Could any of you tell me what benefit AC / DC welders do over AC or DC only. If I was to buy a hobbyist welder, what should I go for? Both AC / DC or AC or DC. Max would be 1/4" but mainly thinner. I do have a Miller 135 and O/A at this time.
Stick AC/DC?
Jun 21, 2004
5 Replies
The main reason you'd want AC capability in a stick welder is to fight arc blow (magnetic field induced arc wander). DC produces a better arc, and is preferred in all situations where arc blow isn't an issue.
Gary
Could you tell me what arc blow is? not sure. Don D.
Also thought the A/C provides a "cleaning" action on rusty weldments. Cost is also a factor. Personally, I prefer A/C where possible since I feel that I can get a narrower bead (in situations where that is advantages), and smaller HAZ, but thats just "me", I know others prefer D/C.
Well, I guess I may have to buy AC / DC anyway to cover both bases. Thanks for all the input from all of you. Don
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