Magnetic mass for welding is special device which provides reliable fixation on metal surfaces. This allows you to comfortably perform welding work on complex surfaces where the use of classic alligator clips is not possible.

There are many design options that depend on the work conditions. The structure of this device is not particularly complicated. For this reason, some craftsmen prefer to use homemade magnets for welding.

This device is mounted on the working plane of the workpiece. Thanks to the active magnetic field, a strong fastening is achieved, creating a closed electrical circuit - the main condition for the formation of electrical power.

The tool is especially popular among novice welders - it will take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the principles of the work. Experienced specialists use magnetic mass to welding machine during critical work - pipe welding large diameter or connecting load-bearing units made of profile materials.

Design of magnetic contact and its characteristics

Consists of two nodes:

1. Cable holder. The ground cable is attached to it welding equipment using a bolted connection.
2. Magnetic assembly. The size of the magnet depends on the design features. Some models are equipped with a mechanism that regulates the pressure of the magnet on the working plane. Professional devices have switches.

The parts are connected to each other by a rigid fastening. The main characteristics of the devices are:

1. Dimensions and weight. Depends on the manufacturer and specific model. The average weight is 1-1.2 kg.
2. The force of attraction to the surface. Varies in the range from 2 to 50 kg.
3. Welding current strength. The maximum value of the parameter is measured in amperes. For entry-level models, it does not exceed 200 A. An advanced tool is capable of operating at 400-500 A.
4. Execution type. They produce special clamps for corners with gap adjustment.

Safety regulations prohibit connecting a cable without a special lug, which is clamped with bolts.

Advantages and disadvantages

- the most common method of joining metal products. The quality of the future connection depends on the integrity of the electrical circuit.

That is why the invention of the device in question aroused serious interest among specialists.

The popularity of magnetic mass for welding is due to the following advantages:

1. Reliable fixation will allow the welder to concentrate on work without being distracted by adjusting the clamp.
2. The working mechanism is a permanent or switchable magnet. Subject to compliance with operating conditions, it can serve for an unlimited period.
3. You do not need any consumables to use the holder.
4. Even compact models have a contact patch sufficient for reliable closure.
5. The device is resistant to sudden voltage changes or temperature changes.
6. The magnet can be attached anywhere to create comfortable conditions to complete the connection.

Despite the large number of advantages, there are a number of disadvantages:

1. Before use, it is necessary to prepare the surface. The procedure involves removing dirt and foreign particles.
2. There is no possibility of attaching to parts small size, for example, a circle with a small cross-section.
3. It is impossible to work with non-ferrous metals because they are not magnetic.

How to use?

The technology for using the device is not complicated. First of all, the welding cable is connected, after which installation begins.

Most units are equipped with switches that activate a magnetic field. At rest, the magnet will not be attracted to the surface.

One person is required for commissioning. After contact with the working plane, the device must be activated. Upon completion of these steps, the clamp is in operating mode.

After completing the work, perform the above steps in reverse order. Do not try to separate the switched-on device from the part - many models have quite high tear strength. In addition, this may damage the latch.

Upon completion of work, you should immediately clean the contact surface of the magnet from metal shavings, since they negatively affect the force of attraction.

Is it worth buying?

The answer to this question can only be given by the master performing the work. For a novice welder who has just started his professional career, this device can make life significantly easier.

If a specialist works primarily with non-ferrous metals, a magnetic clamp will most likely not be useful.

Experienced workers have a set of various clamps for all occasions, including this device.

The cost of the device is quite high. If you have knowledge in the field of electrical engineering, you can try to make it yourself. The technology and manufacturing process will be discussed below.

How to do it yourself?

Experienced craftsmen try to reduce all costs for the purchase of auxiliary and working equipment to a minimum. Due to the simplicity of the design, no special equipment or complex tools are needed for manufacturing.

For assembly homemade device The following equipment should be prepared:

1. Magnet. The working part of the unit. It must have sufficient power to securely attach to metal. Magnets from old car speakers with a power of 10-15 W are ideal for this purpose.
2. Two washers. Their size must correspond to the diameter of the magnet.

Sometimes it can be difficult to select washers for the size of the magnet. It is much easier to make washers yourself from sheet metal.

1. Set of hardware for fixing the welding cable.

Algorithm for performing the work:

1. One of the washers will make contact with the working plane. It is necessary to make a hole in it corresponding to the size of the bolt head.
2. The cap is cut to the thickness of the washer.
3. After preliminary preparation The structure is connected by welding. The product should resemble a mushroom, in which the threaded part of the bolt plays the role of a leg.
4. A magnet is placed on the mushroom. Place a second washer on the reverse side.
5. A welding tip is attached to the thread, and the entire structure is secured with nuts.

