Re: Welder leads

Posted by RAB on July 11, 2007 at 14:51:16 from (195.93.21.42):

In Reply to: Welder leads posted by MN Bob on July 11, 2007 at 14:11:58:

Are we talking welding leads or the supply leads? Either way, if you double the cross sectional area you can double the length with the same power loss. So if you double the diameter of the conductor you can go four times the current with the same power loss. When you can't lift the electrode holder you will wonder whether it was all worth it!
Now, don't you turn up the welder if the power is down? If you just double the length of your present leads and double the amount of heat lost in the leads it will be dissipated over twice the length, so should not get any hotter. Remember power loss is I*I*R, so is proportional to the resistance (R) where I is the current you are using for welding. Soooo, as long as your welding leads do not overheat at full current, they will not overheat if longer - just your maximum current will be less. Therefore not a problem. Just don't coil up the leads when you don't need the extra reach! Simple really but remember as temperature rises so does the resistance (in most materials), so if used for extended periods continuously, some leads are barely big enough for the job in the first place. You could also consider changing conductor material in your leads if appropriate.
RAB

Replies:

Add a Reply Name: E-Mail: Subject: Comments: Optional Link URL: Link Title: Optional Image URL: Email Notification: If you check this box, email will be sent to you whenever someone replies to this message. Your email address must be entered above to receive notification. This notification will be cancelled automatically after 2 weeks.

TRACTOR PARTS	TRACTOR MANUALS

We sell tractor parts!  We have the parts you need to repair your tractor - the right parts. Our low prices and years of research make us your best choice when you need parts. Shop Online Today. [ About Us ]