Arc Welders

About Arc Welders

Arc welders are essential power tools that use an electrical arc to generate intense heat for joining metal components together. Also known as stick or MMA (Manual Metal Arc) welders, these machines create a bond between metals by melting the workpieces at the point of contact, producing strong, permanent welds suitable for construction, fabrication, repair work, and maintenance projects. Arc welding equipment is valued for its portability, affordability, and ability to work effectively in outdoor conditions where other welding methods might struggle.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks quality arc welding machines from Draper, offering various amperage ratings from 130A to 180A to suit different applications. Modern inverter-based arc welders operate on standard 240V domestic or industrial power supplies, making them accessible for both workshop and on-site applications. Whether you're working with mild steel, stainless steel, or cast iron, these welders offer a reliable solution for creating robust welds in various thicknesses.

Applications

Arc welders serve a diverse range of users and applications across professional trades and DIY projects:

• Fabricators and metalworkers constructing steelwork, gates, railings, and structural components
• Agricultural engineers and farmers repairing machinery, trailers, and farm equipment on-site
• Maintenance technicians in manufacturing, construction, and industrial facilities
• Automotive professionals working on chassis repairs, roll cages, and exhaust systems
• Construction site workers requiring portable welding capabilities for structural steel installation
• Plant operators and mechanics maintaining heavy equipment and machinery
• DIY enthusiasts tackling garden projects, vehicle restoration, and general metalwork
• Engineering students and apprentices learning fundamental welding techniques

Choosing The Right Arc Welders

Amperage Output: Consider the maximum thickness of metal you'll typically weld. For general DIY work and light fabrication up to 6mm mild steel, a 130-140A welder suffices. Professional tradespeople working with materials up to 10mm thick should consider models offering 160-180A output. Remember that UK domestic circuits are typically rated at 13A, which may limit options for very high-powered machines without dedicated wiring.

Duty Cycle: Professional users performing continuous welding work need machines with higher duty cycles—ideally 60% or above at commonly used amperages. Occasional users can manage with lower duty cycles, provided they allow adequate cooling time between welds.

Portability: Modern inverter-based arc welders from MyToolShed.co.uk are significantly lighter than older transformer models, typically weighing 5-15kg. Turbo arc welders feature enhanced cooling systems that balance performance with compact dimensions, ideal for site mobility.

Features: Look for user-friendly features such as infinitely variable amperage control, hot start function for easier arc initiation, anti-stick technology, and thermal overload protection. Digital displays provide accurate current readings, whilst analogue dials offer simple, robust control.

Safety Information

Arc welding involves significant hazards requiring proper precautions. Always wear appropriate PPE including a welding helmet with correct shade filter (BS EN 379 standard), leather welding gloves, flame-resistant clothing, and safety boots. Never look at the arc without proper eye protection—arc eye causes painful corneal damage.

Ensure adequate ventilation when welding, especially indoors, as welding produces hazardous fumes. Arc welders must be properly earthed and comply with BS 7671 wiring regulations. Never weld in wet conditions or whilst standing on damp surfaces. Remove flammable materials from the work area and keep a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires nearby, as sparks can travel up to 10 metres.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I run an arc welder from a standard domestic socket?

Most arc welders up to approximately 140A will operate from a standard UK 13A socket on a 240V supply, though you should verify the machine's current draw and ensure the circuit isn't shared with other high-power appliances. More powerful welders (160A and above) may require a dedicated 16A or 32A circuit installed by a qualified electrician.

How thick can I weld with a 140A arc welder?

A 140A arc welder can effectively weld mild steel up to approximately 6mm thickness in a single pass, which covers most DIY and light fabrication requirements including garden furniture, trailer repairs, and general steelwork. For thicker materials, you can use multiple passes or consider upgrading to a higher amperage model.

Why does my electrode keep sticking to the metal?

Electrode sticking typically occurs when the amperage is set too low for the electrode diameter, the arc length is too short, or the travel speed is too slow. Increase the current slightly, maintain a consistent arc gap of approximately 2-3mm, and ensure your earth clamp has good contact with clean metal. Models with hot start and anti-stick functions help prevent this common issue.