Functionality testing is performed only in the field. The quality criterion will be the correct functioning of the welding machine.

Do-it-yourself welding compound is a great way to save money, as well as a means to test your DIY skills.

A properly assembled device will last no less than the factory clamp.

Conclusion

Magnetic mass is a useful invention that can make life easier for both beginners and experienced welders. The device has many advantages that justify the fairly high cost.

The need to have this device in the arsenal depends only on the specific master. Having the appropriate skills, you can assemble a magnetic clamp yourself, using available materials.

Amateur welder Kuliev Rustam Alievich: « I live in apartment building, but I have a dacha outside the city, so the time for active use of the welding machine is from May to October. Last year I came across a magnetic clip in a store and bought it. The impressions are twofold - it won’t help welding a frame for grapes, but it will do the job of repairing a fence from the profile. Overall, I’m happy with the purchase: the mass never fell off during operation».

» Ground clamp

The list of basic devices required for manual electric arc welding includes the following items: electrode holder; welding cable to holder; return cable; ground terminal (ground clamp).

Quite often these components are not of high quality and require immediate replacement. There are times when the contractor will need a replacement after a short period of use.

Important! If the welding work clamp is faulty, this negatively affects the work process, its productivity, and most importantly, safety for the welder, the stability of the arc, and the quality of the connection.

The choice of any technical device or device requires a careful and attentive approach. A correctly selected ground terminal can protect the performer from electric shock and will guarantee a high-quality and reliable connection. To select the optimal welding work clamp, you should pay attention to the following important aspects.

1. You have to choose known and proven trademarks , which will help you avoid purchasing counterfeit products. It is very difficult for a person who does not have sufficient experience to distinguish a fake from an original product. Therefore, you need to buy products only from specialized sellers and suppliers.
2. The ground clamp for the welding machine should be selected taking into account maximum current, which the unit produces.
3. Also the clamp should confidently withstand the weight of the connected cable.
4. If the compression mechanism is spring, then its properties should be sufficient for reliable contact with the work product.
5. Plays one of the main roles opening angle terminals, the value of which should be sufficient for secure attachment to parts of various sizes.

Types of ground clamps

Ground clamps for welding machines, depending on the nature of the fixation, can be of several types. Next, we will look at the main types of clamps, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.

1. W welding mass pressure “crocodile”

Most often, performers use a type clamp for grounding "crocodile" ("clothespin"), which is attached directly to the part.

Advantages:

• reliability of connection with the surface of the part;
• convenience and speed of use;
• minimal connection resistance;
• the ability to fix parts of various geometric shapes, including those with complex configurations;
• high degree of disclosure.

It is also worth highlighting the main flaws:

• low, compared to other types, level of strength of some components - spring;
• this type The clamp is used only in cases where it is possible to attach directly to the product.

The alligator clip must be selected based on general recommendations. Terminals of this type are available in three main modifications: ground clamp 300A, 200A and 500A. Depending on the model of the welding machine and the current it produces, you need to determine the optimal modification. To carry out work at a professional level, it is recommended to purchase a 400-500A clamp.

Important! It should be noted that the use of a clothespin clamp when welding large diameter pipes is impossible.

Useful video

2. Magnetic mass for welding

Welders quite often use magnetic ground clamp. This type has a whole spectrum advantages:

• possibility to secure a contact on any surface or structure, including pipes;
• simplicity of design ensures durability and trouble-free operation;
• absence of springs and other mechanisms also promotes long service life;
• a ground magnet for welding is able to withstand voltage surges and not burn out;
• successfully used in hard-to-reach places;
• The large contact area guarantees secure fastening.

Flaws:

• Not reliable fastening contact on small parts, for example, fittings;
• impossibility of attaching the clamp to the product from colored metals;
• a magnet is needed periodically cleanse, in particular from metal shavings;
• should Avoid overheating the magnet, otherwise it may demagnetize; Overheating occurs if the terminal is attached to a dirty surface.

3. Clamp

Welding Ground Clamps Type clamp are used less frequently than the two types listed above. This type of terminal also has several advantages:

• high degree of fastening reliability, since fixation is carried out using a hex head screw;
• good contact with the workpiece ensures a smooth transition of current.

As shortcomings One can highlight the rather complex structure of the mechanism and the relatively large dimensions of the terminal.

4. Centralizer

In rare cases, experts select a centralizer-type clamp, designed for centering and tacking pipes previously located in the desired position. Can also be used to connect welding parts.

Advantages of this type:

• ensuring tight contact;
• guarantees welding accuracy;
• Suitable for pipes of various diameters.

