» Mass clamp

In the list of basic devices necessary for the implementation of manual electro arc welding, includes the following items: electrode holder; welding cable to the holder; return cable; ground terminal (ground terminal).

Quite often, these components are not of high quality and require immediate replacement. There are times when a contractor will need a replacement after a short operation.

Important! If the clamp of the welding mass is defective, this negatively affects the work process, its productivity, and most importantly, the safety for the welder, the stability of the arc, and the quality of the connection.

Choice of any technical device or adaptation requires a careful and careful approach. A properly selected ground terminal will be able to protect the performer from electric shock, and will become a guarantee of obtaining a high-quality and reliable connection. To select the optimal welding mass clamp, you should pay attention to the following important aspects.

1. Gotta choose known and proven trade marks which will help to avoid the purchase of counterfeit products. It is very difficult for a person who does not have sufficient experience to distinguish a fake from an original product. Therefore, you need to buy goods only from specialized sellers and suppliers.
2. The ground clamp for the welding machine should be selected taking into account maximum current The that the aggregate emits.
3. Also, the clamp must confidently support the weight of the connected cable.
4. If the compressive mechanism is spring, then its properties should be sufficient for reliable contact with the working product.
5. Plays one of the main roles opening angle terminal, the value of which must be Sufficient for secure fastening to parts of various sizes.

Ground clamp types

Mass clamps for welding machines, depending on the nature of fixation, can be of several types. Next, we will look at the main types of clamps, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.

1. Z Welding weight press "crocodile"

Most often, performers use a type clamp for grounding "crocodile" ("clothespin"), which is attached directly to the part.

Advantages:

• reliability of connection with the surface of the part;
• convenience and speed of use;
• minimum connection resistance;
• the ability to fix parts of various geometric shape, including those with a complex configuration;
• high degree of disclosure.

It should also highlight the main limitations:

• low, compared with other types, the level of strength of some components - a spring;
• this type of clamp is used only in cases where it is possible to attach directly to the product.

The crocodile clip must be selected based on general recommendations. Terminals of this type are available in three main modifications: ground clamp 300A, 200A and 500A. Depending on the model of the welding machine and the current strength that it produces, it is necessary to determine the optimal modification. For work at a professional level, it is recommended to purchase a clamp for 400-500A.

Important! It should be noted that the use of a “clothespin” clamp when welding pipes large diameter impossible.

Useful video

2. Magnetic mass for welding

Welders often use magnetic ground clamp. This type has a whole spectrum virtues:

• opportunity to make contact on any surface or structure, including pipes;
• simplicity of design ensures durability and trouble-free operation;
• lack of springs and other mechanisms also contributes to long-term operation;
• a ground magnet for welding is able to withstand voltage drops and not burn out;
• successfully applied in hard-to-reach places;
• a large contact area guarantees secure fastening.

Flaws:

• not secure fastening contact on small parts, for example, fittings;
• the impossibility of fixing the clamp on the product from colored metals;
• a magnet is needed periodically decontaminate, in particular from metal shavings;
• should avoid overheating the magnet, otherwise it may become demagnetized; overheating occurs if the terminal is attached to a dirty surface.

3. Clamp

Ground clamps for welding type clamp are used less frequently than the two types listed above. This type of terminal also has several virtues:

• high degree of fastening reliability, since fixation is carried out using a hexagonal screw;
• good contact with the workpiece ensures a smooth current transition.

As shortcomings one can distinguish a rather complex structure of the mechanism and the relatively large dimensions of the terminal.

4. Centralizer

In rare cases, specialists single out a centralizer-type clamp designed for centering and tacking pipes pre-located in the desired position. It can also be used to connect welding parts.

Advantages of this type:

• ensuring tight contact;
• guarantees welding accuracy;
• suitable for pipes of various diameters.

Flaws:

• limited scope;
• high cost compared to other types of clamps.

Useful video

And another reviewer from an experienced welder, which has some tricks.

Popular Models

Consider the popular mass welding clamps. On the market for sale Supplies for welding, a wide variety of mass clamps, both domestic and foreign production. Next, we will consider the most popular models.

