Whether you are just starting a fabrication business or plan to start personal projects that require the use of a welder, you may be in the process of researching different welding machines. Since this is your first machine, you may be uncertain as to where you should start when making a selection.

If so, you should start by sitting down and thinking about your current and future needs. You can begin this process by asking yourself the questions discussed below to help you choose your first welding machine that will include the features that you will need.

1. What Types of Metal Will You Be Using for Your Fabrication Projects?

One of the first questions you should ask yourself has to do with the metal you will be using for your fabrication projects. Along with considering whether you will be working with thin aluminum or heavy steel, you should also think about whether the welder will be used on old or new metal.

If you will be working on new, thin aluminum sheet metal, for example, you would want a welding machine that allows you to perform MIG welding. However, for old, rusted steel that is often found on car frames, you would want a machine that has a fluxed core feature that allows for deeper welds.

2. In What Types of Environments Will You Be Using the Welding Machine?

Another thing that you need to consider when choosing a welder is the environment in which you will be using the machine. If you are going to be working primarily indoors, you can use most of the welding processes, including TIG which gives you the freedom to create intricate welds.

However, if you will be using the welder primarily outdoors where there is a chance that it will be exposed to wind, you would want a machine that allows for stick welding with a coated electrode. The coating on the electrode helps to consistently maintain the heat required to create strong welds.

Before you purchase a new welding machine, carefully consider the types of metal that you will be working with during your fabrication projects to determine whether you need one that accommodates, MIG, TIG, stick, or flux core processes. You should also consider the environments in which you will be working, which will determine the electrodes and processes that you will be able to use. For more information and assistance with making a choice based on your needs, contact a business that offers welding equipment for sale to speak with a representative.