Welding Leads


This department contains the below products for a lead welding kit

  • Arc Welding Leads
  • Earth Cable Assemblies for Welding Sets
  • Welding Lead Extension Cables


Choosing the correct welding lead

In general, the heavier the duty of a welding lead, the greater the level of protection for the welder. The greater the "ampacity" or capacity for electrical current, the heavier and thicker the cable. The length of the welding cable is directly proportional to the amount of electrical current. In addition, the resistance rating, temperature rating, ambient temperature, and conductor temperature all have an impact on the capacity of a welding cable.


Which welding lead do I need?

A specific size of male twist dinse connection is required for welding equipment. The welding lead and earth clamp must be capable of carrying a significant amount of electrical current. Because copper is less prone to overheating, it is far more often utilised than aluminium.


What to think about when buying a welding lead

  • Electrical current capacity
  • Length
  • Resistance rating
  • Temperature rating
  • Resistance rating
  • Ambient temperature
  • Conductor temperature


What is a welding lead?

A welding lead conducts electricity from a welding equipment to a welding electrode. The lead is protected by a thick rubber jacket that incorporates several thin copper strands for flexibility.


What cables are needed for arc welding?

Two cables are required: one links the welding machine to what is being welded, and the second connects the welding machine to an electrode; both cables are then linked together to form a complete circuit.


Which welding lead is positive and negative?

The anode in a welding circuit is positive because it attracts electrons in the arc. The cathode, on the other hand, creates electrons in the arc, making it negatively charged.


Overheating a welding lead

If the cable is too tiny and the electrical current exceeds the capacity, it will overheat, cease operating, and pose a fire danger. Furthermore, there is a risk of electric shock if the insulating jacket melts.


Why is my welding lead warm?

As long as the cable is not damaged and all protocols are followed appropriately, it is normal for welding leads to remain warm after welding for lengthy periods of time.


What is a welding lead whip?

Fatigue can be a concern for welders who must utilise bigger cables for extended periods of time. As a result, some welders employ a "whip," which reduces the length of the welding line from the holding position to the ground, making it considerably more comfortable. Connectors may be used to connect your welding cable to a whip. Welding leads and whips are available as a set or separately.


How to be cost effective when choosing a welding lead?

Choose a wire that is not much larger than what you require. Larger cables have more copper strands, thus they are more expensive.


Amps and Lead Sizes

Amps 100 feet 150 feet 200 feet 250 feet 300 feet
100 4 4 2 2 1
150 4 2 1 1/0 2/0
200 2 1 1/0 2/0 3/0
250 1 1/0 2/0 3/0 4/0
300 1/0 2/0 3/0 4/0
350 1/0 3/0 4/0
400 2/0 3/0
450 2/0 4/0
500 3/0 4/0


Cable Size: Metric Cross-Sectional Area

Cable Size
(American Wire Gauge)
Equivalent
Size (mm²)
Standard International
Size (mm²)
6 13.3 10
5 16.8 16
4 21.1 25
3 26.7 25
2 33.6 35
1 42.4 50
1/0 53.5 50
2/0 67.4 70
3/0 85.0 95
4/0 107.2 120


© 2024 AES Industrial Supplies Limited

Company Registration: 07988136 Registered Office: Olympic House, Collett, Southmead Park, Didcot, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom, OX11 7WB

AES

We have placed cookies on your device to help make this website better.