The need to cook something usually appears in summer cottages and in a private house. It is not profitable to hire specialists and pay for their work every time, so it is better to learn how to use the welding machine yourself. It is better to purchase a small light inverter that will allow you to make a neat seam without specific skills and abilities.
Content
- Welding features
- Tools and equipment
- Instructions for beginners
- Seam formation
Welding features
The welding machine is called an inverter because of the way it works. The device converts an alternating current with a frequency of 50 Hz to a higher frequency and then to a direct current. Welding has a high efficiency - over 85%, but at the same time the meter readings change slowly.
Most of the devices are suitable for use in a 220 V household network, some are designed for industrial use. Welding does not reduce voltage, and it also works silently, so neighbors will not be unhappy with the repair. And also the devices can function when the power of the network is reduced, which is important for rural residents. An inverter welding machine for beginners is the best option. It works softly, arcs easily. The device is easy to handle and operate.
Tools and equipment
First you need to pick up the device itself. You should not choose expensive models, since the skills of the master are valued more expensive than the quality of the instrument. But cheap models are not suitable for work either. They are less reliable, and they also lack contours to facilitate ignition. This makes the device dangerous in the hands of an inexperienced welder.
When buying, pay attention to the current adjustment range. For welding and cutting steel, you can use the device with a maximum current of 160 A, but it can be overloaded. The constant on indicator determines the duration of the device's operation, it decreases with increasing current. If you choose a powerful device, then at constant voltage it will work for a long time without interruption. An electric welding device for beginners should have a maximum rating of 200 A. Devices with no-load voltage will help to keep the arc and develop ignition skills.
Masters will also need:
- welding goggles or mask;
- special robe;
- leggings made of tarpaulin.
A mask for work is a necessary equipment for a welder. It protects the face and eyes from bright flashes, sparks and ultraviolet radiation that forms an arc. Robe can be replaced with tight clothing made of natural cotton. Before work, all flammable objects must be removed from the welding place. The arc is ignited only after the master puts on the mask. The first flashes can cause serious eye damage by damaging the retina. The consequences of burns will not appear immediately, but only the next day.
Instructions for beginners
Before starting welding, you need to understand the structure of the apparatus. The novice master will not inspect the internal parts, he will pay attention only to the external elements that need to be worked with.. Welding device structure:
- network indicator;
- overheating protection sensor;
- welding current regulator;
- two connectors for the cable;
- ventilation grilles for cooling;
- shoulder strap.
The device itself resembles a small metal box, the mass of which depends on the power. On the front wall there is a toggle switch, as well as overheating and power indicators. The power cable connects to the back of the device. Clamp and ground cables are connected to the connectors.
An arc forms between the electrode and the metal, it is she who, with the help of high temperature, melts the metal. If the electrode is connected to the negative pole, and the parts to the positive, then the connection is called direct. In the opposite case - the opposite, which is used for working with thin metals.
The element connected to the second pole heats up faster. Strong materials must be melted to form a neat seam, thin ones must be connected to the minus, as they can burn out.
Seam formation
The electrode contains a core and greasewhich prevents oxygen from entering the welding area. When the core and metal are joined together, an arc is formed. The grease ignites, turns into liquid and gaseous states. The gases form a weld pool surrounding the work area. The liquid creates a protective layer on the metal surface. Then it cools down and turns into a crust at the seam.
To form a neat seam, you need to properly cook with a welding machine. It is necessary to evenly warm up both metal parts, melting them at the same distance from the edge. During the entire process, keep the electrode at the same distance from the workpiece.
To do this, it is gradually moved forward while it melts. You can make the seam wider by writing out figures with an electrode - zigzags, triangles.
Work begins with ignition of the arc. To do this, you need to knock or strike the part with the electrode several times. Then they master the movements by drawing rollers or a herringbone on the metal with the device. With chalk you need to draw a line along which the seam will go. In the place of ignition of the arc, the steel is covered with slag, it is carried along the drawn line.
The electrode is held at the same angle at all times. The distance between the device and the part should be 3 mm, then the seam will be even. You can quickly learn how to work with metal thanks to the electric arc welding instructions for beginners.
