Many factors should be considered when purchasing a welder. Price should never be what leads a person to purchase one welder over another. Doing so often leaves them disappointed because the machine cannot do what they want or need. This problem can be avoided by considering the following factors when buying a welder.

Welding Machine Options

When buying a welder, a person will see many options offered today. Common options include stick welding machines, MIG welding machines, and TIG welding machines. Stick welding machines are cost-effective but offer the lowest conversion rate. They make use of flux. MIG welding machines, like the Lincoln Electric Welder 140, rely on a shielding gas rather than flux. They are excellent for welding small amounts of metal. TIG welders offer higher precision and quality weld joints. They are best used in the hands of experienced welders. Most people using a welder at home purchase a stick or MIG welder. Professionals, on the other hand, typically use TIG welders.

Material Options

Welding machines differ in terms of the materials they can weld. MIG welders are best used with steel, stainless steel, and aluminum alloys. Stick welders may also be used with steel and stainless steel. They are also good for cast iron, but cannot be used with aluminum alloys. A person who wants to weld a wider range of materials will need a TIG welder. These machines weld steel, stainless steel, aluminum alloys, chromoly, copper, brass, and exotic metals, such as titanium. However, they cannot be used with cast iron.

Maintenance Requirements

One thing a person should not overlook when choosing a welder is the maintenance requirements. Every welder requires maintenance and repairs. Before purchasing a welder, learn what maintenance is required, whether there is a local shop that can maintain and repair the device, and the average response time of the shop.

Furthermore, when researching welders, learn whether spare parts are easily found. Consumables are another thing to consider. High-quality consumables last longer, so a welder will save more in the long run by selecting this option. Most men and women find consumables offered by the manufacturer are the best choice.

Power Source

Any person purchasing a welder must consider how the machine will receive power. Gas-powered devices remain the preferred choice of many, as they can be used anywhere a person has gas. Welders powered by electricity require a source of this energy. This may be an electrical outlet, a generator, or another device capable of powering the unit. Battery-operated welders are powered by batteries, as the name suggests. Each option comes with benefits and drawbacks a person must consider to ensure they get the right device for their needs. A reputable supplier can be of help in narrowing the choices, so don’t hesitate to ask.

Cost of Accessories

Men and women often look at the cost of the welder when making a purchase without stopping to add up the cost of consumables and accessories, such as safety gear. They then find they are spending more than they anticipated and they aren’t happy with the purchase as a result. By taking the time to research the cost of these items before purchasing a machine, a person is less likely to find themselves in this situation.

Experienced and novice welders alike need to consider these factors when purchasing a new machine. Doing so ensures the right choice is made the first time. If help is needed, talk with the supplier. They happily help customers find the right welder for their needs.