What Are Welding Cables And How To Take Care Of It

Welding cables are used to conduct current from the welding machine to the workpiece and vice versa. Welding cables consist of a series of fine copper wrapped in a scratch-resistant and non-conductive insulator (usually some types of synthetic or natural rubber with various colors). Fine copper gives the welding cables more flexibility compared to other electric conductors and the insulation is created to withstand friction with rough surfaces.

Choosing The Right Size For Welding Cables

As the current level increases (measured in Amperes), the diameter of the welded wire and the resulting cross-sectional area of the copper strands need to be increased. The diameter of the electrode also plays an important influence towards the appropriate welding current to be used. The smaller the electrode diameter, the smaller the ampere used. In turn, if the diameter used is bigger, the current will be bigger as well. You may see the table below to select the right electrode diameter and the amount of current used.

Taking Care Of Welding Cables

It is important to note that aside from choosing the right cable size, it is also just as important to keep the welding cables in good condition. Every bend, leak, wound point, and any other defects on the welding cable may decrease the rate of the current and create hot spots. Furthermore, worn or frayed cables to work clamps, connector lugs or twist locks can also decrease their current-carrying abilities and create hot spots as well. Every part that does not function well should be fixed immediately to operate correctly and to reduce risks of danger. Welding cables from Wilson Cables are more flexible, more abrasive-resistant (resistance to friction) and has a copper diameter true to size.

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