what is arc length in welding

Arc length in welding refers to the distance between the tip of the welding electrode and the surface of the workpiece being welded. It is a critical factor that significantly influences the quality and integrity of the weld. The arc length affects heat input, penetration, weld bead appearance, and overall weld quality. A shorter arc length allows for faster welding speed and facilitates quicker fusion, which can be advantageous for welding thinner materials. On the other hand, a longer arc length is used in specific welding processes such as plug and slot welding, and for restarting the arc and withdrawing the electrode at the end of a bead after filling the crater. The arc length is intimately connected to the voltage in a welding circuit, and when the arc length is increased, the electrical resistance also rises. Therefore, maintaining the appropriate arc length is crucial for achieving the desired welding results.