Whether you’d like to build custom cars or just fix a cracked lawn mower deck, learning to weld gives your mechanical skills a serious boost.
How to Get Started in Welding
Updated on May 01, 2023
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Welding Basics
All of these welding systems work essentially the same: An electric arc generates enough heat between the electrode (stick or wire) and the metal being joined to melt both together and create the bond. To ensure a strong bond, the super-hot area around the weld is surrounded by a cloud of inert gas to prevent oxygen and contaminants in the air from weakening the weld. That gas is provided either by the flux inside or around the electrode, or by a bottle of gas that feeds the joint as you weld.
Choosing Your First Welder
How Much to Spend
To get started, you’ll likely spend $200 to $400 for a quality welding machine. Check online to see the range of what’s available because most home centers carry only one or two models. A 120-volt welder, powered by a conventional outlet, can weld metal up to 5/16 in. thick. You’ll need at least a 20-amp (preferably a 30-amp) circuit.
What is Amp Output?
The higher your machine’s amp output, the thicker the material it can weld. Most people work with angle iron and tube steel no thicker than 1/4-in. Any 120-volt machine will suffice for this.
Which Machine to Buy
If you’re really serious about welding and want more flexibility for future projects, get a 240-volt machine powered by a 50-amp circuit. A 240-volt machine makes welding thick material much easier and faster. Most welding machines have a chart inside a flip-up hood detailing the exact setup you’ll need (amps, electrode size, etc.) for a given thickness of material. You can buy a single machine capable of MIG, TIG and stick, but it’ll cost about $1,200. Women are doing great in the welding trade. Meet Brenda Hay, a professional welder.
Besides the welding machine, set aside about $200 for basic accessories.
Build this perfect welding table for your workshop.
These are the 20 products DIYers should always buy at Harbor Freight:
Rolling Tool Cabinet
When it comes to tool storage and work benches, Harbor Freight may be your best workmate. Compared to other name brands, you’ll find the best value and durability with the U. S. General brand from Harbor Freight. Check out this 72-inch triple bank rolling tool cabinet in your choice of eight colors.Organize your workspace within the 14 smooth drawers. Charge your tools or work directly on the bench with the in-drawer charging system. With the 6-inch casters, this tool rack moves where you need it, even when filled. Which, by the way, is a 6600 pounds. And for extra security, the entire tool chest locks with one key so the drawers can’t be opened. This rolling tool cabinet is built to last with rugged powder-coated steel and ball-bearing drawers. Plus, these U.S. General mobile workbenches come in various sizes, colors and configurations to suit all your needs. Don’t pay up for the garage of your dreams; Harbor Freight has you covered.
Portable Air Compressor
Whether you need to power your tools or fill your tires, the Fortress 175 psi compressor is an excellent choice. This compact compressor packs a punch at 175 PSI with an impressive 3.0 SCFM and a six-gallon tank. Users love the portability, fast pump-up time and ability to work in extreme conditions down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. It doesn’t leak or collect condensation, and customers love its oil-free pump and easy start operation. You’ll be pleased with the small 16-inch square footprint and carrying handle. With large, easy-to-read gauges and brass universal couplings, you can get to work straight away.
Dust Collector
Keep your shop pristine and dust-free with the Central Machinery High Capacity Dust Collector. Built for large jobs, the powerful 1550 CFM quickly captures dust and large chips with the 5-inch inlet. This machine filters particles as little as 5 microns to keep you safe and your environment clean. With an upright design and locking swivel casters, this dust collector moves with you from tool to tool. Woodworkers appreciate the large capacity bag because they don't waste time continually emptying it. Other users find it much quieter than a high-pitched vacuum typically found in shops. Everyone appreciates how efficiently it keeps their shop clean and the portable, upright design.
Portable Garage
Need extra space to store your toys or work on projects? The CoverPro Portable Garage gives you peace of mind while protecting your vehicles and equipment from hail, snow, sun and rain. This heavy-duty 12-foot-by-20-foot garage is big enough for an SUV. Its durable frame is made from 1.5-inch high-grade steel with a water-resistant UV-treated polyethylene cover. The kit includes the frame, cover, nylon rope and anchors. The CoverPro has easy-to-access zippered doors on the front and back for a drive-thru design. The door flaps are securely stowed out of the way when opened with a pulley and roller system. Although assembly is easy, it’s time-consuming, and you’ll want to recruit a friend to get the cover on and anchor this carport in place.Users love the extra space it frees up and its sturdy construction. Some found it stable even in 50 mph winds. Don’t settle for less; expect quality materials and craftsmanship with this shelter from the storm.
Magnetic Accessory Holder
a magnetic caddy from U.S. Generalpaper towel holderslatex glove dispensers
