Drawn arc weld studs form strong, vibration-resistant welds that provide a tight seal against water, oil, air, or gas leaks at the weld point. Also known as ring weld studs, they are available in larger diameters than CD (capacitor discharge) weld studs and can be welded onto thick materials. A stud is loaded into a compatible drawn arc stud welding gun, and the gun is connected to a drawn arc stud welder that supplies current to the stud. An arc is created between the stud and the workpiece, and the heat from the arc melts and fuses the base of the stud and a small area on the workpiece to permanently bond the stud to the workpiece. A ceramic ring on the base of the stud shields the arc, focuses the arc's heat, and contains the molten weld pool. Once the weld has cooled, the ring is broken away, leaving behind a smooth fillet at the stud's base. Weld studs are threaded fasteners that take less time to install than fasteners that require drilling, tapping, punching, or screwing.