Mass clamp Ergus 300A Profi, manufacturer - Quattro Elementi (Italy). Characteristics: type "crocodile"; affordable price; high quality; light weight; supports current up to 300A, which is perfect for a home master.

Mass clamp Skrab 27621 300A(pictured), made in Italy. Is one of the most best options for work at home.

Popular ground terminals are models Russian manufacturer « Cord". The Moscow company offers clamps with different type mechanism.

For execution welding work in industrial or production environments, it is recommended to choose a ground clamp of 500A or more.

Elitech 500A mass clamp, made in China.

Important! It should be noted that almost all manufacturers and sellers of welding equipment also offer customers ground terminals. Therefore, the services of beginners and professional welders are provided wide selection mechanisms.

Do-it-yourself mass for welding

For those who want to create a clamp with my own hands and save money, we suggest that you read the instructions.

Magnetic mass for welding is, if not the most common, then the most desirable, so the process of its manufacture will be shown below.

The process is simple, you need a minimum of tools, and the parts can be at hand.

The contractor will need: magnet; two washers according to the size of the magnet can be made from sheet metal; bolt and nut for clamping the welding cable.

Welding mass holder is assembled in several stages:

• at the washer, which will serve as a contact, a hole is drilled corresponding to the diameter of the bolt head;
• the top of the bolt must be ground down to the thickness of the washer;
• then this structure is welded and cleaned; you should get a part in the form of a mushroom with a threaded leg;
• the magnet is put on the bolt, on top - the second washer;

It often happens that additional devices of welding machines, to the extent of high loads or low-quality materials, become unusable. Such equipment also includes magnetic mass.

This mechanism is a device, the essence of which resembles a clothespin - the magnetic mass is attached to the elements to be welded. Unlike a clothespin clip, it can be fixed to absolutely any surface without any problems, it is more reliable and durable, it is highly resistant to voltage surges, and its wide area reliably protects the tool from short circuits.

Among the shortcomings, one can distinguish poor compatibility with small surfaces of objects to be welded, the impossibility of attaching to non-ferrous metals, as well as the need for regular cleaning of the magnet from metal debris and chips.

In general, the magnetic mass is a fairly simple and reliable device, which can even be made independently. The design includes such elements as: magnet and contact. Both of them are interconnected by a special mount. The mass of the device depends directly on its overall dimensions. The simplicity of the design is the key to reliable and functional operation of the mechanism.

How to make your own magnetic mass?

Process self-manufacturing mass is quite simple. Volume necessary tools and minimal materials. For assembly you will need:

1. The magnet is the main element that ensures the strength of the fastening. A sufficiently powerful and compact magnet can be obtained from failed speakers.
2. Washer - its size should not differ much from the magnet;
3. Nut with a bolt - it is they who will carry the function of the wire clamp.

The assembly process includes 6 successive stages:

1. The puck is being prepared. For convenience, you should stock up on two units, the size of which will correspond to the selected magnet.
2. The washer, which will be the bottom of the device, is drilled.
3. Preparation of the bolt, which involves grinding off its top.
4. All elements are assembled into a single structure, which is subjected to welding and grinding.
5. The magnet is put on the bolt and fixed with a second washer.
6. A mass cable is attached to the stem, and the entire device is tightened with a nut.

The feasibility of self-manufacturing mass for the welding machine, each master determines for himself. At the present time, enough is presented for the buyer big choice factory devices at reasonable prices.

The list of basic devices necessary for manual arc welding includes the following items: electrode holder; welding cable to the holder; return cable; ground terminal (ground terminal).

Quite often, these components are not of high quality and require immediate replacement. There are times when a contractor will need a replacement after a short operation.

The choice of any technical device or fixture requires a careful and careful approach. A properly selected ground terminal will be able to protect the performer from electric shock, and will become a guarantee of obtaining a high-quality and reliable connection. To select the optimal welding mass clamp, you should pay attention to the following important aspects.

1. Gotta choose well-known and trusted brands which will help to avoid the purchase of counterfeit products. It is very difficult for a person who does not have sufficient experience to distinguish a fake from an original product. Therefore, you need to buy goods only from specialized sellers and suppliers.
2. The ground clamp for the welding machine should be selected taking into account maximum current The that the aggregate emits.
3. Also, the clamp must confidently support the weight of the connected cable.
4. If the compressive mechanism is spring, then its properties should be sufficient for reliable contact with the working product.
5. Plays one of the main roles opening angle terminal, the value of which must be Sufficient for secure fastening to parts of various sizes.

