With direct current (DC) the welding circuit can either be straight, or reverse polarity. When the machine is set for straight polarity, the current flows from the electrode to the weld surface and creates considerable heat in the metal. read more
When you use straight polarity ( electrode negative ) the electrons travel from the electrode to the work. Two thirds of the heat is directed to the work and one third to the electrode. Even though more heat is directed to the work the penetration is not a deep as with electrode positive. read more
Polarity in welding has to do with the direction of the current in the welding process. With direct current (DC) the welding circuit can either be straight, or reverse polarity. When the machine is set for straight polarity, the current flows from the electrode to the weld surface and creates considerable heat in the metal. read more
Well, basically these terms describe the polarity of the electrical current that is created by the welder and runs through the electrode. read more