What Can I Weld with a 70 Amp Arc Welder?
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With many welding equipment materials on the market and the different welding types, it can be challenging to identify what you really need. This short document will cover everything there is to know about arc welding.
Remember, arc welding is a broad topic, which both MIG and TIG (the most popular welding techniques) fall under.
The name Arc welding gives it all away, and just like any other form of welding, it is used to join two different parts. The materials must be conductive (materials that allow electricity to flow through).
On the other hand, there are so many types of welding machines on the market. Some are portable, others are stationary, others are industrial, and others are best for light welding.
Choosing what you need must be defined by usage, flexibility, cost, and desired welding goals.
Many people prefer portable arc welders because they offer convenience. In other words, it can be used on automotive sheets, bent iron, or boat trailer.
Before diving deep into 70 Amp arc welders and what they can do, it is wise to learn more about arc welding.
See also:
- Best Stick Welder Guide and Review
- Can You Stick Weld Metal While it is Wet?
- Can You Weld Brass with A Stick Welder?
- Can You Use A Stick Welder for Auto Body Work?
- Is MIG Welding Stronger Than Stick Welding?
- Do You Need an AC Stick Welder?
- Best arc welder for home use
What Is Arc Welding?
Also known as stick welding, arc welding is a technique used to join two pieces of metal using a charged electric arc forming between the electrode and work-piece.
The arc is protected by either a flux or inert gases. The arc produces high heat, which melts the metal, allowing them to join before cooling. On average, the temperature in arc welding can go up to about 6500˚F.
Back in the 19th century, the first arc welding technique was perfected and used greatly during World War II to build aircraft and ships.
With the growth of welding demands, different and bettered types of arc welding have come up and used in building different steel structures, and even industrial construction projects.
The good news is that arc welding equipment is fairly affordable to many people.
Welding equipment includes an AC machine, electrode holder, a set of electrodes, connecting power cables, chipping hammer, earthing clamps, and wire brushes.
Safety is a must and highly important. They include equipment like safety goggles, welding gloves, sleeves, and welding helmet.
Types Of Arc Welding
As mentioned above, there are many different types of arc welding, including flux-cored welding, submerged arc welding, TIG welding, shielded metal arc, and MIG welding.
All these techniques or types apply the same principle; the creation of electric charged arc between the electrode and the work-piece.
TIG Welding
TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas Welding), which is also identified as GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding), is a form of welding technique that uses tungsten-based electrodes to create an arc. An inert gas mixture protects the weld pool or tungsten.
MIG Welding
This type is the most popular and also goes by the name GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding). This welding technique involves a metal wire, which is heated and melted using an electrically charged arc.
Flux-Welding
This is a welding type that uses a hollow electrode, which is filled with flux material. The rest of the connection or mechanism is similar to a MIG welder. The filler wire is continuously fed into the gun.
Submerged Arc Welding
The name of this welding technique says it all. It applies a technique whereby the electric arc is submerged in a layer of flux. The flux is electrically conductive when molten, offering a pathway for current flow.
The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Arc Welding
The durability and effectiveness have made arc welding machines popular in different industries. However, just like everything in the world, these machines have their advantages and disadvantages as well. These include:
The Advantages
- Portable: They are efficient and flexible to be used in different jobs
- Affordable: They are quite affordable
- Cleanliness: When it comes to job delivery, they deliver a clean result, strong welds, and effective on dirty work surfaces
The Disadvantages
- Skill: Arc welding demands a skilled hand and an experienced worker.
- Efficiency: Some types of arc welding produce a lot of waste.
Why Go For A 70 Amp Arc Welder And What Can They Do?
70 Amp arc welders are small and portable. They can be carried in your truck and can be used to weld light spots. This machine allows its users to attach electrodes of their choice and the earth clamp.
It is a perfect machine for doing little repairs around your home. Let us not forget its durability and affordability benefits.
Since they are lightweight, they can be transported with ease, and they are very easy to use.
Although it might be challenging for a beginner to change the temperature and arc welding setting according to the material, with time, they will learn how to operate everything.
In fact, experts recommend beginners to start with a 220 Amp or MIC arc welder, before moving to lower Amp welders.
This is because low Amp welders demand more time compared to an average MIG welder. In other words, they need patience while welding.
The Relationship Between Thickness And Amps
The way to set the settings on a welder is something most are not taught in schools. This is something that is gained with experience.
As such, a professional can tell you the perfect welding setting by simply observing the weld pool. It is important to note that every setting has its own weld pool.
If there is too much spatter, then the temperature created is too high, which means you need to set it correctly. If you are a beginner, different charts can guide you regarding the best temperature for different materials.
It is important to note that material type and thickness will affect the Amperage used. For example, if you are working on a thick metal sheet, then you will need a higher amp.
Therefore, 70 Amp welders are perfect for stainless steel or mild welding, most preferably a 1/8-inch-thick material. If you are working on thicker metal sheets, then a MIG welder is best.
What Can A 70 Amp Welder Weld?
A 70 Amp arc welder is capable of welding stainless steel of 18 gauge or 1/8 inch thick.
As such, it can be used to weld:
• Shaped iron
• Boat trailer
• Vehicle sheet metal
It is a useful tool to have at home because it can be used to weld almost anything, as long as you take into consideration the thickness and material type.
Keep in mind that there are so many 70-amp arc welders on the market today, with a different price range. Many of these machines come with additional features, such as overheating protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Cost Of A 70 Amp Arc Welder?
The best quality ranges somewhere between $100 – $200. When investing in a 70 Amp welder, it is normal to look at the price. However, price on its own should not be the only factor; there are other factors such as the longevity of the machine, features, and others. Remember, the more features a welding machine has, the higher the price range will be. It is better to invest in a top-quality welding machine at a higher price range rather than a poor one at a lower price. This is because, in the long run, the cheaper option will be expensive for you, compared to a top-quality one.
Can I Make A 70 Amp Welder At Home?
Yes, if you know-how. If you know the technical side of welding and welding machines, there is no doubt that you can make one at home. However, if you do not have the knowledge and simply rely on YouTube Videos and Tutorials, PLEASE DON’T TRY. Making a welding machine is tricky, and any error could spell disaster. In other words, mistakes could lead to electrocution, fire, and in the worst-case scenario, death.
How Many Amps Arc Welding Machines Are Available For Consumers?
Several for consumers 70, 110, and 220 Amp. The truth is that there are so many arc welding machines on the market. However, the best Amp options for an ordinary consumer are a 70 Amp welder, a 110 Amp welder, and a 220 Amp welder. Anything beyond this is classified for industrial use. Remember, the higher the Amperage, the thicker the material it can handle. As such, if you handle thicker metals at home, then you should consider a 220 Amp welder.
How Do I Identify If My Arc Welder’s Electrode Is Too Hot Or Too Cold?
Practice and observe the weld pool. Experienced professionals can tell the temperature of the electrode by simply looking at the weld pool. As such, if you are experiencing too much patter, this means that the temperature is too high. If you are experiencing a bulky weld bead, this indicates a low temperature. The best way to identify this is through practice and weld pool observation. Adjust the temperature accordingly.
Which Factors Affect Amperage In An Arc Welder?
Type of metal and the thickness. Both metal type and thickness will affect the Amperage used. For example, the Amperage used on metal is not the same used on aluminum.
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