What kind of generator is needed for a welding machine: how to choose and where to order?

I often have difficulties choosing a generator for welding. What to buy? How to choose the right one? Where to save on the budget, but get a normal welding machine with gasoline? In our article you will find answers to all problematic situations. Let's begin!

What kind of generator is needed for a welding machine: evaluation criteria

Any technique has a whole list of technical characteristics. They are indicated on the box, in the passport or instructions for use. The entire list is enough to make a choice in favor of one or another version of a gasoline welding unit.

To make the right choice, only five parameters are enough:

• Device power
• Welding current strength
• What diameter are the electrodes used in the machine?
• Is the generator compatible with the welding machine?
• Synchronous generator or with hybrid technology (also called Duplex)

This is enough to figure out which generator is needed in a particular situation for a welding machine.

It is worth saying that all generator models are divided into several more. There are hybrid versions of Duplex.We are only interested in a synchronous or hybrid generator for welding; others are not suitable: an inverter generator does not have enough power for welding.

Power of generating equipment for inverter

The parameter is easy to determine, since the manufacturer is required to indicate it in the technical documentation. Everything is in sight. Even a child can find information.

The main thing here is not to confuse the units of measurement (because there can be several of them, the main one is kW) and the generator power options for a welding inverter: nominal and maximum.

The generator is effective only with a power reserve of a quarter or half more than you need for a welding inverter. This is because the constant use of the generator produces a maximum value over time, it decreases. Without a certain “reserve”, the inverter may simply not start from it at one time, since there will be little power.

Gas generator current for welding: which one to choose

There is also an option to use the generator weaker than needed for the welding machine, but you will have to make a limitation - set it to a lower current strength than is required under normal conditions. The device still works the same, but a little weaker.

Example: for a 4 kW generator model, a power of 136 A is required. This means that without losing the quality of the current, you can cook at 130 A. You just need to lower the parameter on the inverter and calmly connect the engine.

How to choose the correct electrode diameter

One of the parameters on how to choose a generator for a welding machine is whether the power of the generator is suitable for the diameter of the working electrode. Below is a list to help you navigate the approximate parameters of the electrodes:

• 2.5 Kilowatt – 2mm
• 3.5 Kilowatt – 3mm
• 4.5 Kilowatt – 4mm

Thus: to work with an inverter and a motor of 4.5 kW and above, electrodes of 4 mm are needed. For other situations, proceed in the same way as in the list.

Which generator is suitable for a specific brand of welding device

To give you a little insight into the entire assortment, below we have presented a small selection of inverters, based on which we roughly compiled the motors.

Svarog - strong and durable inverters with a five-year warranty. To help them, it is enough to purchase a generator from an inexpensive segment like Huter and Fubag.

Kemppi - the model has proven itself in production and in harsh situations. What is needed here is a device with low fuel consumption and wear resistance. You will have to work hard and at full capacity.

Resanta is small in size, but no less powerful. For household versions, BRIMA brand generators are perfect, which can also be installed as a backup power source when welding is not needed at work.

What else should you pay attention to when buying an engine?

There are some other useful tips that experts miss and don't mention in video reviews. They will definitely come in handy when purchasing your first generator for welding.

1. If your device has a power rating of up to 10 Kilowatts, then it is better to look for a fuel-powered option. These are the most common devices. More - on gasoline, more powerful - on a diesel basis.
2. A reserve of 50% of power is not required. 15-25% is enough to facilitate ignition of the arc between the electrodes. For a diesel model, a reserve of half the original power is required.
3. The most functional stations are those with cast iron sleeves. The minimum time the system will work is about one and a half thousand hours. Similar models, but with an aluminum base, work three times less.
4. There are welding machines labeled PFC. Such models received a device power correction system. The result is that you can work even at low power levels by simply adjusting the setting to one compatible with the generator.

The purpose of our article is to tell readers about engine models for domestic use. For professional purposes, the parameters may differ, please be careful.

Semi-automatic welding machines that use argon may have problems connecting to the generator unit. The manufacturer must indicate this in the technical data sheet. If there is no information, consult with specialists before purchasing a motor for your inverter.

Using just a few tips, you will get a high-quality and reliable inverter motor that can be used not only for welding, but also for other household purposes. However, consulting with a professional never hurts. Seek advice from the store, analyze the knowledge gained with your own and determine the ideal model for yourself. See you soon!