As the largest motor shop in the Alaskan interior, Aero Services receives a lot questions about how to maintain, fix, and operate welding machines. This equipment is essential for a successful welding job, as it supplies the electrical power necessary to provide heat between the welding gun and the metal you’re working with.  

Before you begin operating any type of welding machine, these masters of electric motors recommend making sure you have all the necessary parts and repairs. It’s also a great idea to review the operational manual and follow all the proper safety measures.

For a quick introduction, here are a few tips on how to operate welding machines:

• Know How Much Power You Need: Different welding projects require different amperages, ranging anywhere from five to 12,000 amps. Figure out the range required for your project and make sure you have welding machines that can supply this current.
• Secure Electrode: Use an electrode clamp to connect your welding gun to an electrode. Make sure the connection is secure by placing the clamp on the metal facet of the electrode.
• Power Up: Once the electrode is secure, you can turn on your welding machine. If the transformer does not produce a humming noise or the power is not strong enough, you may have tripped a breaker. Check the breakers if needed.
• Strike Your Arc: Quickly touch the electrode to the metal you’re working with and pull back to create your desired arc length.
• Make Adjustments As Needed: Arcs won’t always form as desired and may require some modifications. If you can’t achieve your desired strike-out distance, slowly increase the amperage. If your welds are pitted or have warped edges, you likely need to reduce the welding machine’s amperage.

If you face trouble at any of these stages, you may need special parts—such as high-powered circuits—to create the current and arc you need. Whether you need parts and repairs for welding machines or have questions, you can trust in the knowledgeable technicians at Aero Services. Discover more about their services online or call the team at (907) 479-6666.