Introduction
Professional welders often find themselves working in remote locations with limited access to electricity. In such situations, having the right power-generating equipment becomes essential. Engine-driven welder generators, which are welding equipment powered by engines instead of mains electricity, serve as the perfect solution for these scenarios. These versatile mobile units not only perform various welding operations and power welding equipment but can also act as backup power sources for other electrical devices like plasma cutters and power tools. Let’s explore the world of gas powered welders and discover the best options available in the market.
Hobart Champion 145: An Affordable Performer
Looking for a cost-effective gas powered welder that delivers impressive performance? The Hobart Champion 145 miller gas-powered welder might just be what you’re looking for. It offers a wide range of features at an affordable price. While it may not be suitable for heavy-duty welding jobs or professional-grade welding businesses, it serves as an excellent first welder for most users. With its inbuilt DC stick welder for small jobs and decent single-phase AC power, it is lightweight and comes equipped with a portable wheel system. However, keep in mind that the Hobart Champion 145 has a low power draw and may not be suitable for welding thick metal.
Miller Bobcat 250: Power and Versatility
If you’re in search of a gas powered welder that offers exceptional versatility, the Miller Bobcat 250 is worth considering. With its two-cylinder 23 HP Kohler gasoline engine and ergonomic design, it is perfect for construction, farming, ranching, and mechanical contracting. The Miller Bobcat 250 is an excellent all-around welder, capable of handling stick, MIG, flux core, and AC welding. It features a peak power output of 11kw and offers 115 or 230v outlets. With its quiet motor and improved power and smoothness, thanks to the skewed rotor design, it is a reliable choice for various jobsite applications.
The Best Welder Generator—A Comprehensive Buying Guide
Power Output
When selecting a welder generator, the power output plays a crucial role in determining its cost and suitability for your needs. Higher power output generally comes with a higher price tag. While more affordable welder generators are designed to power a welder only, more powerful models can provide enough energy to support additional machinery like angle grinders or plasma cutters.
AC/DC Power
Arc welding involves two types of currents: AC and DC welding. DC output offers a more consistent and smooth arc, resulting in fewer spatters. On the other hand, AC power tends to produce more spatter and offers a slightly less smooth welding experience. However, AC power is preferred for welding aluminum as it eliminates the oxide from the metal’s surface and helps address arc blast difficulties.
Duty Cycle
The duty cycle refers to the amount of time a machine can safely operate at a specific amperage. It is expressed as a percentage, with a lower percentage indicating a shorter duration of operation before the welder generator shuts off to complete its cycle. The duty cycle is crucial to consider when assessing engine welders.
Welding Capability
Most engine-driven welders primarily serve as stick welding machines, as stick welding is the most popular type of welding performed with them. However, some welder generators are powerful enough to handle specialized welding procedures like TIG welding, and some can support flux core welding when used with a MIG welder. Make sure to use the appropriate welding leads and accessories for MIG or TIG welding applications.
Lifan Pro Series WeldPro AXQ1-200a: Versatility and Power
The Lifan Pro Series WeldPro AxQ1-200A miller gas powered welder is an ideal choice for those seeking versatility and power. With 4000 starting and running watts of power and the ability to weld at 200 amps, this machine offers impressive performance. It features a 6.5-gallon fuel tank, a three-year warranty, and user-friendly operation, making it suitable even for beginners.
Conclusion
Gas powered welders provide a reliable and convenient solution for welding projects in remote locations. Whether you choose the Hobart Champion 145, the Miller Bobcat 250, or the Lifan Pro Series WeldPro AXQ1-200a, these welder generators offer a combination of power, versatility, and ease of use. By considering factors such as power output, AC/DC power, duty cycle, and welding capability, you can make an informed decision when selecting the best welder generator for your specific needs.