Which statement accurately describes heat distribution when using DCEN?

Which statement accurately describes heat distribution when using DCEN?

• A. 2/3 of the heat goes to the work, 1/3 to the tungsten
• B. 1/3 to the work, 2/3 to the tungsten
• C. 1/2 to each
• D. All heat goes to the work

Answer: (A)

With DCEN, the electrode is negative and the workpiece is positive, so most of the arc heat is deposited into the workpiece. The typical distribution is about two-thirds of the heat into the base metal and about one-third into the tungsten. This keeps the tungsten cooler and extends its life while still providing enough heat to melt and fuse the workpiece. If you switched to DCEP, the heat distribution would reverse, delivering more heat to the electrode.

With DCEN, the electrode is negative and the workpiece is positive, so most of the arc heat is deposited into the workpiece. The typical distribution is about two-thirds of the heat into the base metal and about one-third into the tungsten. This keeps the tungsten cooler and extends its life while still providing enough heat to melt and fuse the workpiece. If you switched to DCEP, the heat distribution would reverse, delivering more heat to the electrode.