It is a very important process in production, construction and everyday life. Along with the choice and welding machine It is necessary to pay attention to the electrode holder for. At the moment, there are a huge number of clamps that differ from each other in design, weight, and so on. In addition, you can make a welding holder yourself. In this article we will talk about how to make a holder with your own hands.
The electrode holding device is very important node, although its design is quite simple. The following are some requirements:
- proper dielectric and thermal insulation must be ensured;
- the wire must be fastened securely;
- reliable retention of the rods must be ensured;
- The cinder should be easily replaced with a new rod.
Factory fastener models
Before you consider homemade holder electrodes, you should inquire about factory models. There are several types of them.
Collet
A very convenient type of clamp, it is light and compact. The electrode here is easily replaced with a new one. The collet handle is well protected from electrical and temperature influences. Disadvantages include high cost, limited labor force current You should also not leave a short stub, as this can damage the handle.
It is important to remember that as the length of the electrode decreases, the current passing through it also increases.
Pin
The most common type of restraint devices. Depending on the operating current and diameter, the holder can be different sizes. The clothespin can be used when working with almost any current value. The contact with the rod is good, and with the help of the handle you can easily get rid of the cinder. The disadvantages of clothespins include a larger design and more difficult process replacing the electrode.
Fork (trident)
Currently, holders of this type are not commercially available; they can only be found on secondary markets. The fork differs from previous types in its simple design. The electrode is almost completely gone, the cinders are very short. But, perhaps, these are all the advantages of the trident. The trident does not match, which causes high level its risk of injury. In order to remove the rod from the fork, it is necessary to use additional tools, such as a hammer or pliers.
DIY welding holders. How to make a welding holder?
If desired, you can make a homemade holder for welding. Maybe, homemade models and are inferior to factory ones in quality and reliability, but they can also be used. Such holders are enough cheap analogue expensive factory models. Here we will look at the designs of homemade holders of various types.
Trident
We talked about this type of retainer above when we described factory models of retaining devices. This model is easy to make yourself. The trident consists of three pieces of reinforcement welded together in a certain way. In order to protect yourself from electric shock, you can put a piece of rubber hose on the handle.
Despite the simplicity of the design, it is necessary to use a homemade holder with extreme caution, as there is a risk of injury during operation. Due to the fact that the reinforcement is constantly covered with scale, it must be cleaned in order to obtain a good result. Scale affects the loss of current, thereby impairing contact and making the welding process less efficient.
Metal corner and reinforcement rod
This option is more effective than the trident. Here the contact of the rod with the holder increases, which has a positive effect. But a homemade holder for electrodes of this type has the same disadvantage as a plug - the electrode is difficult to remove.
Fork with spring
Modernized version of the fork. The trident (fork) with a spring must be made of high-quality material, which will improve the quality of the welding process. A homemade holder of this design has a spring-loaded finger instead of one reinforcement rod, which makes it easier to replace the cinder with a whole electrode.
It is rare that a serious engineering and construction process can be completed without welding work. At the same time, welding, whether performed by professional craftsmen or by amateurs, must, of course, be safe with optimal convenience and ease of implementation. A good electrode holder for the welding machine will be the key to comfortable work.
The essence of using this tool is that it secures the working electrode, supplies welding current to it and completely controlled control of the electrode during the welding process. This leads to mandatory requirements that the holder must comply with:
- confident and reliable fixation of electrodes of any diameter and in various positions;
- good electrical contact;
- durability of use;
- comfortable grip in the hand without the use of additional effort by the master.
The evolution of welding work and the attributes necessary for its implementation also affected the holders, which were constantly improved and modified, expanding this category tools various designs.
Classification of welding holders
In general, electrode holders can be divided into specialized and universal, the production of which is regulated by GOST requirements:
- Clamping clothespin holder(spring or lever) has a very simple design and low price - the most popular option among craftsmen.
It can be made in a simple modification, which is characterized by operational compatibility with most types of welding units and the complete absence of non-insulated areas of the current collector, or in an automated modification, providing high quality seam, significant energy saving and automatic ignition of the welding arc.
- Very common among welders of any skill level trident fork.
A holder made in a conventional modification is a rather controversial option for the recommended use, banned in many countries around the world: Too many unprotected live parts pose a serious threat to human health, and the likelihood of radiation injury is very high.
The automated option, from the point of view of professionals, is the safest for human health and life, and also guarantees professional quality work performed and its effectiveness.
- Clamping collet holder, used in welding torches for.
- Screw holder may have modifications: with a straight or curved screw clamp and different thread directions - left or right.
