What typically does an arc welder use to create a weld?

An arc welder uses high voltage electricity to create a weld by generating an electric arc between the welding electrode and the workpiece. This arc produces intense heat, which melts the metal at the joint and allows for the fusion of the materials being welded. The process is efficient and effective for joining metal components, as the high temperature can exceed 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit, sufficient to melt various types of metals.

The use of high voltage electricity is critical because it allows for precise control over the welding process, and by adjusting the current, the welder can manipulate the heat input, which affects the quality and characteristics of the weld. This method contrasts with other techniques, such as using heat from a torch, which relies on combustion rather than electrical energy, or creating a weld through chemical reactions or mechanical means like joint compression, which are not typical in arc welding processes.