Electrode Extension (Stickout)
The adjustment factor, consisting of working distance and stickout, affects weld time and quality in gas-shielded welding. Too large a distance can lead to insufficient heat input, while too small a distance leads to overheating and embrittlement of the steel.
Physicochemical mechanism of action
The adjustment factor refers to the distance between the welding torch and the workpiece surface (stickout) as well as the distance between the welding torch and the next workpiece (working distance). These distances affect the heat input transferred from the shielding gas to the material being welded. A larger working distance can slow heat transfer, while a smaller distance increases temperature and raises the risk of embrittlement.
Metallurgical relevance & risks in welding
If the adjustment factor is too large (large working distance), the steel may not be heated enough. This can lead to incomplete fusion and weak spots in the weld. If the adjustment factor is too small (smaller working distance), the temperature can rise so high that the steel becomes brittle and deforms. This increases the risk of cracking and reduces the mechanical properties of the weld.
Workshop practice & instructions
For optimal results, set the adjustment factor so that the steel is heated uniformly. A typical working distance is about 1 to 2 cm, while stickout can vary depending on material and welding process. It is important to follow the specific requirements of the material and welding process, and to precisely control the shielding gas heat output and temperature.