There are a few things you should consider before buying a welding machine. First, what type of welding do you need to do? There are different machines for different types of welding, so be sure to get the right one. Second, what is your budget? Welding machines can be quite expensive, so you’ll want to make sure you can afford the one you need. Finally, what are the features you need? Different machines have different features, so be sure to get one that has everything you need. Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you’re ready to buy a welding machine!
There are a variety of welding machines to opt from. However, no single welding machine is best suitable for all kinds of applications. Thus, it is crucial to take into account the types of welding machines available in India, their advantages and capabilities, as well as the purpose you need them for. Based on these, you will be able to buy the perfect welding machine for your business.
Types of Welding Machines
The most common welding machines are the ones that involve these processes: TIG, MIG, and stick. Below, we have explained these along with their key features to help you understand them better.
TIG (GTAW)
TIG or Gas Tungsten Arc Welding involves the utilization of consumable tungsten electrodes for the creation of weld. The machines are utilized for welding thin metal sheets and are ideal for welding alloys containing nickel, copper, magnesium, and aluminium.
Operating TIG welding machines comprises quality weld joints and higher precision, which is why only professional welders can use them. Nonetheless, they are highly efficient due to the short operation time.
MIG (GMAW)
MIG or Gas Metal Arc Welding machines do not require a flux. Yet, welders are required to use a shielding gas for protecting the weld against contamination. Also, these machines are popularly used for connecting small amounts of metal and the best part is that they do not form slag.
Stick (SMAW)
Stick or Shielded Metal Arc Welding machine is the most commonly used type of welding machine. The process of welding involves the flow of electric current from a gap between the arc-welding electrode and the metal. These machines are highly effective when it comes to welding joints and alloys and can be utilized outdoors as well as indoors.
Which Welding Machine Best Suits Your Needs?
Based on the kind of materials and welding projects your business will require to weld more often, choose your welding machine.
Welding Machine that is Fit for Your Project
Given below is a table of projects and their average material thickness to help you decide.
| Project Type | Average Thickness of the Material (in inches) |
| General to heavy repair | 3/16 to 1/4 |
| Utility trailers and hunting stands | 1/16 to 1/8 |
| Vehicles including motorcycles, cars, and boats | 1/16 to 1/8 |
| Lawnmowers, bicycles, and tube frames | 1/16 |
| Thick structural components | More than 3/8 |
| Landscape, ranch, and farm | 5/16 to 3/8 |
| Fencing and trailer frames | 1/4 to 5/16 |
| Auto body | Equal to or less than 3/16 |
Features of the Welding Machine
Since each type has different features, the type that suits your business needs best is the one whose features align with the requirements of your organization.
- If you are looking for one with simplicity and ease of use, the MIG welding machine is the best. With high welding speeds, this kind of welding machine has great control over thinner metals.
- In case you are looking for the highest quality welds, we recommend you buy the TIG welding machine. It offers highly aesthetic and precise welds. Moreover, you can also adjust the amount of heat input during the process.
- If your business projects involve welding in outdoor, windy areas, stick welding is the most suitable option. It works great on thicker materials.
Metal Types
Given below are the types of metals on which each kind of welding machine can be used on.
- TIG: TIG welding machines can be used only on cast iron.
- MIG: MIG welding machines are great for cast iron, brass, copper, Chromoly, and exotic metals like titanium and magnesium.
- Stick: Stick welding machines can be used for aluminium alloys, Chromoly, copper, brass, and exotic metals.
Things to Consider While Buying a Welding Machine
Apart from the above-mentioned aspects, numerous other factors must be considered while buying a welding machine.
Power Source
Different welding machines are powered by varying sources, including batteries, gas, and electricity. Carefully take into account their limitations and advantages before choosing.
Portability
If a welding machine must be carried to different sites, it is best to check its weight and size. The more compact the machine is, the higher its portability. Moreover, it will not take up much space for storage as well.
Gas Tanks
When using a TIG or MIG welding machine, you will have to buy gas tanks. These are utilized for storing welding gas that aids in protecting the weld from being contaminated.
Buy welding machines online at L&T-SuFin
Pay attention to portability, technique, power source, materials that you will weld, and their thickness when buying a welding machine. L&T-SuFin has a wide variety of welding machines, each serving different business purposes. Moreover, it offers logistics and financial support to make buying easier. Also, check out the blogs and articles on the site on various industrial products to make a more informed decision when buying your welding machine.