Intro into Brazing

[etpm]

Ignorant novice question: My ancient 230a-AC stick welder came with a carbon arc torch. Is this usable for brazing, or for heating/bending steel? I've never used it for anything.

Though I haven't done so myself I have seen folks use the carbon arc for brazing. I have made carbon arc torches. They put out copious amounts of UV and are loud. They buzz. The heat is hard to aim, unlike the flame from a torch. But yes, the torch can be used for brazing and heating stuff. Give it a try and let us all know how it went. YouTube has videos showing the process so you won't need to go into the experiment blind. Though without proper eye protection you may end up blind.
Eric

 

[California]

Yeah. Bright! I used my welding hood when I tried out the carbon arc torch. I think the carbons (rods) I found on ebay were originally intended for a WWII searchlight. One of those big ones 5 ft wide.

A while later I found a second carbon arc torch in a thrift store, marked down to a couple of $. Bought it, don't know why. Still haven't used either for anything.

I've read these can't hurt a transformer welder but aren't recommended for a modern IGBT welder.