glossary

As applied to welding machines, a welding power source which will produce a relatively small change in amperage despite changes in voltage caused by a varying arc length Used mostly for welding with coated electrodes.

An arc welding power source with a volt-ampere output characteristic that produces a small welding current change from a large arc voltage change.

As applied to welding machines, a welding power source which will produce a relatively small change in voltage when the amperage is changed substantially. Used mostly for welding with solid or flux cored electrodes.

An arc welding power source with a volt-ampere output characteristic that produces a large welding current change from a small arc voltage change.

A plasma arc column that is shaped by the constricting orifice in the nozzle of the plasma arc torch or plasma spraying gun.