Welding machine types

admin

Im confused with stick welding machine types. Tell me if im right or wrong.Transformers - 415w Welding machines that can be turned down to lower watts.Rectifiers - A machine that changes the polarity AC to DCInverters - Not sure yet Generators - Diesel or Fuel opperated welder.Which ones are more common? Am I missing anything?
Reply:Originally Posted by FloundersTransformers - 415w Welding machines that can be turned down to lower watts.
Reply:Very good explanation. Just for information purposes I would like to add that a rectifier unit can be connected to virtually any transformer based ac machine such as Lincolns AC-225 to get dc output from it. I have only used a couple of these units and my experience has been that while smoother than ac they don't match those with the rectification built in.The difference between art and craft is the quality of the workmanship. I am an artist.
Reply:Thanks for that Tensaiteki! Just wondering also if SMAW uses hand piece +
Reply:Originally Posted by Jolly RogerVery good explanation. Just for information purposes I would like to add that a rectifier unit can be connected to virtually any transformer based ac machine such as Lincolns AC-225 to get dc output from it. I have only used a couple of these units and my experience has been that while smoother than ac they don't match those with the rectification built in.
Reply:Tensaiteki: good job on the info, all this is explained in my textbook but it's nice to hear it from another source.Man it would be cool to run a diesel engine driven welder off bio-diesel!
Reply:One thing I see Tensaiteki say that a lot of folks use for shorthand is to refer to inverter vs. transformer.  Like he says, they both contain a transformer, but the inverter machines use a very small one by comparison.http://www.millerwelds.com/education...rticles31.htmlThe article above gives a bit of info about the difference between the "big transformer" machines and the "little transformer" inverter-based machines.Smithboy...if it ain't broke, you ain't tryin'.
Reply:Originally Posted by TensaitekiStraight transformers will only output alternating current (AC). This limits you to relatively few choices in filler electrodes (the actual "welding sticks").
Reply:Originally Posted by CruizerSure you can add a rectifier, though without a stabilizer it'll weld really horrible, 1 step forward and 8 steps backwards