- Non-burning electrode holder allows you to reduce the time of fixing the electrode and almost completely eliminates the occurrence of cinders. The design is designed in such a way that the electrode is not fixed with a clamp, but is welded to the end of a rod with an insulated surface and is completely melted during the welding process, after which the next electrode is taken.
Along with the considered universal designs, there are specialized electrode holders, whose purpose is to weld a certain type of seams or products. These models include holders for welding with multiple electrodes or for welding with a three-phase arc. Basically, such structures have considerable weight and technical complexity of implementation, which classifies three-phase and multi-electrode welding as specific, having significant limitations in application.
As a rule, each master makes his own choice - someone bets on low price and maybe someone uses only a proven tool that guarantees health safety.
How to choose an electrode holder?
Choosing the right electrode holder for a welding machine is a most important task, designed to make the welder’s subsequent work efficient and safe. When choosing, you should pay attention to the following parameters:
- Specifications
An important point in the working functionality should be the compliance of the tool with the current used in the welding unit: if you choose a holder with a lower amperage, the electrode clamp, having become burnt, will fail in a day or two - in addition, using holders with a lower amperage is simply unsafe.
Using the holder “with a reserve”, i.e. with a slightly higher current value than the required one, although it is safe, it is not always convenient during long-term work or inconvenient conditions for carrying it out: a larger amperage contributes to a structural increase in mass and overall dimensions tool.
- dimensions
For comfortable work, the electrode holder must be as compact and lightweight as possible: extra grams will not affect short-term work, but for long-term welding processes that require special attention and accuracy, a bulky and heavy tool will only cause discomfort and unnecessary muscle tension for the master.
If there is a question of choosing from several models with the same performance characteristics, you should give preference to a lighter and smaller electrode holder.
- Often very non-ideal operating conditions of use (too high or low temperatures, dust pollution, humidity, etc.) must be fully compensated highly reliable electrode holder.
The holder body (handle and insulating pads), as a rule, is made of durable plastic with high insulating characteristics. Professionals prefer tools with a solid cast clamp because plate-type jaws are more prone to failure. And the screw holder is unconditionally reliable, the threaded fixation of which facilitates the unambiguous position of the electrode.
- Price category The range of holders offered by stores is very different and can vary from 100 to 15,000 rubles (if we talk about branded flow-through holders of foreign production). It should be understood that cheap models fundamentally cannot differ in reliability, quality of materials used and thoughtful design and, in any case, are not designed for long-term active use in several shifts by professional craftsmen. But such a tool can be quite suitable for an amateur welder to perform some one-time work. On the other hand, dear professional tool It is designed for serious use and significant loads, and it does not make sense for a household craftsman to invest capital in it.
It should be remembered that the use of an electrode holder for a welding machine implies not only its direct use when performing welding work, but also proper care behind him. It is necessary to keep the electrode clamp clean to ensure maximum tight contact of the sponges with the electrode - this will prevent them from burning, and the holder will last for a long time.
Despite the apparent simplicity of the design, the holding device for the electrodes (holders) is a critical component. It must meet certain requirements:
- Reliable dielectric protection of the operator;
- Thermal insulation of the handle;
- High-quality wire fastening for the welding machine;
- Ability to withstand currents measured in hundreds of amperes;
- Strong grip of the electrode;
- Easy replacement of the cinder with a new electrode.
The last two points actually contradict each other, so the design of the electrode holder is always a compromise. Professional welders never stop arguing about the advantages and disadvantages of certain holder designs.
We will look at both factory-made and home-made electrode holders.
Factory made holders
Homemade designs
Trident
This is simply a welding classic. There is hardly an electric welder who has not held in his hands a “fork” welded from three pieces of corrugated fittings. A piece of rubber hose or a handle from a bicycle handlebar was usually used as a dielectric handle. Sometimes they just made do with rag tape.
The option is the simplest to manufacture, however, it is quite inconvenient and dangerous during operation. The most a big problem- removing the cinder. Due to the design features, the electrode was used almost completely - this was always presented as one of the advantages.
Collet (clamping) version
Technical development of the previous version of the holder. Instead of threaded connection used spring clamp. The obvious advantages of the design are the ease of changing the cinder to a new electrode. Again, a compromise option. The more powerful the spring, the more force is applied to replace the electrode.
But at the same time, the reliability of the contact, and therefore the maximum current value, increases. Conversely, operating comfort reduces the current load.
No less important is the second connector, which supplies current to the welding object - ground.
It does not need to provide thermal and electrical protection. But the contact must be extremely reliable. Otherwise, due to resistance, the current strength decreases and welding efficiency decreases. It is best to choose a copper or brass clamp. The cable attachment should be as close as possible to the point of contact with the metal.
