Mechanical Engineering - Workshop Technology - Discussion

The correct answer is work is connected to the negative terminal and the electrode holder to the positive terminal.

Straight polarity, also known as direct current electrode positive (DCEP), is a welding setup where:

- The workpiece is connected to the negative terminal of the power source
- The electrode holder is connected to the positive terminal of the power source

This setup is commonly used for shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), and flux-cored arc welding (FCAW).

Here's why the other options are incorrect:

- Work connected to the positive terminal and the electrode holder to the negative terminal: This is the reverse polarity (DCEN).
- Work connected to the positive terminal and the electrode holder is earthed: This is not a standard welding setup.
- Work connected to the negative terminal and the electrode holder is earthed: This is not a standard welding setup.

=> Polarity is important in welding as it affects the arc characteristics, penetration, and overall quality of the weld.