Welding

[Mirage Gecko]

I want to do some electric welding to some stainless tubing around the davit area on the back of our cat.It is a glass boat and still in the water.
Do I need to disconnect all the batteries prior to welding?
Chris

[CPseudonym]

Unless it is somehow bonded to your electrical system no.

[Mirage Gecko]

Sorry Craig but I am not sure what you mean by bonded.
Chris

[Hoofsmit]

I think CP means, if there is a way the current could contact a ground wire to the batteries or a conductor of some sort. ( make sure the backing plates have no contacts) any solar pannels or other electrical fittings on them ? Etc
Grp will not carry a current for welding purposes.
But personally , I would disconnect any way, it's not worth the risk

[Mirage Gecko]

I know it is a must do on a car or truck but cannot seem to get a definitive answer regarding a glass boat.
I've got solar,aerials ,lights and wind generator up top of the davits so I guess I will just disconnect the batteries as a precaution but was somehow hoping it would not be needed as the placement of the three batteries makes it a job not to look forward too.
Can't say I have heard the term bonded here in Aus related to electrics but is the term similar to earthed?
Thanks All
Hris

[Hoofsmit]

Yep earthed is what I would call it, but some electrical pro will correct us !
Just remember that if the current finds it way into you boats circuits you might arc some of it.
Can't see why you would need to remove the batteries, just take the negative clamp off?
I would be more concerned with protecting the fittings on the Davits, even if you don't want to remove them just break metal to metal contacts with a non conductor , insulation tape or a bit of thin rubber mat
Grp won't conduct, (carbon fibre might... I wouldn't chance it) but mind the splatter!!! ...Makes a hell of a mess on gel coat !
Happy welding

[CPseudonym]

Earthed is a term you would be more familiar with. I posted from the smart phone app and countries of origin do not show there.

With all that mounted to your rails I'd disconnect the batteries for sure, no sense taking a potentially expensive chance.

[Mirage Gecko]

Thanks Craig