With the welding industry taking a leap in the 21st century, it is no wonder that the global demand for welding equipment is increasing. According to the latest statistics, the weld-equipment market size was valued at USD 19 billion in 2018 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of
2% from 2019 to 202 As a result, the challenge of finding the best welding machine has never been harder.
In this article, we’ll discuss what qualities should be considered to judge the best welding machine in terms of its performance and cost, so that you can make a sound decision when purchasing a welding machine for your next big project.
What Is The Best Welding Machine?
Welding is a process used to join two pieces of metal together by melting and fusing them.It requires precise equipment, with the most popular being an arc welding machine. As such, it’s no surprise that there are so many welding machines on the market, from cheap hobby welders to industrial-grade welders. If you’re wondering what the best welding machine for your project is, our guide will help you find the perfect one.
Types of Welding Machines
There are a variety of welding processes you can use to join metal. Here are some of the most popular welding processes:- MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding: Highly recommended for beginners, this process uses inert gases like argon and helium to protect the weld area from oxidation. It’s a fast process, making it ideal for both fabrication and general construction.
- TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding: This process uses a tungsten electrode and an inert gas to create precise and clean welds. It’s known for being challenging to learn, but it produces strong and reliable welds.
It’s frequently used in aerospace and automotive industries.
- Stick welding: This is the simplest and most economical of all welds. It uses a hard electrode that’s coated with a flux to protect the welding arc.
Although it’s an inexpensive and straightforward welding machine to use, it’s not as precise and clean as other welding machines.
- Flux-cored arc welding: Much like shield metal arc welding, this process uses a power supply and electrode to create an arc.
The difference is that it uses a special core in the electrode, which is intended to melt additional filler material.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Welding Machine
Once you’ve identified the best welding technique for your project, you need to find the right machine. Here are some factors to consider before you buy a welding machine:- Amperage: The amperage controls the amount of power that goes through the welding machine. Low amperage is suitable for light projects, while high amperage is good for thicker and stronger metals.
- Input voltage: This controls the amount of power that goes into the welder and affects the amperage. Stick welders have a wider range of input voltage, so you can use them in more conditions.
- Portability: MIG and TIG welders are usually heavy and bulky. If you need to work in multiple places, opt for a smaller, more portable machine.
- Safety features: Most welders come with additional safety features such as over voltage protection, water-sensitive seals, and capacitors. Make sure to check before buying a welder.