The What, Why, and How of Metal Brakes(bending)
Most metal bending is done with a brake, but do you know how and why that is? Bending is a process in manufacturing that can create a variety of shapes – channel, U or V-shaped. A brake is a metalworking machine that welders use to bend the sheet metal. There are multiple sizes and styles…
Plasma Cutting With and Without Air: Which Should You Choose?
Can you use a plasma cutter without an air compressor? Plasma cutters typically come with an air compressor, but some units come without this component. Air compressors can help you cut more precisely. They can also make your plasma cutter portable for off-the-grid jobs. However, they do come with some downsides. While you can plasma…
Grab Hold: Choosing the Best Welding Pliers
Who makes the best welding pliers? Choosing the correct welding pliers for your application requires careful consideration. You should take into account the type of welding, the material(s) of the pliers, your budget, and your personal preferences. Finding the right set of welding pliers can take time, but once you’ve found a pair you like,…
25 of the Best Welding Accessories
What welding accessories should you invest in? While there’s no set list of welding accessories you must own, most welders have a typical inventory of both basic and specialized tools. We’ve gathered a list of 25 of the best welding accessories below for your reference. Ranging in price from under $20 to above $100, these…
Rod Ovens: What Are They and Do I Need One?
Those proficient at stick welding already possess expertise in temperature management, shielding gas, travel speed and more. You would expect no less from them in terms of equipment and materials prep. Stick welders should carefully maintain everything involved in the welding process. A rod oven is a good example. What are rod ovens and do…
There’s a Hole in Your Table, Dear Welder
Do you want a welding table with holes? Holes intentionally placed within the structure of a welding table serve quite a variety of purposes. These holes can be of any shape and/or size, really, and are meant to either help hold a tool or work piece that is being welded. Welding tables are useful both…
How Do On/Off Welding Magnets Work?
Magnets are a staple of any welding shop. Whether you’re positioning pieces together for fusion or picking up stray shards of metal from around your workspace, having a magnet on hand can make many projects much simpler. A favorite among welders? The on/off magnet. There are many unique benefits to being able to simply flip…
How Long Can Welding Leads Be
Weld for long enough and you’ll probably find yourself in a situation where the item you need to weld is not easily accessible. There are times where you would love to just be able to unspool a couple hundred feet of lead instead of trying to drag that giant car frame just a little closer.…
14 Essential Beginner Welding Tools You Have to Buy
If I want to start welding, which tools should I invest in? Beginner welders should purchase a quality welder, first and foremost. In addition, you’ll also need to buy supplemental tools, accessories, safety gear, and shielding gas. Despite the initial investment, it’s important to privilege quality over a cheap price tag when welding. As the…
What are Welding Clamps Used For?
It’s likely you’ll see welding clamps on any “must have” list for welders. They’re an absolute necessity, and it would be hard for you to complete any major project without them. Welding clamps temporarily hold two pieces of material together tightly so you can weld them together in alignment. They’re especially useful for large sheets…