Ground clamp types

Mass clamps for welding machines, depending on the nature of fixation, can be of several types. Next, we will look at the main types of clamps, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.

1. Z Welding weight press "crocodile"

Most often, performers use a type clamp for grounding "crocodile" ("clothespin"), which is attached directly to the part.

Advantages:

• reliability of connection with the surface of the part;
• convenience and speed of use;
• minimum connection resistance;
• the ability to fix parts of various geometric shapes, including those with a complex configuration;
• high degree of disclosure.

It should also highlight the main limitations:

• low, in comparison with other types, the level of strength of some components - spring;
• this type of clamp is used only in cases where it is possible to attach directly to the product.

The crocodile clip must be selected based on general recommendations. Terminals of this type are available in three main modifications: ground clamp 300A, 200A and 500A. Depending on the model of the welding machine and the current strength that it produces, it is necessary to determine the optimal modification. For work at a professional level, it is recommended to purchase a clamp for 400-500A.

Useful video

2. Magnetic mass for welding

Welders often use magnetic ground clamp. This type has a wide range virtues:

• opportunity to make contact on any surface or structure, including pipes;
• simplicity of design ensures durability and trouble-free operation;
• lack of springs and other mechanisms also contributes to long-term operation;
• a ground magnet for welding is able to withstand voltage drops and not burn out;
• successfully used in hard-to-reach places;
• a large contact area guarantees secure fastening.

Flaws:

• unreliable fastening of the contact on small parts, for example, fittings;
• the impossibility of fixing the clamp on the product from colored metals;
• a magnet is needed periodically decontaminate, in particular from metal shavings;
• should avoid overheating the magnet, otherwise it may become demagnetized; overheating occurs if the terminal is attached to a dirty surface.

3. Clamp

Ground clamps for welding type clamp are used less frequently than the two types listed above. This type of terminal also has several virtues:

• high degree of fastening reliability, since fixation is carried out using a hexagonal screw;
• good contact with the workpiece ensures a smooth current transition.

As shortcomings one can distinguish a rather complex structure of the mechanism and the relatively large dimensions of the terminal.

4. Centralizer

In rare cases, specialists single out a centralizer-type clamp designed for centering and tacking pipes pre-located in the desired position. It can also be used to connect welding parts.

Advantages of this type:

• ensuring tight contact;
• guarantees welding accuracy;
• suitable for pipes of various diameters.

Flaws:

• limited scope;
• high cost compared to other types of clamps.

Useful video

And another reviewer from an experienced welder, which has some tricks.

Popular Models

Consider the popular mass welding clamps. On the market for the sale of consumables for welding, there is a wide variety of mass clamps, both domestic and foreign. Next, we will consider the most popular models.

Mass clamp Ergus 300A Profi, manufacturer - Quattro Elementi (Italy). Characteristics: type "crocodile"; affordable price; high quality; light weight; supports current up to 300A, which is perfect for a home master.

Mass clamp Skrab 27621 300A(on the picture), production - Italy. It is one of the best options for working at home.

Popular ground terminals are models from a Russian manufacturer " Cord". The Moscow company offers clamps with various types of mechanism.

For welding work in industrial or production conditions, it is recommended to choose a ground clamp of 500A or more.

Mass clamp Elitech 500A, made in China.

Do-it-yourself mass for welding

For those who want to create a clip with their own hands and save money, we suggest that you read the instructions.

Magnetic mass for welding is, if not the most common, then the most desirable, so the process of its manufacture will be shown below.

The process is simple, you need a minimum of tools, and the parts can be at hand.

The contractor will need: magnet; two washers according to the size of the magnet can be made from sheet metal; bolt and nut for clamping the welding cable.

Welding mass holder is assembled in several stages:

• at the washer, which will serve as a contact, a hole is drilled corresponding to the diameter of the bolt head;
• the top of the bolt must be ground down to the thickness of the washer;
• then this structure is welded and cleaned; you should get a part in the form of a mushroom with a threaded leg;
• the magnet is put on the bolt, on top - the second washer;
• in last turn the end of the cable is attached to the threaded rod, the entire structure is tightened with a nut.

