A stud welding machine can include handheld tools, or it can be designed to be mounted to fixture for automated types of stud welding. The handheld style of machine is most commonly used in the industry other than in large fabrication or manufacturing plants and facilities.
CD or Drawn Arc?
When in the market for a stud welding machine start with the basics first as there are a lot of different models, brands, and options to consider. First, determine if you need a CD (Capacitator Discharge) system or a drawn arc weld system.
In general, the CD equipment is used for thinner base metals and smaller diameter stud welds. The drawn arc stud welding machine is used for the larger diameter stud welds and the heavier base materials. Both are designed to allow the stud weld to be attached to one side of the workpiece without any visible sign of the attachment on the other.
These systems consist of a handheld tool, the stud gun, a power source, and cables. The power source is actually the stud welder and allows for the configuration of the different settings, controls how fast welds can be processed and if the system can be used for more than one type of stud welding operation.
Features and Functions
As there are a lot of features and functions on the new designs of stud welders, start by making a list of what you need. This can include the types of materials you work with, the demands for a specific job site and even the types of displays or controls that need to be readily available for the operator. Operator safety will also be a critical factor, look for equipment designed with this in mind.
Once the basics are covered on a machine, start looking at the other functions and features offered. By using this method, you will never find you have purchased equipment that has some great features but doesn’t work for your basic requirements.
