The spelling of the word "arc welder" is based on English phonetics. The "arc" sound is spelled with the "a" and "r" letters, pronounced with an open back unrounded vowel followed by a consonant. The "welder" sound is spelled with the "w", "e", "l", "d", and "er" letters, pronounced with a voiced labio-dental fricative, short "e" sound, dark "l" sound, voiced dental plosive, and a schwa sound. Together, "arc welder" is pronounced as /ɑːrk ˈwɛldər/.
An arc welder is a type of welding machine or equipment that utilizes the electric arc process to join metals together. It is commonly used in various industries and applications, such as construction, fabrication, automotive, and manufacturing.
Operating on the principle of electrical resistance, an arc welder generates an intense electric current that creates an electric arc between an electrode and the workpiece. This arc produces the heat required to melt the metals being joined, forming a weld.
The arc welder typically consists of several components. It includes a power source that provides the necessary electrical energy and an electrode holder that holds the consumable electrode. The electrode is a metal rod or wire that serves as the filler material for the weld.
Another integral part of an arc welder is the welding cable, which connects the power source to the electrode holder. It ensures the flow of the electric current to the workpiece.
Arc welders can be operated using either direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC), depending on the specific welding process and materials being welded. They are available in different sizes and power capacities, ranging from small portable units for light-duty applications to large industrial machines for heavy-duty projects.
Overall, arc welders provide a versatile and efficient method for joining metals. Their widespread use is attributable to their ability to produce strong and reliable welds in various settings and materials.
The word "arc welder" can be broken down into two parts for etymological analysis.
1. Arc: The term "arc" originated from the Latin word "arcus", meaning "bow" or "arch". It refers to a curved or bow-shaped electrical discharge that occurs when an electric current jumps across a gap between two conductive materials. The use of the term "arc" in the context of welding relates to the formation of an electric arc that generates intense heat for joining metals together.
2. Welder: The word "welder" is derived from the verb "weld", which appeared in Middle English as "welden" and originally comes from the Old English word "weldan". The precise origin of "weldan" is uncertain, but it is believed to have Proto-Germanic roots.