Arc Processes

An electric arc supplies the energy needed for the arc processes MIG, MAG, TIG, and Plasma welding and cutting.
The frame and basic body components of a car, the joints in heavy steel constructions and in transportation systems are often joined using high productivity MIG/MAG welding. TIG welding, in contrast, is mainly used for material combinations and welding of thin components.

For joint preparations, plasma cutting is often used for a wide range of materials and material thickness, including low and high-alloyed steels and non-ferrous metals. Plasma welding is the preferred welding method when a high energy density is required for instance for thick sections, but it can be used for thinner materials as well. Plasma welding is based on a principle that is similar to TIG, but with a higher energy density, due to a focused arc.

In all arc processes, the electrode, the molten pool and the heat-affected metal parts must be protected from reaction with the ambient air. The shielding gas is added via the welding nozzle, protecting the electrode and the molten pool. Protection of the heat-affected metal parts and the root side requires additional protection devices. But the sources of contamination are not related to the ambient air alone - the equipment itself should also be considered.

Arc processes generate UV radiation. This can be dangerous if the person using the equipment does not have sufficient knowledge of the equipment and the installation.