Flaws:

• limited scope;
• high cost compared to other types of clamps.

Useful video

And another review from an experienced welder, which has some tricks.

Popular models

Consider popular welding ground clamps. On the market for sale consumables There is a wide variety of work clamps for welding, both domestic and foreign. Next we will look at the most popular models.

Ground clamp Ergus 300A Pro, manufacturer - Quattro Elementi (Italy). Characteristics: crocodile type; affordable price; high quality; light weight; supports current up to 300A, which is perfect for the home craftsman.

Ground clamp Skrab 27621 300A(in the picture), made in Italy. Is one of the most optimal options for work at home.

Popular grounding terminals are the models Russian manufacturer « Cord". The Moscow company offers clamps with different types mechanism.

To perform welding work In industrial or production environments, it is recommended to select a mass clamp of 500A or more.

Elitech 500A mass clamp, made in China.

Important! It should be noted that almost all manufacturers and sellers of welding equipment also offer customers grounding terminals. Therefore, a wide selection of mechanisms is available to beginners and professional welders.

Do-it-yourself welding compound

For those who want to create a clamp with my own hands To save money, we suggest you read the instructions.

Magnetic mass for welding is, if not the most common, then the most desirable, so the process of its manufacture will be shown below.

The process is simple, you will need a minimum of tools, and the parts can be at hand.

The performer will need: magnet; two washers the size of the magnet can be made from sheet metal; bolt and nut for clamping the welding cable.

The welding mass holder is assembled in several stages:

• At the washer, which will serve as a contact, a hole is drilled corresponding to the diameter of the bolt head;
• the top of the bolt must be ground down to the thickness of the washer;
• then this structure is welded and cleaned; you should get a mushroom-shaped part with a carved stem;
• the magnet is placed on the bolt, with a second washer on top;

Reading time: 2 minutes

Magnetic terminal, magnetic clamp, magnetic contact of the welding cable... This device has many names. But the essence is always the same: a magnet allows you to quickly and reliably attach it to the ground and start welding.

But what is it? What are the pros and cons of a magnetic ground terminal? How to use it and is it worth buying at all? You will find the answer to these and some other questions in our article.

The magnetic contact of a welding cable is a device that is mounted on the surface to be welded (ground) using an active magnetic field. The device is necessary to form a closed electrical circuit. Without this, manual arc welding is impossible.

The magnetic ground clamp is very popular among both beginners and professional welders. Magnetic mass is also often used for DIY welding at home. It quickly and securely attaches to any surface, even curved ones.

Advantages and disadvantages

We have already mentioned several advantages of a magnetic terminal above. But the list doesn’t end there. The magnetic terminal has simple design, so it is extremely durable and lasts for many years. Simply put, it is a regular magnet with a switchable or permanent magnetic field. There are no springs or other mechanical elements that can fail.

The magnetic terminal tolerates temperature and voltage changes well. It rarely burns out and can work with most types of metals. Also, such a ground clamp is indispensable when welding in hard to reach place. Even if the part is bent, the magnet will still provide reliable fastening due to its large contact area.

But it was not without its drawbacks. So the magnetic terminal is not able to provide reliable fastening to small parts. For example, on fittings. To maintain an active magnetic field, the device must be constantly cleaned. Its operation is very badly affected by metal shavings.

Also, to use a magnet, preliminary preparation is required. If you attach a magnet to uncleaned metal, the device will stop working.

Don't forget that there are metals that are not magnetic. These are most non-ferrous metals. You won't be able to use a magnetic terminal with them.

How to use?

There is nothing complicated about using a magnetic terminal. Most models have a special handle, turning which you turn on the magnetic field. By default, the magnet will not attach to metal.

The device must be attached to the part, holding it with one hand. With your other hand, turn the handle, activating the magnetic field. Everything is ready! The magnet holds securely on the metal. To remove the device, simply turn the handle reverse side. There is no need to put any effort into tearing the magnet off the metal.

Is it worth buying?

The answer to this question depends on the specifics of your welding work. You must evaluate for yourself which metals you cook most often and under what conditions. If you are a beginner and do not weld non-ferrous metals, then a magnetic terminal will simplify your work. The same applies to professional craftsmen. But they most likely have a whole set of different terminals for welding any metals.

The magnetic terminal is not cheap (compared to other types of clamps), but it is worth it. If you want to save money, you can make such a terminal yourself. Below is a video that shows how to make a magnetic mass for welding on your own.

The electrical circuit of welding equipment carries large currents, so each element of the circuit must be securely connected. This is a matter of quality, ease of use and safety. The most critical link here can be considered the point at which the mass is attached to the metal workpiece. The unit is a quick-detachable contact (welding clamp) and can be structurally made in several variants.

