What is the ideal heat distribution with DCEP Welding Current?

• A. Electrode absorbs 2/3 of the heat. Work absorbs 1/3 of the heat.
• B. Electrode absorbs 1/3; Work absorbs 2/3.
• C. Both electrode and work absorb equal heat.
• D. Heat distribution depends on wire feed speed.

Answer: (A)

With DCEP, the electrode is the positive pole, so the arc heat is concentrated more in the electrode than in the workpiece. In practice, about two-thirds of the heat goes into the electrode and about one-third into the workpiece. This happens because the electrode, being the anode, absorbs more energy from the arc, while the workpiece receives less heat. The result is a hotter electrode and a relatively cooler weld pool, which influences electrode cooling needs and weld bead characteristics. If heat were evenly split or if the workpiece absorbed more heat, that would correspond to different polarity conditions, not DCEP. Wire feed speed affects deposition rate, not the fundamental heat split between electrode and work.