Tapering Electrodes and Weld Heads
Various arc tapers offer different arc shapes and features. If you are looking for weld heads for purchase then you might also be in need of Tungsten electrodes. If not, then this could be because you have not learned proper care of your orbital welder. The electrode is one of the most fundamental pieces of the orbital welder, and one important facet of this is the effect various tapers have on arc shapes and features.
Sharper electrodes will offer a smaller lifetime than blunter electrodes. They have less weld penetration, and there is a wider arc shape. Sharper electrodes handle less amperage, so this might be an issue for those demanding a lot of power. There is less arc wander however, so there is a easier rate of control. This helps eliminate mistakes and wasted material. Finally, a sharper electrode can also offer a more consistent arc. Again, this helps to eliminate mistakes made during the welding process.
Blunter electrodes last much farther than sharper electrodes. They have better weld penetration, and there is a narrower arc shape. The blunter electrodes can hold more amperage, so this might drive up energy expenses but could also offer many benefits depending on the project. With the blunter electrodes, there is a higher potential for more arc wander. Because of this, it might be required to redo some welding jobs due to mistakes. Finally, there is a less consistent arc that is made whenever using blunter electrodes. This might result in more welding mistakes as well.
As you can see, there are many rewards and disadvantages to both methods, but it is best to pick the electrode taper that best suits the needs of your project. Once you determine which best suits your needs, you can continue on and locate those weld heads that you were looking for.
