Whether you’ve recently developed an interest in welding or have been wearing the mask for years, you’ll always depend on quality welding supplies for a job well done. So how should you go about getting these essential tools and what should you know before buying them? Use the following answers to the most frequently asked questions before making a purchase.

What to Know About Welding Supplies

What type of welding supplies do I need?

First, determine what type of welding you’ll be performing. For example, Metal Inert Gas (MIG) Welding requires plate metals and a wire electrode on a spool, while Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding calls for gas and metal vapors and a constant current power supply. Before you start compiling an order, consider trying out someone else’s materials.

Do I need to invest in safety gear?

Welding is, without a doubt, a dangerous activity, involving open flames and other volatile elements. No matter what type you’re doing, you’ll need to add a helmet and fireproof gloves to your full coverage outfit, complete with closed-toed shoes.

What are plasma cutters?

Just like TIG and MIG welding, plasma cutters refer to a specific type of welding, not just a tool. This process involves a torch, which produces plasma with an electric arc. The substance is then heated up with gas and turned into a cone or stream that can cut or create metal.

Do all projects use the same type of wire?

There are a wide variety of wires in the welding industry—so you must determine ahead of time what best suits your needs. For example, metal-cored ones are a combination of solid and flux-cored wires, and they allow professionals to weld with a minimal amount of surface contamination. On the other hand, hardfacing wire is used to restore worn-down metal pieces to their original size.

If you’re interested in picking up some welding supplies for your project, turn to Clifton Feed and Service Center of Clifton, TX. They have been providing top-quality farm supplies and feed for over 50 years. For more information on their offerings, visit the website or call (254) 675-3416 today.