Duty cycle is the amount of time a welder can run continuously before it needs to rest and cool down.
For example, 90A @ 30% means a machine is capable of outputting 90A continuously for 3 mins and then needs
7 mins to rest before welding again. The ambient temperature of your welding environment also plays a big
role in the duty cycle of the machine. Welding in warmer climates may result in lower duty cycles.
Welding amperage is the amount of output it can produce. Higher amperages mean the machine is capable of
penetrating thicker pieces of metal. Higher amperage machines also generally mean higher duty cycles.
A multi-process welder is the latest technology in welding. It combines a MIG welder, a Stick welder,
and a TIG welder giving a fabricator the opportunity to tackle almost any job. Combine a multi-process welder
with a spool gun or purchase an AC TIG capable multi-process machine for aluminum applications for a truly
complete welding solution.
Shielding gas is required for some welding operations. In Stick and Self Shielded Flux Cored welding,
flux on the outer coating of the electrode (Stick) or inside the core of the wire (Self Shielded Flux Core)
is used to protect the molten puddle from the atmosphere. In MIG and TIG welding, flux is not used which means
the shielding gas is used to protect the molten weld puddle from the atmosphere.In some cases, combining an
inert gas like Ar with an active gas like CO2 helps increase the weld’s penetration. Proper precautions
should be taken to ensure wind from the outside or a nearby fan does not affect the flow of shielding gas or
else you may get porosity in your weld.
Arc welding produces both sparks and UV light. You need to protect yourself from both. Welding helmets block your face,
neck, and head while arm sleeves and pants protect your arms and legs from harmful UV light. Additionally, since your
hands are close to the welding arc during the welding process, you should weld with gloves designed for your application.
MIG and Stick welding gloves are thicker because the heat generated, and the amount of spatter generated is greater.
TIG welding gloves are designed to be lighter to allow for maximum manual dexterity.
In addition to a welding machine and helmet, you may need the following accessories to weld:
- Welding electrode or wire: The filler material used to join the metal pieces together.
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Welding rod or filler metal: Depending on the type of welding you are doing, you may need to
use filler metal in the form of rods or wire.
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Gas cylinder: If you’re using a MIG or TIG welder, you’ll need a cylinder of shielding gas
to protect the weld from contamination.Harbor Freight Tools doesn’t sell welding gas.
- Welding gloves: to protect your hands from heat and sparks.
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Protective clothing: Welding can generate intense heat, so you should wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved
shirt and pants, to reduce the risk of burns.
- Chipping hammer and wire brush: Used to remove slag or debris from the surface of the weld.
- Ground Clamps: These clamp to the metal you’re welding to complete the electrical circuit.
- Welding magnets and holders: These grip metal and hold it at the angle you need to work safely and efficiently.