Ignition Voltage

Ignition Voltage is the minimum voltage required to break through the medium (such as air, shielding gas, etc.) and form a conductive path during welding or discharge. The following is a detailed analysis of the arc voltage:

1. Definition and function
Definition: The arc voltage is the instantaneous high voltage required to generate the initial arc between the electrode and the workpiece in processes such as arc welding or plasma cutting.
Function: Overcome the dielectric insulation, establish a conductive path, and provide conditions for subsequent stable arc.
2. Influencing factors
Dielectric type: Different media such as air, argon, CO₂ have different breakdown voltages (such as air requires about 3000–5000 V, and argon is lower).
Electrode spacing: The larger the spacing, the higher the required arc voltage.
Electrode material and shape: Tungsten electrode, carbon electrode and other materials and tip shape affect the concentration of the electric field.
Environmental conditions: Humidity, temperature, air pressure, etc. will change the dielectric insulation properties.
3. Common application scenarios
Arc welding: manual arc welding (SMAW), TIG welding (high-frequency arc ignition of about 2000–5000 V).
Plasma cutting: requires high-frequency and high-voltage arc ignition (usually 15–20 kV).
Fluorescent lamps/neon lamps: start by breaking down inert gas with high voltage.
4. Technical implementation methods
High-frequency and high-voltage arc ignition: generate high-frequency and high-voltage pulses through an oscillating circuit (commonly used for TIG welding).
Contact arc ignition: rapid separation after short-circuit contact (manual stick welding).
Pulse arc ignition: superimpose high-voltage pulses on DC power supply (applicable to precision welding).
5. Safety precautions
Insulation protection: high voltage at the moment of arc ignition may cause electric shock risks to operators or equipment.
Electromagnetic interference: high-frequency arc ignition may interfere with surrounding electronic equipment and requires shielding measures.
Additional notes
The arc ignition voltage is usually much higher than the welding maintenance voltage (such as the TIG welding maintenance voltage is only 10–20 V).
Modern inverter power supplies can optimize the arc ignition process and reduce voltage shocks through intelligent control.
If you need more specific welding arc starting parameters or principle details, please contact us to explain your needs!