Such a home-made mass for welding will be a good cost-saving option and is suitable for home craftsmen. Although there are many critics. What to choose, homemade, cheap product or expensive professional tool, choose yourself.

Often accessories to the welding machine are either of poor quality and break, or they may be absent altogether. The magnetic mass for welding is convenient fixture, allowing you to fix it on the parts to be welded, and good alternative standard clothespins.

What does such contact consist of? positive traits he has and how to make it yourself. More on this later in the article.

Magnet or clip

Typically, welding machines are equipped with a mass cable with a clamp-type holder. At first glance, it is convenient, such a device can be securely fixed to almost any surface (sheets, rolled metal, etc.).

But there are situations when it is not possible to install such a mass on the workpiece or, more often, it burns out. A good alternative would be the magnetic contact of the welding cable.

What are its advantages over a standard clothespin clip?

• This is an opportunity to fix the contact on almost any surface without much hassle.
• The simple design is almost eternal in use, it will not break, as there are no springs and mechanisms.
• Such a mass perfectly withstands voltage drops and loads, as a result of which it does not burn out.
• The large contact area ensures reliable closing.

But there are also disadvantages to this type of fastening of contacts. The main disadvantage is that the magnetic mass for welding will be poorly installed on parts that are small in area, for example, a bar or reinforcement. Second negative property there will be an impossibility of fastening to welded parts made of non-ferrous metals: aluminum, copper and others. Also, over time, the magnet will become contaminated with metal shavings and needs to be cleaned periodically.

Without taking into account the last two factors, this is a rather convenient device that you can even make yourself at no extra cost.

Magnetic contact design

The device itself consists of two parts.

• Contact. This is the point where the ground cable is attached to the holder.
• Magnet. It can be of various shapes and sizes.

These two parts are connected to each other by a fastener. The weight of the magnetic mass for welding will have depending on the dimensions. For example, an ESAB magnetic welding terminal weighs about 850 grams.

The main thing in this design is simplicity, which ensures the reliability of operation and uninterrupted work.

Self-manufacturing

Of course, such fasteners of the welding mass can simply be purchased. Manufacturers that manufacture welding equipment also produce accessories in the form of fasteners. But these are unnecessary financial losses, such a contact can be made independently.

Making a magnetic contact for a welding cable with your own hands is quite simple. You will need a minimum of tools, and the parts can be at hand.

What is needed for this:

• First, a magnet. This is the main part of the entire device, which will ensure the reliability of fastening. Most often you can see homemade products made from a magnet from car speakers.
• Secondly, two washers according to the size of the magnet. If you use a car speaker, then a bolt can be welded onto one of the washers for further assembly.
• Thirdly, a bolt and nut for clamping the cable.

The assembly of the entire system is carried out in this way:

1. Washers can be made from sheet metal, according to the size of the magnet. If this is a speaker, then it usually has round shape. Accordingly, the washers should be the same.
2. At the bottom (the one that will serve directly as a contact), a hole is drilled along the diameter of the bolt head.
3. The very top of the bolt must be ground down to the thickness of the washer.
4. Now this structure is welded and cleaned. You should get a part in the form of a mushroom with a threaded leg.
5. The magnet is put on the bolt, and on top - the second washer.
6. Now, the end of the mass cable is attached to the threaded rod and the entire structure is tightened with a nut.

So, from the simplest material, an elementary mass is collected for welding on a magnet. Her smooth work will be proof correct assembly. The dimensions of such a contact will depend on the dimensions of the magnet. Prefabricated round masses usually have a diameter of about 50-60 millimeters.

For an experienced welder who knows the principle of the work of the mass on the welding machine, it will not be difficult to make the required fastening. The most primitive contact can be a piece of rod fixed to the cable, which is fixed to the workpiece with a pair of welding points. But, of course, such a device is very inconvenient to use.

You can also do it yourself magnetic holder for electrodes. That also already depends on personal preferences in the convenience of work.

Homemade terminal on a magnet a good option savings. Although to use such a mount or not - this is already looking at personal convenience at work. If welding is rarely used (as usual in everyday life), then you can simply get by with a standard clamp.

