How Hot Does a Welding Gun Get?
As a flame- and spark-based activity, welding gets dangerously hot. But how hot exactly does it get? Well, that depends on how you are producing your weld and the weld you are working on. Our team at Noel’s Inc. in Ecomm & Farmington, NM have broken down how hot you can expect your welding project to reach.
Welding Arc
A process requiring electricity, welding arcs generate heat to melt metals. To do this, arcs routinely reach astronomically hot levels. Ranging between 6,500 and 10,000 degrees fahrenheit, arcs are instrumental in the welding process due to the high temperatures they generate.
Plasma Torch
Plasma welding gives you more control than arc welding because it works in lower current ranges of electricity. Despite the fact that you have more control with a plasma torch, you also have to deal with far hotter temperatures. As we discussed earlier, arc welding routinely reaches 10,000 degrees fahrenheit; plasma torches reach levels five times hotter.
Melting Aluminum
Aluminum is the most abundant metal on the planet, so it is helpful to know about its properties in welding. Though aluminum melts at just 1,221 degrees fahrenheit, it is one of the most difficult metals to weld. This is due to how sensitive it is. When working with aluminum, you will need special welding tools to accommodate its special properties.
Mild Steel
While aluminum is the most common metal on Earth, the most common metal seen in the world of welding is mild steel. Mild steel melts at a temperature of twice that of aluminum, at around 2,500 degrees fahrenheit. Again contrasting aluminum, mild steel is one of the easiest metals to work with due to its simplicity and versatility. Both malleable and durable for maneuvers, mild steel is unlikely to crack and break during your welding project, making it great for not just beginners but all welders.
Noel’s Inc. can help you with all your welding needs, whether you are a novice or an expert - whether you are working on an arc weld or using a plasma torch. Welding is a high-pressure, high-temperature hobby, we are here to make things a breeze by supplying you with the equipment necessary to complete these jobs. Contact us today for more information on how to enhance your welding experience.