Arc, Stick & MMA welders

We are a key distributor for all leading brands of arc and mma welding machines including ESAB, Lincoln Electric & Bester. Many of our Arc welders can be used as lift start TIG for DC purpose only. Technical advice and on-site demonstrations are available from all our sales centres. Full service and repair facilities provide rapid response to breakdowns.

How to Choose an ARC welder?

When it comes to choosing an ARC welder there are certain criteria that each type meets, and unfortunately, there is not one single process of welding that is suitable for all applications.

You should always take into consideration:

• The intended use, is it for occasional maintenance, production or for high quality welding?
• What type of material will you be welding?
• How thick is the material you will be welding?
• What power supply do you have access to?
• What is the machine’s duty cycle, and how would this affect the work you intend to do?

By answering all these questions, you are sure to find the ARC welder that most suits your needs.

What is an Arc Welder?

Also known as a ‘stick welder’, an arc welder is an electrical transformer that delivers a high level of electrical current at the output. By bringing the electrode close to the part to be welded, a short circuit and high-temperature electric arc occur which locally melts the metal parts to be welded as well as the electrode itself. 

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. The electrodes are therefore consumables whose composition and diameter must be adapted depending on the metal you are working with and the work you are carrying out.

Arc inverter welders are compact and lightweight, allowing for a better welding quality thanks to their precise power regulation and are generally equipped with a safety device that cuts off the current in case the electrode is sticking.

Main Points:

• Manual welder.
• Inverter technology.
• Coated electrodes.
• For minor repairs rather than large jobs.

Arc Welding key questions:

What is Hot Start? – Hot Start is a special feature for MMA or stick electrode welding. The machine delivers a peak of current when striking the arc, which significantly increases the ease of starting electrodes. Especially useful for an imperfect surface job or when using ‘difficult to run’ electrodes.

What is Arc Force? – Sometimes referred to as ‘Dig’ or ‘Arc Control’, it is a similar feature to Hot Start, except that it operates during the welding process. It greatly assists in stabilising the arc, preventing it from cutting out during the weld and preventing the electrode from sticking, as when it senses a short circuit the machine will deliver a peak of current.

What is Anti-Stick? – Anti-stick is a feature whereby the welding machine will sense when the electrode is sticking, where it will collapse the welding current to prevent the electrode from continuing to weld itself to the job, allowing it to be easily detached or broken free.