Which term refers to direct current electrode negative?

The term that refers to direct current electrode negative is commonly known as DCEN, which stands for Direct Current Electrode Negative. In this configuration, the direction of current flow is from the workpiece to the electrode. This setup is crucial when considering the heating effects and penetration characteristics during the welding process.

Using DCEN results in a higher amount of heat being concentrated in the workpiece, which enhances penetration into the base material. This is especially beneficial when welding thicker materials or when deeper weld pools are required. The term “straight polarity” specifically indicates that the electrode is negative relative to the workpiece, which is the defining characteristic of DCEN.

In contrast, other options such as DCEP (Direct Current Electrode Positive) would indicate the opposite configuration, where the electrode is positive and the heat flows primarily towards the electrode, leading to different penetration and weld characteristics. Constant current and direct current pulse refer to different aspects of welding techniques or modes but don’t specifically denote the electrode polarity in question. Understanding these terms is essential for welding professionals as they directly influence the quality and characteristics of the weld.