What is a Pilot Arc in Welding?

The pilot arc is a low current arc between the electrode and the constricting nozzle of the plasma arc torch. This ionizes the gas and facilitates the start of the welding/cutting arc.

The pilot arc may be established in several ways, including:

By using a high frequency (HF) generator to create an ionized path between the electrode and the workpiece.
By connecting the electrode to a positive voltage with respect to the workpiece. This causes electrons to flow from the electrode to the workpiece, ionizing the gas along the way.
By using a shielded-metal arc welding (SMAW) electrode with a copper coating. The copper coating helps to conduct the current and ionize the gas.

Once the pilot arc is established, it can be used to ignite the welding/cutting arc. The welding/cutting arc is then maintained by the transfer of electrons between the electrode and the workpiece.

The advantages of using a pilot arc include:

reduced electrode wear;
improved weld quality; and
increased productivity.

What is a pilot arc function on a plasma cutter?

The pilot arc function on a plasma cutter is used to ionize the gas and create a path between the electrode and the workpiece. This facilitates the start of the welding/cutting arc. The advantages of using a pilot arc include reduced electrode wear, improved weld quality, and increased productivity.

What is the pilot arc Quizlet?

The pilot arc Quizlet is a low current arc between the electrode and the constricting nozzle of the plasma arc torch.

What are the disadvantages of using a pilot arc?

There are several disadvantages of using a pilot arc, including:

the possibility of arcing to nearby objects;
the need for special electrodes; and
the possibility of damaging sensitive equipment.

Can you drag cut with a pilot arc plasma cutter?

Yes, you can drag cut with a pilot arc plasma cutter.

How do you add a pilot arc to a plasma cutter?

There are several ways to add a pilot arc to a plasma cutter, including using a high frequency (HF)generator to create an ionized path between the electrode and the workpiece, connecting the electrode to a positive voltage with respect to the workpiece, or using a shielded-metal arc welding (SMAW) electrode with a copper coating.