What welding processes does the job require?
Stick or TIG welding steel requires a Constant Current (CC), DC output machine; CC machines are also used for Air Carbon Arc gouging. Any type of MIG or wire welding (solid wire, flux cored, metal cored) is best done with a Constant Voltage (CV) DC output machine. Most of the all-position, self-shielded flux cored wires used for structural welding, as well as wires used for other critical work like pipe or pressure vessel welding, run best with a CV welder and a dedicated wire feed system. These wires are very voltage sensitive and porosity can occur in the weld bead if the incorrect voltage is used. While wire welding has been done in the past with CC machines, that trend is declining rapidly because CC welders don’t provide real voltage control, where as CV welders do. Note: To wire weld in the field, use “suitcase” style portable feeders. Their tough plastic or metal case fully encloses the spool of wire and internal components, shielding them from dust and other contaminants. How m