Reading time: 2 minutes

Magnetic clamp, magnetic clamp, welding cable magnetic contact ... This device has many names. But the essence is always the same: the magnet allows you to quickly and securely attach it to the mass and start welding.

But what is it? What are the pros and cons of a magnetic ground terminal? How to use it and is it worth buying at all? You will find the answer to these and some other questions in our article.

The magnetic contact of the welding cable is a device that is mounted on the surface to be welded (ground) using an active magnetic field. The device is necessary for the formation of a closed electrical circuit. Without this, manual arc welding is impossible.

The magnetic ground clamp is very popular among both beginners and professional welders. Magnetic mass is also often used for do-it-yourself welding at home. It quickly and securely attaches to any surface, even curved.

Advantages and disadvantages

We have already mentioned several advantages of the magnetic terminal above. But the list doesn't end there. The magnetic terminal has simple design Therefore, it is extremely durable and lasts for many years. Simply put, this is an ordinary magnet with a switchable or permanent magnetic field. There are no springs or other mechanical elements that can fail.

The magnetic terminal tolerates temperature and voltage fluctuations well. It rarely burns out and allows you to work with most types of metals. Also, such a ground clamp is indispensable when welding in a hard-to-reach place. Even if the part is bent, the magnet will still provide a secure fit due to its large contact area.

But, it was not without drawbacks. So the magnetic terminal is not able to provide reliable fastening on small parts. For example, on the armature. To maintain an active magnetic field, the device must be constantly cleaned. His work is very badly affected by metal shavings.

Also, to use the magnet, a preliminary one is required. If you attach a magnet to uncleaned metal, the fixture will stop working.

Do not forget that there are metals that are not magnetic. This is the majority of non-ferrous metals. They will not be able to use a magnetic terminal.

How to use?

There is nothing complicated in using a magnetic terminal. Most models have a special handle, by turning which you turn on the magnetic field. By default, the magnet will not attach to metal.

The device must be attached to the part, holding it with one hand. With the other hand, turn the handle, activating the magnetic field. All is ready! The magnet is securely attached to the metal. To remove the fixture, simply turn the handle in reverse side. No need to make efforts and tear off the magnet from the metal.

Is it worth buying?

The answer to this question depends on the specifics of your welding work. You must evaluate for yourself which metals you weld most often and under what conditions. If you are a beginner and do not cook non-ferrous metals, then the magnetic terminal will simplify your work. The same applies to professional craftsmen. But they most likely have a whole set of various terminals for welding any metal.

The magnetic terminal is not cheap (compared to other types of clamps), but it is worth it. If you want to save money, you can make such a terminal yourself. Below is a video showing how to make a magnetic mass for welding on your own.

Ground terminals

Ground terminal(or otherwise, ground clamp) - a key device for welding: electric arc or semi-automatic. Ground terminals come in several types. Their characteristics differ depending on the parameters of the welding itself.

What type ground terminals Under what conditions is it more convenient? On what characteristics does the choice of this device depend?

GROUND CLAMP: ROLE IN WELDING

Mass clamp- made from various metal a device that provides a connection, on the one hand, to the power source and, on the other hand, to the workpiece to be welded.

Regardless of whether it is electric arc welding or semi-automatic, the ground terminal is needed so that a potential difference is provided in the welding zone.

The terminal must be connected to the power source - to one of the welding sockets on the power source panel.

To which socket the terminal should be connected, and to which - the cable going to the electrode depends on a number of parameters. For example, on the type of electrode (for manual arc welding) or on what the power source is - a rectifier or a transformer. In the latter case, it does not matter which of the two corresponding sockets is connected.

Mass clamp further attached to the welded part or to the metal surface with which the part is in contact or on which it is located. Thus, the workpiece to be welded is with the potential of one polarity, and the electrode supplied to it is with the potential of the other polarity.

ESSENTIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE TERMINAL

There are several defining characteristics for ground terminals which should be taken into account when choosing a device. It:

Clamping force.
opening width.
withstand current.

clamping force is how strongly the terminal is attached to the part. If not strong enough, it may not support the weight of the welding cable and the welding connection will break.

