What is the purpose of using clamps in welding?

The primary purpose of using clamps in welding is to hold joints firmly. Clamps help secure the materials in place during the welding process, ensuring that the pieces do not shift or move, which could lead to misalignment and weak welds. A stable setup is crucial for achieving consistent and strong welds, as it allows the welder to focus on the welding technique without worrying about the workpieces moving.

Other choices, while related to welding, do not align with the function of clamps. For example, increasing voltage is critical for achieving the appropriate energy output for the welding process but does not involve clamps. Measuring current relates to monitoring the electrical flow during welding, and cooling down the metal encompasses post-weld processes that are unrelated to the securing function of clamps. Thus, the use of clamps is fundamentally about maintaining the integrity of the joint throughout the welding procedure.