K338-46 - Lincoln Electric 46ft Control to Head Extension Cable for NA-5S

Technical Overview: Lincoln Electric K338-46 Extension Cable

For professional welding operators and automation technicians utilizing Lincoln Electric's NA-5S automatic welding systems, the K338-46 Control to Head Extension Cable is a critical component for expanding system capabilities. This 46-foot (14-meter) assembly is designed to extend the standard 4-foot control-to-head cable, effectively maximizing the distance between your control box and the welding head. This is particularly useful in Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) applications where the welding head may be mounted on a manipulator or travel carriage high above the floor, while the control interface needs to remain at ground level for operator adjustments.

System Integration and Limitations
It is important to note the specific engineering constraints of the NA-5S system when using this extension. The K338-46 is designed to work with the standard 4-foot cable to reach a total length of 50 feet. The maximum total cable length for K335 cables must not exceed 50 feet. This limit is set to ensure that voltage drop and signal attenuation do not affect the performance of the welding head or the accuracy of the wire feed speed and voltage controls. The K338-46 takes you right to this limit, offering the maximum possible reach allowed by the manufacturer's specifications.

Compatibility and Application
This extension is fully compatible with the following Lincoln Electric components:

• K331
• K332
• K347-1
• K580-1
• K581-1

When installing, ensure that all connections are tight and secure to prevent intermittent faults. The cable carries multiple control signals, and a solid connection is vital for the precise operation of the automatic head. The heavy-duty jacket provides resistance against cuts, abrasion, and incidental contact with hot sparks, although standard care should be taken to route the cable away from direct heat sources and pinch points.

By using the K338-46, you gain the freedom to configure your welding cell for large vessels, structural beams, or pipe welding applications where the workpiece size demands significant separation between the operator station and the weld point. Trust in genuine Lincoln Electric parts to maintain the calibration and responsiveness of your automated systems.