If there is sparking at the place where the earth clamp is attached, in addition to current loss, you can get stuck to the workpiece. This will ruin both the clamp and the metal being processed.
The welding business is developing by leaps and bounds: new types of equipment make welding accessible, useful and interesting for beginners and professionals. Let's add one more word - “comfortable” business.
What does it mean to work “comfortably”? This means convenient, pleasant and effective. This comfort is added by various modern components. These, of course, include the electrode holder, whose new and varied forms have appeared on the market in large numbers.
What is he doing? In short, it controls the electrode during welding: it secures it and brings it in welding current. Hence the desirable properties.
Homemade holder.
Functions and technological properties that a welding holder must have:
- provides strong fixation of the electrode with a changing angle of electrode exit;
- gives reliable and complete electrical contact;
- durability;
- capable of quick replacement;
- should be light weight so that the hand does not get tired. The usual weight of the holder is about 350 g. For a current of 500A, the device is more powerful and can weigh up to 750 g;
- Mandatory ergonomics: comfortable position in the hand, requiring no effort.
One of the classic stereotypes is buying a larger and more powerful device with a pipe dream in my head so that it works longer and better. In reality this does not happen. This also applies to the welding holder.
Classification of electrical holders
Generally speaking, these devices are divided into two large groups: specialized and universal, regulated in GOSTs.
Homemade electrode holder.
The most popular types of universal holders are as follows:
- A clamp-type clothespin holder can be presented in two versions: spring and lever. This device, which can be called an electrode clamp, has an extremely simple design and low cost. It is compatible with almost all welding units. Provides excellent characteristics: good arc ignition, high quality seam and, importantly, energy savings.
- The trident fork is perhaps the most common version among professional welders. There are some nuances associated with these electrode holders for manual arc welding. The fact is that in its traditional form it is poorly protected: many parts are energized, which carries a high risk of harm to health. In addition to electrical injury, there is a risk of additional radiation injury. There are, of course, modified automated models that are considered safe and show good technological performance.
- The holder is a clamping type collet used in a narrow direction: only in torches for argon arc welding.
- Screw holder in several versions: the clamp can be straight or curved with different thread directions - both left and right.
- The flameless holder works on a different principle. True to its name, it prevents the occurrence of cinders and reduces the fastening time of the consumable, which is not secured with a clamp, but is welded to the end of the electrode so that it will eventually melt during welding. After this, the next consumable is taken.
Dimensions
Electrode holder designed by Anikin.
What is behind the concept of ergonomics? This is compactness and suitable dimensions for the specific hand of the master, light weight. If you have a line of welding holders with the same technical characteristics, choose the one that is lighter and smaller in size.
If you are traveling to different points work, purchase a second spare welding holder.
Degree of reliability
The reliability of the devices is tested under non-standard operating conditions. Holders for welding must work reliably and without loss of their qualities at critical temperatures, high humidity, dust pollution, etc. The plastic of the handle should be durable with good insulation.
It is better if the clamp is cast and massive. Screw electrode holders with rigid threaded fixation are very reliable. They are the most durable in operation and, in addition, make it possible to change the angle of the cathode end.
Price
The range of prices is impressive: from one hundred rubles to fifteen thousand. Of course, the cheapest models, by definition, cannot be considered safe or reliable. If you are not going to buy disposable equipment, you need to pay attention to the average price categories of models.
Expensive options are designed for large-scale professional work; these are also unlikely to suit you. If you decide to purchase an expensive model, analyze its characteristics most carefully. Clamps for professional work cannot cost less than three thousand rubles.
DIY power holder
Varieties of homemade holders.
Trident
Most often, craftsmen make a homemade holder for electrodes in the form of the well-known trident. In more detail, they make the simplest version of the trident, which is difficult to find on sale due to health hazards.
Types of holders for welding.
With all this, the trident can be made quite safe using the following algorithm of actions:
- The base of the do-it-yourself holder is reinforcement or a metal rod made of steel after bending. The diameter of the rod must be at least 8 mm.
- Two parts of the tube are welded to the trident: one part fixes the cable insulation, the second part crimps the cable without insulation.
- The insulator can be a piece of reinforced hose. Careful installation is the most important thing; the safety of the device will depend on this. The fasteners of the insulator must not be allowed to loosen; for this, you can use a special anaerobic thread locker Done Deal.
Screw model
How to create a screw model of a holder:
- A copper tube can be used to make an excellent screw-type holder. Scraps of copper tubing can be found in abundance at air conditioner installers. Typically this is a pipe with an outer diameter of 19 mm.
