Welding has long since evolved from a cumbersome, fuel gas-based process to a more convenient technique powered by electric current. It’s no surprise then that today, welding cables are crucial to the welding process. Whether you are engaging in TIG or MIG welding, welding cables are necessary to supply the requisite power to the welding machine being used in the application.
That said, welding cables are often compared with and mistaken for regular cables. This may be because the two kinds of wires have similar ampacity values (the maximum current that can be carried). However, once you know how a welding cable differs from a regular cable, you can buy welding cable online or in-store in a more informed manner.
A Closer Look at Welding Cables and Regular Cables
Welding cables are not quite the same as regular cables or battery cables. Regular cables are commonly used to establish a connection between the battery and the starter unit. There may also be specialised regular battery cables like automotive wires. Despite the category of regular cables and wires, some characteristic features remain unchanged across the type of wire being considered. For instance, regular wires are often less flexible and designed for specific applications only.
Welding cables, on the other hand, are specifically used in welding applications. Naturally, they have higher heat resistance and more flexibility than their regular counterparts. However, the interesting thing about these wires is that they may be easy to install in batteries in place of regular cables too. That said, it is always advisable to use the right cable for the right application to prevent any kind of accident.
Welding Cables vs. Regular Cables
If your work involves different types of cables, or if you specialise in welding techniques, it is important to be clear about how welding cables differ from regular cables. This will help you make informed decisions at your job.
Check out the key differences between welding cables and regular cables.
● Flexibility:
Welding cables are typically more flexible than regular cables. The wire strands used in welding cables are finer, and the insulation is softer without compromising on its ability to insulate the cable. These factors add to the flexibility of welding cables.
● Versatility:
Welding cables are also built to be extremely versatile. The cables rated RHH or RHW are particularly adaptable and can be used in a wide range of industrial and light welding applications.
● Weather-Resistance:
Welding occurs in extreme temperatures and often in harsh external environments. To sustain such conditions, welding cables are generally built to be more resistant to high and low temperatures and to other weather-related wear and tear. They can generally withstand a wide range of temperatures, from around -50°C to 105°C.
● Voltage Handling:
Lastly, welding cables can also mostly withstand high voltages going up to 600 volts or so. This is because they need to be used to power heavy-duty applications that require more current to power up.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between regular cables and welding cables may appear to be trivial information, but it is crucial to select the right cable accessories for your welding job. The cable can make or break the quality of a weld. So, it is essential to pay attention to the kind of welding cable you need and buy the right type of consumables and accessories.
Once you have established the kind of welding cable you require, you can purchase the cable from a local retailer. Alternatively, if you are looking for a more convenient option, you can purchase your choice of welding cables online.