Opening width(for clamp-type terminals, see below) is measured in millimeters and indicates how thick a plate the terminal can hook on.

Withstand current- a characteristic that is of paramount importance for welding work. What current the terminal can withstand, we can carry out welding work of such a current. It is necessary to clearly know for which welding work the ground terminal is purchased, so as not to be mistaken with the value of the current withstand by the terminal.

WHAT DOES THE TERMINALS BE DAMAGED

Mass clamp may overheat. The cable insulation melts, the cable burns out, the surface on which the terminal is attached is oxidized. As a result, the contact between the terminal (and hence the current supplied through the cable) and the surface (part) deteriorates.

What causes this?

First of all, due to the fact that the place where the terminal is attached may be in paint or dirty.
Also, due to insufficient contact of the cable with the terminal - at the attachment point.
The third reason is poor quality the terminal itself. If the terminal is made of iron and coated with copper, then the copper layer can wear out, burn out and thus become insufficient.
Another reason for damage to the terminals is due to the lack of a protective busbar (made of copper) in the terminal. The bus connects the ends of the jaws of the terminal. If any of the two sponges (in the “.crocodile” type terminals, see below) has unreliable contact with the surface, the current passes through the bus. But if there is no bus - then the current can go through the center of the terminal, where the spring is located, and the terminal will deteriorate.

WHAT ARE

There are the following common types of ground clamps:

pincer terminals(like "crocodile") - are used where it is possible to grab onto the surface plate (if this is not possible, sometimes a bar is specially welded to which the terminal is attached).
magnetic - used in hard-to-reach places or where it is not possible to grab the plate with a clamp-on terminal (for example, when working with pipes).

Peculiarity magnetic clamps in that it is necessary to avoid overheating them, because the clamp is demagnetized. Overheating in this case often occurs where the magnetic terminal is attached to a heavily contaminated surface and the contact is insufficient.

SUMMER

The ground terminal should be selected based on:

Firstly, from its mechanical characteristics (how wide the crocodile-type terminal opens, how tight the clamp provides).
secondly, from the current necessary for welding, which is indicated in the characteristics of the terminal.

If the terminal is magnetic, pay attention to the absence of dirt and other foreign objects in the area of ​​contact between the clamp and the surface.

If a ground terminal together with the appropriate connectable welding cable is included in the kit - then there are no questions with the choice of the terminal. However, if you choose a ground clamp for any special type of welding (“. assemble.” welding equipment for the necessary welding process), then the current that the terminal can withstand should be paid attention first of all.

The electrical circuit of the welding equipment passes large currents, so each element of the circuit must be securely connected. It is a matter of quality, usability and safety. The most responsible link here can be considered the point of attachment of the mass to the metal workpiece. The assembly is a quick-detachable contact (welding clamp) and can be designed in several versions.

The need to use different modifications of clamps to fix the earth to the part is often due to the configuration of the metals that you are going to weld. Let's try to figure out how good these or other mass clamps are for performing welding operations.

In nature, there are four main designs of clamps for welding:

• a terminal in the form of a crocodile, which received the same name;
• connecting the wire with a magnet;
• clamp in the form of a clamp;
• ground terminal, called a centralizer.

By carefully studying the goods of this category offered on the market, you can see that many original designs welding clamps is a modification of the listed four main ones.

Welding "crocodile"

The quick-detachable welding terminal "crocodile" structurally looks like a clothespin made of metal, in the contact part of which there are ribbed notches on the biting lips. Due to them, the clamp is firmly attached to the steel workpiece, making a reliable electrical connection.

The main advantages of products of this type:

1. Convenient to use when performing operational welding, where you constantly need to rearrange the contact from place to place.
2. Suitable for fixing on parts and structures of any configuration.
3. They have excellent electrical conductivity.

Disadvantages of the crocodile clip:

1. With frequent use, the spring is weakened, which leads to a loss of strength of the mechanical connection.
2. The walls of the metal of the clamp are subject to burn-out, which degrades the electrical connection over time.

For welding machines of different power, manufacturers produce terminals designed for a current of 500, 400, 300 and 200 amperes. For welding work professional level it is recommended to use ground clamps with the ability to pass a current of at least 400 amperes.