The need to use different modifications of clamps to secure the ground to the part is often determined by the configuration of the metals that you are going to weld. Let's try to figure out why certain weight clamps are good for welding operations.

In nature, there are four main designs of welding clamps:

• a terminal in the shape of a crocodile, which received the same name;
• connecting the wire with a magnet;
• clamp in the form of a clamp;
• a grounding terminal called a centralizer.

Upon careful study of the product of this category offered on the market, one can be convinced that many original designs Welding clamps are a modification of the four main ones listed.

Welding "crocodile"

The quick-release welding crocodile clamp structurally looks like a clothespin made of metal, in the contact part of which there are ribbed notches on the biting jaws. Due to them, the clamp is firmly attached to the steel workpiece, providing a reliable electrical connection.

The main advantages of products of this type:

1. Convenient to use when performing operational welding work, where you constantly need to move the contact from place to place.
2. Suitable for fixing to parts and structures of any configuration.
3. They have excellent electrical conductivity.

Disadvantages of the alligator clip:

1. With frequent use, the spring weakens, which leads to a loss of strength of the mechanical connection.
2. The metal walls of the clamp are susceptible to burning, which degrades the electrical connection over time.

For welding machines of different power, manufacturers produce terminals designed for current strengths of 500, 400, 300 and 200 amperes. To perform professional welding work, it is recommended to use ground clamps capable of passing a current of at least 400 amperes.

Information to note. The welding “crocodile” cannot be used when working with parts whose contact pad size exceeds the opening size of the clamp jaws (pipes, cylindrical barrels).

Magnetic mass

An electrical clamp, one part of which is made of a metal magnet, and the other is a steel contact with a bolted connection for securing the cable, is called a magnetic mass.

Magnetic clamps have the following advantages:

1. They have a simple design without mechanically moving parts, which significantly increases the service life of such products.
2. Allows you to fix the mass on any steel surface, regardless of size and configuration.
3. The electrical connection can be established in a matter of seconds, which is especially important for on-line welding processes.
4. Possibility of establishing contact in hard-to-reach places.
5. No tendency to burn out due to unstable electricity flow or voltage sags.

Significant disadvantages of magnetic clamp:

1. Weak mechanical, and therefore electrical connection with parts whose contact pads are significantly smaller than the contact plane of the magnet.
2. Inability to make contact through a surface made of non-ferrous metals.
3. The need to constantly clean the magnet from metal dust, which weakens the electrical connection in the circuit.
4. Overheating the magnet can lead to demagnetization.

Clamp

It is rare to find a clamp in the arsenal of ordinary welders. Welding clamps of this type can be used by professionals to solve special problems. In particular, when performing precise operations where you need to get a high-quality, beautiful seam.

The advantages of using a clamp:

1. Achieving contact with better mechanical fixation by tightening with a screw.
2. Reliable electrical contact ensuring good throughput welding current, which eliminates the possibility of burning and overheating at the connection point.

Main disadvantages:

1. The clamp is not suitable for quickly changing the position of the contact on the surface of the part.
2. As in the case of the “crocodile”, the clamp design can be fixed to elements whose size is comparable to the space between the bolt and the thrust leg.
3. A clamp is a large product and is more expensive than a regular clothespin.

Information to note. Separate view - corner clamps for welding, which can be used as a ground terminal (with certain modifications), in addition, they will perform a fixing function, rigidly connecting the parts of the frame being welded.

Welding centralizer

A specially designed welding clamp to create mass contact with metal parts such as pipes. Structurally, the centralizer is made of two elements, shaped like the working part of the pliers. The components are connected by a hinge and tightened with a screw. In addition to pipes, the centralizer can be attached to any metal workpiece, as long as its thickness does not exceed the opening capabilities of the terminal jaws.

Advantages of the centralizer:

1. Hard physical and electrical contact with metal.
2. Ease of use when performing welding operations with pipes.

Disadvantages of the terminal:

1. A complex design that does not allow you to quickly switch the welding clamp from place to place.
2. High price for the product.

What to look for when choosing a welding clamp

You need to start with the purpose for which the terminal is selected, that is, how loaded it will be, what type of machine is used for welding. Professionals take earth clamps for a welding machine with a margin of strength, amateurs - so that they look beautiful (and this happens), but the right approach is based on the following principles:

1. The clamping power must be designed for a higher current relative to the rated current at which the inverter operates.
2. Specifics welding process: if you need to constantly and quickly change the connection point, then a clothespin type element is suitable.
3. The compression force of the tightening jaws should be sufficient to hold the cable if the latter is suspended during the welding process.
4. The opening size of the terminal jaws must exceed the size of the contact pad where the ground is planned to be connected.
5. You should pay attention to whether the manufacturer can be trusted. If the latter has proven itself in the market with the best side, feel free to purchase the product.

