What Is An ARC Welder?

MMA (Manual Metal Arc) or simply Arc welder is a type of arc welding machine that uses electricity to create an electric arc between an electrode and the workpiece to join or fuse metals together. MMA arc welder is also known as a ‘stick welder' and used for 'shielded metal arc welding (SMAW).

It is an electrical transformer that delivers a high level of electrical current at the output. When the electrode is in close proximity to the part to be welded, it creates a strong electric arc and causes a short circuit. This melts the metal parts and the electrode, joining them together.

The electrode consists of a metal core and a protective layer to prevent oxidation. The core is used as the filler metal for welding, while the protective layer must be removed once the weld has cooled. Electrodes are consumables that are used for specific metals and tasks. The composition and size of the electrodes should be suitable for the metal and work being performed.

MMA arc welders are versatile and can be used to weld a wide range of metals and thicknesses, making them suitable for various applications. They are also typically compact and portable and do not require a shielding gas which makes them ideal for fieldwork and remote locations. They also have a safety feature that stops the current if the electrode gets stuck.

MMA welding itself is relatively easy to learn and less sensitive to surface cleanliness compared to some other welding processes which makes it ideal for beginners and hobbyists.

What can you weld with an MMA arc welder?

An MMA arc welder is versatile and can be used to weld a variety of metals and materials. You can weld carbon steel, stainless steel, mild steel, alloy steels, cast iron, aluminium, and some non-ferrous metals e.g. copper and bronze using specific electrodes. MMA arc welders are widely used in construction for tasks like welding structural steel, reinforcing bars, and fabricating metal components. MMA welders are also commonly used for farm equipment repairs, such as fixing fences, gates, and agricultural machinery.

Can you TIG weld with a MMA Arc welder?

Yes you can perform TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding with some of the MMA arc welders, but not all. You can TIG weld if the arc welding machine has additional features like lift-arc ignition. Many of the arc welders offered by Engweld can be used as lift start TIG for DC purpose only.

The following MMA arc welders have the lift TIG feature for TIG welding: Esab Rogue 150i, 180i, 200i, Lincoln Electric Bester 155-ND and 210-ND, Invertec 400SX, and Engweld X-Pert S161DV.

Please note if you are going to TIG weld with an MMA arc welder then you will need a welding gas and a gas regulator.