Safety and Equipment Setup Flashcards

What shade lens is generally recommended for SMAW welding with electrodes in the 1/8" to 5/32" diameter range?

Answer: Shade 10

Shade 10 is the standard recommendation for SMAW with electrodes in the 1/8" to 5/32" range per ANSI Z49.1.

What should a welder do if the electrode holder becomes extremely hot during SMAW?

Answer: Check for a loose connection or undersized cable, then allow it to cool

Overheating in a stinger usually indicates high resistance from a loose or corroded connection or an undersized welding cable.

In TIG welding setup, what is the purpose of the high-frequency (HF) start feature?

Answer: It allows the arc to be initiated without the tungsten touching the workpiece

HF start ignites the arc with a high-frequency spark so the tungsten electrode never contacts the work, preserving electrode geometry and preventing contamination.

Which grounding clamp placement is most important for preventing arc blow during DC welding?

Answer: Directly on the workpiece as close to the weld as practical

Placing the work clamp close to the weld minimizes the magnetic field path that causes arc blow in DC welding.

What does the acronym PPE stand for in the context of welding safety?

Answer: Personal Protective Equipment

PPE stands for Personal Protective Equipment, including helmets, gloves, leathers, and respirators used to protect welders.

Which type of fire extinguisher is appropriate for a welding area where flammable metal shavings may be present?

Answer: Class D (dry powder)

Class D extinguishers use specialized dry powder agents designed for burning metals such as magnesium, titanium, or aluminum shavings.

What is the recommended practice before welding on any used container such as a drum or tank?

Answer: Hot work permit, purge with inert gas, and certify it as gas-free

Used containers must have a hot work permit, be purged with inert gas, and be certified gas-free by a competent person before any welding.