a/c or d/c arc

[jools1010]

Hi, I have a chance to buy a a/c welder generator however reading a welding book I have it states that a d/c arc welder is better as its easier to use and produces a smoother weld.

Is a/c in the real world a real disadvantage? are the weld dreadful? is it hard to strick an arc? also are can I use the same rods as for d/c?

I have mig for light but I need a mobile unit for light / heavy machinery

Thanks

Jools

 

[Drains]

Hi, I have a chance to buy a a/c welder generator however reading a welding book I have it states that a d/c arc welder is better as its easier to use and produces a smoother weld.

Is a/c in the real world a real disadvantage? are the weld dreadful? is it hard to strick an arc? also are can I use the same rods as for d/c?

No, no, no and usually, yes.

Ac is ok for most rods and most applications, and is easy enough to use. DC sounds smoother, runs a bit smoother, and gives the versatility of electrode positive or negative (neg on thin stuff and pipe roots, for instance).

Most rods will run ac, but you need to check the open circuit voltage. If your genny has an ocv of 70 volts or more, you can run most rods. If it's more like 50v, then there will be some limitations (6011's won't run, some stainless rods may not, etc).

One advantage of AC is that you won't get arc blow.

If the genny has other outlets - 240v, 415v etc, you could always use an inverter as well, if the job called for it. You could also potentially add a rectifier to the set-up, and have all options.

 

[jools1010]

a/c d/c

Thanks for that most helpfull whats the advantages of the rectifier? Iam in no hurry to get setup so options still open as to get a welder / generator or generator and inverter??

Cheers

Jools

 

[Archie]

The rectifier is a set of diodes that converts the AC output to DC so you'd have the option of both.

 

[Drains]

A rectifier turns your AC into DC. Welding rectifiers occasionally come up on ebay. Don't ask me about the real requirements (over and above a set of bridge diodes), cos I don't have a scooby.

Careful about going the generator/ inverter route - you have to make sure the genny is man enough for the job. Better off with a welder generator.

 

[snowcat]

pahhh, spent many happy years with an inverter Genny cobi, much nicer than having a donkey howling in your ear for hours, 5KVA mind min for a 170amp inverter....

 

[asmeix6g]

are you sure the genny is an AC output for welding? usually it will say AC - 110v and DC welding current. it might be worth double checking...