Magnets and welding

[Dave Murray]

Just curious, when using magnets to hold something in place, my welder kinda spatters when tacking the pieces in place. When I remove the magnets it welds fine . Anyone else have this problem? 

[swedefiddle]

Good Morning, Dave

Try connecting your ground to the piece of Metal that you are striking the Arc, on. The magnet is a poor conductor.

Welcome from the Left Coast

Neil

[Dave Murray]

Thanks, makes sense, I'll give it a try. 

[arkie]

The effect you are seeing is called "arc blow".  It occurs when welding certain materials that may have magnetism.  This could be things that have been around a strong electrical or magnetic field, oil field tubular goods (casing, tubing, sucker rods, etc.), etc.  Google "arc blow".  Arc blow is usually seen when welding magnetized metal with DC.  AC welding is not affected by residual magnetism.  The magnets you are using will temporarily magnetize the metal you are welding, hence the arc blow.  Try putting the magnets further away from the weld pool.  If welding something like tubular goods, you can spirally wrap the work lead (ground on DC) around the material.  Here is a good explanation of arc blow:

https://www.lincolnelectric.com.cn/en/support/educational-training/welding-class/common-welding-problem/how-to-prevent-arc-blow#:~:text=Possible corrective measures include the following%3A 1 If,a reduction in arc speed More items...

[Frosty]

Good read arkie, I haven't read any of that stuff since the 70s and it wasn't so detailed then. 

Frosty The Lucky.

[Irondragon Forge ClayWorks]

For just a small amount of spattering, anti-spatter spray helps keep it down to a dull roar.

[Dave Murray]

Thanks,I always learn so much when I ask the right people. Very thankful for this website.