Types & Characteristics of Arc Welders, TIG Welders, MIG Welders, & Plasma Cutters

Arc Welders

Arc welding is nothing more than a process of joining two pieces of metal into a single solid piece. To achieve this, the heat of an electric arc is concentrated on the edges of two pieces of metal that are to be joined. The metal melts, while the edges are still molten, additional melted metal is added.

Arc welders generally come with a load of helpful features. Equipments with unlimited amperage control enable you to create professional welds. The lightweight and yet sturdily built models make this type of welder convenient to carry around and durable enough to withstand tough use. There are some models of arc welders that have thermostatic heat protection features and a roll bar design to give the unit full protection against damage.

MIG Welding Equipment

MIG Welding equipments are available in various sizes ranging from a small, portable 115v, 20 amp model to full sized shop automotive service equipment. MIG welders are widely known for high quality performance, though economically priced. You can exercise control over the quality of the weld with the aid of many different settings. MIG Welding equipments come with cold running temperatures. The machines also offer beneficial warranty options.

It is common knowledge that MIG welders use a wire feed and produce a lower heat. This prevents metal distortion and allows for a high quality job on thinner metals such as those involved in auto body work.

MIG welders feed a constant stream of wire with a pull of the trigger. You must be extra careful in choosing the consumables. Wire, for example, comes in easy-to-use flux core wire for a quick job on thicker materials, or a gas/solid wire combination for all other work.

TIG Welders

Most TIG welding machines come with several attractive features. With push button control panels, the machines are extremely user-friendly and some high-end models give you the option to easily adjust for repeatable weld cycles, start, and weld crater. To customize the shape and size of the bead, you can choose models with true square wave AC output and pulse mode. Buy models that have safety features like warning code circuitry and voltage protection.

One of the biggest advantages of TIG welder is it heats and joins the two metal pieces together without the need for filler materials. Most operators know that MIG welders join metals much faster than TIG welders. But, TIG welders produce greater degree of accuracy, so essential for certain types of jobs. The possibility of preventing cracked seals or damaging the weld is also significantly decreased in TIG machines.
Plasma Cutters

Some latest models of plasma cutters come with a host of features - single-dial controls for easy adjustments, pressure gauges and air pressure regulators - all aimed at cleaner and sharper cuts. Other features include parts-in-place indicators, line voltage compensation, and thermostatic protection. Above all, if you wish to do repetitive work with complicated cuts, CNC robotic interfaces will ensure consistent and precise cuts every time. Please know that latest types of plasma cutters have an inverter in place of the transformer.

With several different styles of plasma cutters available, your choice becomes wider. Duty cycle is a key factor in your buying decision. Generally, you will find that bigger machines can handle thicker metals and run longer to give it a bigger duty cycle. Also watch for the rating that is assigned to plasma cutters by the manufacturer. This will tell you how long each unit can cut through mild steel before needing to be cooled down.