How to Make an Alligator Clip Last Longer

The alligator clip has several weak points. It has a spring that has a service life. But even when the compression force is not so important and the issue with the spring disappears, the tendency of the “crocodile” remains to burn out at the junction of two moving parts in the hinge area. This happens because the contact with the cable through bolted connection carried out with only one part of the “crocodile”.

During the welding process, you can observe a process where that part of the “crocodile” where the mass is connected may have poor mechanical and, therefore, electrical contact with the part, while the opposite part, on the contrary, has good contact. Then all the current will flow through this element. But here a weak link appears - the hinge; in the area around it there will be unstable conductivity, overheating and melting of the metal.

Anyone who has real experience in solving the problem of how to improve the contact of the welding compound clamp, or questions on this topic, write in the comments!

As a rule, the welding machine is equipped with a cheap grounding terminal. But its quality is such that in most cases it quickly fails or is not suitable for the welder for some other reason. You need to go to the store to buy a new terminal.

How to choose from the offered range if you are just starting to weld? What do you need to know for this? Read in the article.

Due to poor contact, the welding process will be constantly interrupted. Therefore, the mass clamp must be selected based on the following considerations:

• Taking into account the maximum operating current of the welding machine;
• It must support the weight of the cable being connected;
• The spring compression force must ensure reliable contact with the product or the copper pad on which it is installed;
• The opening size of the terminal should guarantee reliable fastening on structures of small and large sizes.

Ground terminals come in three types:

• clamp;
• clothespin "Crocodile";
• magnetic clip.

If a situation arises during your work in which it is difficult to grasp with a clamp or crocodile, you can easily do this using a magnetic clamp. With a magnet, you can easily attach to any surface, be it a pipe or a structure of complex shape.

Home design feature Such welding mass is a spring, which ensures quick fastening to the metal. It is also the “Achilles heel” of the device.

Understanding the operating principle of a crocodile-type mass allows you to extend its life and not ruin it after two or three welding jobs. What are we talking about? On any clamp there is a strip (copper-plated or brass) that transfers contact from one clamping jaw to another. If you do not monitor its condition and incorrectly connect the mass to the metal, it may deteriorate. A common malfunction is that a contact that fits with a wire to one clamping jaw may slip through the spring to another. As a result, the spring begins to heat up, which leads to a loss of its hardness and springing properties (in metallurgy, this process is called tempering), aimed at reliable fastening of the clamp to the surface of the metal product. Because of this, the mass is destroyed at a rapid pace. To maintain working condition, you need to monitor the condition of the strip: it should not touch the metal when connecting. The photos clearly demonstrate what is meant.

Correct contact

Buy a "crocodile" for professional work. Which positive aspects it usually has:

• the design is correct (the strip is recessed so that it cannot be touched)
• quality materials,
• more powerful spring;
• larger girth (sometimes it is simply not replaceable).

Take with a reserve of 400 -500A.

How to improve the ground terminal?

What are the dangers of steel jaws? They will get hot - steel is a much worse conductor than copper or brass. To prevent this from happening, you can remake a cheap clothespin that costs 40-50 rubles. (if, of course, you have some copper or brass in your household, for example, a plate or tube, a tire).

What needs to be done? You need to unscrew the original jaws, which are held on by bolts, and use them, like a template, to make other jaws. It is enough that in cross-section they represent the Russian letter “P”. Without special effort you will get a good contact on a poor quality clothespin!

Do-it-yourself magnetic clamp for welding

Welders can appreciate the benefits of using a magnetic terminal when working with complex structures, where there is simply nowhere to hook an ordinary “crocodile”. And here you throw the mass onto the surface of the metal being processed - and you perform welding work.

You can buy it at any welding supply store, but will it meet your needs and be as reliable as a terminal you make yourself? Everyone invents something somehow, some make “crocodiles” in the garage, but few people undertake to invent magnetic masses... In general, do it and you’ll have something to brag about to your welding friends!

• The terminal itself is cut from 2mm and 0.5mm sheet metal, and the magnet is taken from a non-working speaker, and a 20x20x3mm hot-rolled angle segment is also used here as a cable pressure plate. All other components: screws, washers, nuts are standard.
• The connection can be made to the ground cable of the welding machine, replacing the standard “crocodile”, or you can separately equip this type of ground with a bayonet connector and a cable with a cross-section of 1x16mm.