blow: The arc tends to wander around instead of a steady direction. It's a magnetic thing, & the DC welder can produce more of it than AC welders. It's not usually a big issue. Use lower amps, a shorter arc, weld in a different place, or even go to AC welding.

Arc welding: Any welding process that uses an arc to produce the heat & provide a transfer of molten metal. Stick welding, MIG, TIG, etc. The process started in the late 1800's.

"B":

Backfire: When the flame backs up into the cutting or brazing torch & creates a "pop" sound.

Back-step welding: Using short welds in the opposite direction as the main direction you are going. (Versus a continuous weld). Helps prevent warping and excessive stress.

Bead of weld: The actual ripple shaped length of metal produced by welding.

Bevel: An angled surface of material to be welded, that helps provide access for a complete weld.

Buildup: Adding welding passes to gain a desired size, or for hard-surfacing. (example: build-up a worn shaft then have it "lathe-turned" back to it's original size).
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Burn-through: Creating a hole through the root area or thin area, usually caused by an excess "heat" setting, arc length, or staying in one place too long.

Butt weld: A weld placed on a joint of materials where they are set edge to edge.

Welding Terms, Continued:

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