Arc Welders

Arc Welding Machines

MMA, Arc or stick welding is one of the most common welding processes whereby an incredibly superhot arc is created using an arc welder, which is hot enough to melt most metals and cause two metals to join together. The reason these machines are also referred to as stick welders is that the process requires an electrode rod (or 'stick') to also melt into the weld pool to produce a strong bond once cooled. These consumable electrodes are a vital part of the process, producing a shielding gas or slag which protects the weld.

Arc Welders at Engweld

We offer a great selection of arc welding machines here at Engweld, ready to help you improve or begin your arc welding journey. From top-of-the-range MMA welders suitable for industry welding to simple stick welders ideal for domestic hobby welding, our collection includes the full spectrum. As with all welding machines, each Arc welder has its own benefits and features, and its important to check product specifications before purchase.

Some arc welders offer a higher welding current and amperage than others, while some provide a high welding speed and duty cycle, which can help with overall welding efficiency. Many of our MMA welding machines also benefit from inverter technology which is a game-changer compared to traditional transformer-based arc welders. An inverter arc welder works by converting AC power supply into DC, which is then converted back into a super-high frequency alternating current and filtered to create a highly-stable and precise welding arc. This inverter technology again helps with the end weld accuracy and quality.

Another feature to look out for when choosing your arc welder from our collection above is portability. Having a lightweight, versatile and portable arc welder can be highly beneficial in many different industrial settings and inverter MMA welders have a significant advantage in this area due to their lightweight nature compared to transformer stick welding machines. This portability helps the welder adopt various different welding positions easily, which is ideal for repair welding, for example.

Whichever arc welder you choose from our broad range, you can be assured that it will be able to create the super-hot electrical arc required to melt and bond your base material, with help from the electrode rod and the shielding gas or vapor it creates. Your MMA welder will come complete with the required welding leads and other equipment essential to the machine. We can also supply the vital arc welding consumables like consumable electrodes needed for the stick welding process, giving you everything you need to engage in this popular welding method.

Feel free to get in contact with our in-house welding experts for any further information or advice on the arc welding machines we stock or read our helpful MMA welding guides below.

The Best Arc Welder Brands

Every arc welder you see here at Engweld is of a guaranteed quality, thanks to the leading manufacturers we supply. Big names like ESAB, Lincoln Electric, Bester and Parweld have been producing and perfecting MMA welders for a number of years, with every machine developed to ensure the best possible weld quality. Each manufacturer brings their own technology and features, so it's best to read the individual product description ahead of purchase to ensure it is suitable for your intended arc welding processes.

Categories related to Arc Welders:

• Welding Rods
• Electrode Holders
• Wire Scratch Brushes
• Chipping Hammers
• Welding Rod Ovens & Quivers
• Welding Cable
• Welding Gloves
• Welder Generators

How To Set Up An Arc Welder

Before you start, you must ensure the arc welding machine is in good working condition and properly grounded using an earth clamp. You of course also need mains supply to your arc welder.

Clean the metal surface on the workpiece to remove any dirt, rust or contaminants using a wire brush or angle grinder. Secure the base material in a suitable position for welding using a welding clamp.

Choose the appropriate consumable electrodes (stick) based on the type of metal you are welding and your arc welder’s recommended settings. Then insert the electrode rod into the electrode holder and secure it tightly. 

Set the right current (amperage) on the arc welding machine according to the electrode manufacturer’s recommendations. The current affects the weld’s quality and penetration. If you're using an arc welder with hot start technology, it should increase output current if the arc length becomes too short.