Finding a welding machine that is most suitable for your welding application does not have to be complicated. We break it down into a few simple steps for you.
Welding Process
The most common welding processes are Stick, TIG, MIG and Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW). The MIG and FCAW processes require a constant voltage (CV) welding machine, while the manual welding processes such as Stick and TIG use a constant current (CC) welding machine. In general, the same CV machine can be used to perform both MIG and Flux Cored Arc Welding. Stick machines can be used for TIG welding, and higher output Stick machines can also be used for carbon arc gouging. A multiprocess welding machine offers both CC and CV outputs and can be used to perform all these welding processes.
Welding Amperage
Welding machines can have a welding amperage range of between 100-1000apms. How you decide on the correct welding amperage really depends on your welding application and process. As a general rule of thumb, a 280amps welding machine can cover most of the manual Stick and TIG welding applications. A 350amps welding machine is generally sufficient for most FCAW use cases.
Duty Cycle
A welding machine’s duty cycle represents how long it can weld continuously at a specific amperage and voltage over a 10-minute period. A welding machine with a 60% duty cycle at 320amps and 34volts can be used (at 320amps and 34volts) for 6 minutes continuously in a 10-minute period. If you are welding in a heavy industrial application, you should consider welding machines that have a 60-100% duty cycle rating.
Input Power
For jobsites where input power is not available, you will need to consider diesel engine welding machines that are self-powered. Such diesel engine welding machines not only provide one or more welding output terminals, but can also supply additional generator power (5kW-20kW) to run jobsite tools such as grinders, saws, lights etc. If input power is available, you will need to know if it is single-phase/three-phase, 50/60Hz and the voltage requirement (240V, 400V etc.). You will have to match the correct welding machine to this input power. However, note that selected Miller Electric welding machines have a feature called Auto-Line Technology which basically allows you to plug the welding machine into almost any type of input power around the world.
If you have any doubts, always reach out to your trusted welding supplier for further assistance.