What is arc striking?

What is arc striking? What are the arc striking methods? What should be paid attention to when striking an arc?

The process of igniting and generating a stable arc is called arc striking. There are two arc striking methods: scratching arc striking and direct arc striking.

In the scratching arc striking method, aim the end of the electrode at the arc striking point, and then use the wrist force to gently scratch the electrode on the surface of the weldment like striking a match. The scratching distance is 10-20 mm, and the electrode is lifted 3-3 mm.

In the direct arc striking method, first aim the electrode at the weldment to be welded and gently touch it, and then lift the electrode 2-3 mm at the right time to ignite.

When striking an arc, the electrode should be lifted quickly, otherwise it is easy to stick to the workpiece. If sticking occurs, shake the electrode left and right and pull it apart. If it cannot be connected, loosen the welding clamp, cut off the welding circuit, and wait for the weldment to cool slightly before processing.

The following points should be paid attention to when striking an arc:

(1) After striking an arc, ensure that the arc length does not exceed the diameter of the electrode. Do not use too much force when striking the arc to prevent the arc-strike end coating from cracking or even falling off, which will affect arc striking and welding.

(2) Do not randomly strike on the weldment when striking the arc, especially high-strength steel, low-temperature steel, and stainless steel. This is because the arc scratches the part that is easy to cause hardening or micro-cracks, and stainless steel will reduce corrosion resistance.

(3) When striking the arc, if the welding rod is connected to the weldment and cannot be removed by shaking, the welding clamp should be removed immediately. After the welding rod cools down, it will be easy to remove.