- The handle can be made from metal-plastic pipe with an outer diameter of 26 mm. The most the best option there will be a rubber hose. The handle must be pulled copper tube so that it completely covers it.
- The handle should be wrapped in a piece of jacket or glove so that it does not slip in your hands.
- The final step will be gluing a bolt size M12 with through hole in the cover from plastic bottle. Your homemade electrode holder is ready.
Electrode holders for both manual arc welding and argon welding are an excellent help for craftsmen for ease of work and improving the quality of products. These devices can be purchased, or you can make them yourself. The main criteria in all cases are safety, stability and reliability.
During renovation or construction welding work always in demand. The main component is the electrode holder for the welding machine. Regardless of who will perform this work, craftsmen or amateurs, all safety requirements and regulations must be observed with optimal convenience and simplicity. The key to comfortable work can be a high-quality trident electrode holder for a welding machine.
Classification of electrode holders
The main task of this tool is to secure the electrode, supply the operating current and provide full control during the welding process. From this it follows mandatory requirements, which apply to such equipment:
The development of welding equipment and the required equipment also influenced the holders, which were also modernized and developed, expanding the range of electrode holders presented on the market.
Mainly welding machine holders can be divided into specialized and universal, the production of which is regulated by GOST requirements:
Along with the above options, there are also specialized holders that are intended to create certain types of seams and products. Such models include holders for several electrodes simultaneously or for working under the voltage of a three-phase arc. The main difference is the large weight and complex design, which classifies such models as specialized and not widely used. Each master individually makes the choice of the necessary equipment, based on personal needs and working conditions.
Key nuances for making the right choice
Choice correct holder- a very responsible occupation, which determines how safe and comfortable the welder’s work will be. When choosing, you need to pay attention to the following parameters:
Specifications
Very important point functionality should be tool compliance welding power of the machine. When choosing a holder with a lower operating current, it may fail with further destruction. In the opposite situation, when choosing a holder with a reserve, difficulties in work may arise, unnecessary exercise stress and inconvenience at work. Therefore, it is imperative to choose a holder that matches the power characteristics of the welding machine and the range of electrodes that will be used to weld parts.
Dimensions
For comfortable work, the tool should be as wide as possible compact and lightweight. Excess weight and the safety margin will not in any way affect short-term welding work, and when long work it can cause severe discomfort and muscle strain with a subsequent decrease in the quality of the weld. The aggressive operating environment of the tool must be compensated by a calculated safety margin to prevent premature failure. The body, handle and insulating elements are usually made of plastic with a high degree of insulation.
Professional craftsmen recommend choosing a tool with a massive cast clamp, which, unlike type-set plate clothespins, is not subject to heavy wear. The screw type is characterized by maximum reliability, in which the electrode is fixed using a clamping screw. By securing it in one position, reliable contact is ensured.
Price policy
The choice of different holders on the market is very large. Prices can vary from 100 to 10 thousand rubles. It should be taken into account that cheap models may not be structurally different from expensive branded ones. The price can only be justified by the use of the most quality materials with proper fitting and installation of parts. But even so expensive model not designed for long term active use in several work shifts by foremen.
Cheap and simple models will justify themselves in everyday life for one-time work by novice craftsmen who do not have serious requirements for the tool and are not ready to invest large amounts into it.
Additional tips include the recommendation to purchase a spare holder, which can help out in case of unexpected failure of the main tool. Do not forget that the holder not only implies it correct application during work, but also appropriate care. The tool must be lubricated with moving elements, not subjected to excessive exposure to aggressive environments, properly stored and transported, and the contacting surfaces must be cleaned to prevent them from burning due to poor contact. Thanks to this, the holder is sure to last a long time.
DIY making
You don’t have to look for the tool that best suits your requirements in a store. To learn how to make a welding holder with your own hands, you need to study the required information, have the material and the tool.
The trident is considered a classic in welding production. There is no such master who would never use it. It consists of three pieces of reinforcement arranged in a triangular pattern. The role of an insulating element is performed by a piece of rubber hose. Sometimes rag tape was used.
The main features can be identified simple design, but with low safety and comfort during operation. To remove the electrode cinder you will need additional tool. When working with such holders, the electrode is almost completely used. But due to the poor-quality surface of the reinforcement, on which oxides form, the contact for the flow of operating current is very poor. To create normal contact, it is necessary to periodically process the reinforcement with a file.
The electrode collet clamp can be made from any available material, but the process will require time and effort. The finished product is quite reliable and easy to use. To make such a holder for a welding machine with your own hands, you will need metal plate and a screw clamp where the electrode will be inserted and clamped.