Note information. Welding "crocodile" cannot be used when working with parts, the size of the contact pads of which exceeds the opening size of the jaws of the clamp (pipes, cylindrical barrels).

magnetic mass

An electrical clamp, one part of which is made of a metal magnet, and the other is a steel contact with a bolted connection for attaching a cable, is called a magnetic mass.

Magnetic clamps have the following advantages:

1. They have a simple design without mechanically moving parts, which significantly increases the service life of such products.
2. Allows you to fix the mass on any steel surface, regardless of size and configuration.
3. The electrical connection can be established in seconds, which is especially important in on-line welding processes.
4. Possibility of establishing contact in hard-to-reach places.
5. The absence of a tendency to burn out with an unstable flow of electricity, voltage drops.

Significant disadvantages of the magnetic clamp:

1. Weak mechanical, and hence electrical connection with parts, the size of the contact pads of which is much smaller than the contact plane of the magnet.
2. Inability to make contact through a surface made of non-ferrous metals.
3. The need for constant cleaning of the magnet from metal dust, which weakens the electrical connection in the circuit.
4. Overheating the magnet can cause it to demagnetize.

Clamp

It is rare to find a clamp in the arsenal of ordinary welders. Welding clamps of this type can be used by professionals for special tasks. In particular, when performing precise operations, where you need to get a high-quality beautiful seam.

Benefits of using clamps:

1. Obtaining a contact with a better mechanical fixation due to tightening with a screw.
2. Reliable electrical contact for good throughput welding current, which eliminates the possibility of burning and overheating at the connection point.

Main disadvantages:

1. The clamp is not suitable for quickly changing the position of the contact on the surface of the part.
2. As in the case of the "crocodile", the design of the clamp can be fixed to the elements, the size of which is comparable to the space between the bolt and the thrust foot.
3. The clamp is a large-sized product and is more expensive than a regular clothespin.

Note information. separate view - corner clamps for welding, which can be used as a ground terminal (with certain modifications), in addition, they will perform a fixing function, rigidly connecting the parts of the frame to be welded.

Welding centralizer

A specially designed welding clamp to create ground contact with such metal parts like pipes. Structurally, the centralizer is made of two elements, shaped like the working part of the tongs. The components are connected by means of a hinge and pulled together by a screw. In addition to pipes, the centralizer can be attached to any metal workpiece, as long as its thickness does not exceed the possibility of opening the jaws of the terminal.

Benefits of the centralizer:

1. Rigid physical and electrical contact with metal.
2. Convenience of work when performing welding operations with pipes.

Terminal disadvantages:

1. A complex design that does not allow you to quickly switch the welding clamp from place to place.
2. The high price of the product.

What to look for when choosing a clamp for welding

You need to start with the purpose for which the terminal is selected, that is, how much it will be loaded, what type of apparatus is used for welding. Professionals take mass clamps for a welding machine with a margin of safety, amateurs - to look beautiful (and this happens), but the right approach based on the following principles:

1. The clamping power must be designed for a higher current than the rated current on which the inverter operates.
2. The specifics of the welding process: if you need to constantly and quickly change the connection point, then a clothespin type element will do.
3. The compression force of the tightening jaws should be enough to hold the cable if the latter is suspended during the welding process.
4. The size of the opening of the jaws of the terminal must exceed the size of the contact area where it is planned to connect the mass.
5. You should pay attention to whether the manufacturer can be trusted. If the latter has established itself in the market with better side, feel free to purchase the product.

How to make your crocodile clip last longer

The crocodile clip has several vulnerabilities. It has a spring that has a service time. But even when the compression force is not so important and the issue with the spring disappears, there is a tendency for the "crocodile" to burn out at the junction of two moving parts in the hinge area. This is because contact with the cable through bolted connection carried out with only one part of the "crocodile".

During the welding process, one can observe a process when that part of the “crocodile” where the mass is connected can have poor mechanical, and therefore electrical contact with the part, while the opposite part, on the contrary, is good. Then all the current will go through this element. But here a weak link appears - a hinge, in the area of ​​​​it there will be unstable conductivity, overheating and penetration of the metal.

Anyone who has real experience in solving the problem, how to improve the contact of the clamp of the welding mass, or questions on this topic, write in the comments!