You don’t have to use an all-mechanical clamp to create a grounding path when welding. There are other solutions available, such as magnetic welding grounds. They perform the same task as their all-mechanical counterparts, but magnetic welding grounds feature a magnetic base. Here’s everything you need to know about magnetic welding grounds and how they work.
What Are Magnetic Welding Grounds?
Magnetic welding grounds are magnets used to create a grounding path for welding projects. They complete the electrical circuit between the welding torch and the workpiece. Magnetic welding grounds leverage a magnetic field to create a grounding path rather than an all-mechanical clamp, allowing for quick installation and removal.
The Importance of a Grounding Path When Welding
Arc welding requires a grounding path for safety and heat distribution. In arc welding, an electric arc is used to melt two or more objects so that they can be fused together. Some forms of arc welding use AC power, whereas others use DC power. Arc welding can also use a consumable electrode or a non-consumable electrode. Regardless, all forms of arc welding use an electric arc, which is why a grounding path is necessary.
A grounding path protects the operator from injury. It ensures that fault currents travel through the ground path rather than the operator. At the same time, a grounding path ensures a stable current so that heat is properly distributed.
How Magnetic Welding Grounds Work
Magnetic welding grounds work by leveraging a magnetic base to attach to ferrous surfaces. As previously mentioned, they are used to create a grounding path for welding projects.
To use a magnetic welding ground, you’ll need to connect the ground cable to the stud. The stud is made of a highly conductive material, such as copper or brass. Therefore, electricity can travel from the ground cable through the stud.
There are also on/off magnetic welding grounds. They feature a button that, when pressed, attaches or detaches them from the welding surface. The button acts as a switch, activating the internal magnet. When you are finished welding, you can press the button to deactivate the internal magnet so that it releases from the welding surface.
What Is Holding Power?
When shopping for magnetic welding grounds, you should consider their holding power. Holding power is a measurement of a magnetic welding ground’s holding strength. Most magnetic welding grounds have a holding power of about 35 pounds. On/off magnetic welding grounds, however, are available with a holding power of 50 to 100 pounds.