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Grounding with Cadweld: Regular vs. Plus Kits

When it comes to grounding there is little room for error. The difference between a high quality weld and low quality weld can be the difference between life and death. This week we want to talk about CadweldÂ Grounding KitsÂ and the benefits they can provide. Our Gear ExpertsÂ®Â have put together the need to know differences between the regular and plus kits.

Grounding with Cadweld

Youâ€™ve got a job coming up where you are going to need to ground some cables and youâ€™re looking for the best solution. Here at GME Supply, weâ€™ve got a few different options that can get the job done. We have the Cadweld Plus Electronic Exothermic Welding KitÂ and the Regular Cadweld Exothermic Welding Kit. Each of these kits provides a range of molds, cleaning supplies, and weld metal shots.

The Plus vs. The Regular

Letâ€™s start with a side by side comparison of the kits. As mentioned above each of the kits provides many of the same things. The big difference is how the units work together to create the weld and promote safety at the same time.

The Shots

The plus kit features convenient â€œk cupsâ€. These shots of weld metal are prepackaged in a cup that fits nicely into the top of the mold. The best thing about these is that all you have to do is put it in the mold. You donâ€™t have to open the cup or pour the weld metal into the mold, saving you time and materials. One-shot equals one weld.

The regular kit, on the other hand, features traditional shots of weld metal. These shots come in a plastic tube with a cap. You have to remove the cap and pour the weld metal into the mold. This can increase the amount of time spent doing this task in addition to the accidental waste of materials. Not only that, but sometimes one shot isnâ€™t enough to get the weld metal to the top of the mold for ignition â€“ which means you have to add more weld metal. One-shot does not always equal one weld.

The Igniter

The plus kit features an electronic igniter. The electronic igniter attaches to the shot (k cup) on the little tab at the top of the cup. This ensures a solid connection. The igniter allows you to put a larger distance between you and the mold providing added safety. To use the igniter simply turn on the switch and your weld metal will ignite and weld your grounding connection. The regular kit features a flint igniter. This is your traditional igniter where you press a button to strike the flint and the sparks light the weld metal. With this igniter, you have to be extremely close to the mold which can increase risk on the job-site.

Weld Quality

The final comparison is weld quality. Because of the way the plus kit works there will be a higher weld quality. With the shot being contained in the k-cup you have a much higher chance of achieving 100% ignition. With the regular kit, on the other hand, the weld metal can get separated when being poured into the mold and reduce the amount of metal that is ignited. For more information about grounding with Cadweld Kits or if you need help choosing what is best for you click hereÂ to talk to one of our Gear ExpertsÂ®.