Description

Welding machines or welding guns or welders are among the most essential tools for a welding professional. Welding machines generate heat that melts metal parts, so that these parts can be joined. However, there is no single welding machine that is suitable for all welding projects.

Types of welding techniques

Before you chose a welding machine, you must know which kind of welding technique you will apply. Each welding techniques requires a specific type of welder.

1. Stick Welding/SMAW

Stick welding uses an electric current flowing from a gap between metal and welding stick (arc welding electrode).

• works with most alloys or joints
• can be used indoors and outdoors, and in drafty areas
• works with rusty and dirty metals
• good for thicker metals
• economical

2. MIG Welding/GMAW

This technique uses a wire welding electrode on a spool that is fed at a constant speed. The arc is created by an electrical current between base metal and wire.

• easiest to learn
• high welding speeds
• works well with thin and thick metals
• cleaner welds with no slag
• same equipment can be used for flux-cored arc welding

3. Flux-Cored Arc Welding

This process also uses a wire electrode that is constantly fed, though it does not need a shielding gas. The flux-cored wire shields the arc instead.

• works well outdoors and in windy conditions
• works well on dirty and rusty metals
• good for out-of-position welding
• deep penetration for welding thick areas
• high metal deposition rate

4. TIG Welding/GTAW

This welding process uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode. A constant current feeds energy crosses the arc. A shielding gas protects the weld area.

• works well with thin sections of alloy steel, stainless steel, and non-ferrous metals like aluminum, magnesium, and copper alloys
• high quality, precise welds
• weld beads that look good
• allows for heat input adjustment while welding with a foot control