MMA Arc Welders

We distribute top brands of Arc welders, including ESAB, Lincoln Electric, and Bester. Technical advice and on-site demonstrations are available from all our sales centres around the UK. Full service and repair facilities are also available to provide rapid response to breakdowns.

At Engweld, you can find everything you need for MMA arc welding. We also supply a huge selection of welding electrodes and welding rods and welding electrode quivers and ovens to get the optimum performance out of your arc welding. 

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. 

Main Points:

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

Arc Welder setup

Before you start, you must ensure the arc welding machine is in good working condition and properly grounded using an earth clamp.

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

Choose the appropriate electrode (stick) based on the type of metal you are welding and your arc welder’s recommended settings. Then insert the electrode 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. 

How to Choose an ARC welder?

When choosing an ARC welder, you need to think about specific criteria that each type meets. No single welding process works for all applications.

You should always take into consideration:

• The intended use, is it for occasional maintenance, production, or for high-quality welding? You must determine the type of welding projects you will be working on e.g. home repairs, automotive, heavy fabrication, or hobby projects. You will also need to know if you need a portable or a stationary welding machine. 
• What type of material will you be welding? Consider the type of materials you will be welding e.g. steel, aluminium, or stainless steel. 
• How thick is the material you will be welding? Make sure your arc welder is powerful enough for the welding application. 
• What power supply do you have access to? Consider the power source available in your workspace. Arc welders are normally available in 110V, 220V, and 3-phase. Choose a welder that matches your available power source, or be prepared to install the necessary electrical circuit. 
• What is the machine’s duty cycle, and how would this affect the work you intend to do? Match the duty cycle to your expected usage; higher duty cycles are suitable for professional welders. 
• What amperage range do you require? Ensure the welding machine’s amperage range is suitable for your welding needs. Different projects may require varying amperage settings. Look for a welder with adjustable controls, allowing you to fine-tune settings like amperage and voltage. 
• Other features to consider may include built-in safety mechanisms, digital displays, pre-programmed settings for ease of use, warranty, and brand reputation.

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

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. 

Contact us

If you have any queries or need help choosing the right arc welder for your application then please contact us and speak to one of our experts.