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Care and Maintenance of a Welding Machine

Welding is the process of permanently joining metal parts to form one whole piece. This process is done by a welding machine. It is paramount to take good care of your welding machine if you want it to serve you for the longest time possible. Care and maintenance of a welding machine are divided into three categories:

The power source The gas cylinder and distribution system Recommended safety measures

Below s the three categories explained:

The Power Source

Always keep in mind the possibility of an electric shock therefore at all times, avoid working in wet conditions. Water is a good conductor of electricity and electric currents will always find a lee way in areas with least resistance. When welding indoors, it is advisable to stand on a dry rubber mat or a dry board when welding outdoors.

It is also advisable to have frequent checks for electrical connections because poor connections can lead to shock or worse still an electric shot which can cause fire. Be sure that your welding machine is properly grounded according to the National Electrical Code Safety Standards.

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The Gas Cylinder and Distribution System

Gas cylinders should be fastened securely using the chains that are usually provided. The chains are usually used to fasten the gas cylinder to a wall or gas cylinder holder if available. When you have to move the cylinder, ensure that you fasten the cap to the top of the cylinder. This protects the valve from exploding in case the cylinder is accidentally dropped or damaged while moving.

Always ensure that the cylinder is put in an upright position at all times. This is because some cylinders contain liquids that might leak if the cylinder is placed horizontally and when this liquid gets in touch with the fire emitted during welding, it can cause an explosion.

Recommended Safety Measures

The following are the recommended safety measures to keep in mind at all times:

Always have on the right clothing for welding; overall, boots, gloves and eye shield. When oils spill, wipe them off immediately. Always check the fluid levels and have them refilled the moment it is used up. Service the air filters frequently Clean and tighten the weld terminals after use Change oil and oil filters frequently

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Clean and tighten the battery connections Clean the cooling system as well

Qualities of a good welder

A welding machine cannot work without an operator. This operator is known as a welder and he has to have several qualities before he is able to handle a welding machine:

Ability to read blueprints

A good welder must be able to read, understand and interpret blueprint information. This should then be transformed into the intended result.

Know the safety standards

A welding machine can turn out into a dangerous machine if not well handled. A good welder must therefore be conversant with the various safety measures that need to be taken when using the machine.

Concentration

Welding is no child play. A good welder must be someone who concentrates on the work at hand because a simple careless mistake can cost a lot.

Customer care skills

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You don’t have to go to school to learn how to deal with customers. A good welder must have customer care skills at hand because most of the time they will deal with customers who either want to hire the welding machine or the welder’s services.

Detail Oriented

A good welder must be someone who is keen on details and result oriented. This ensures that they do not overlook the tiny details that can have a huge effect afterwards.

Good eye sight

A good welder should have good eye sight as the work they do mostly involves looking at the area of work and seeing what needs to be done. Most of the time, they judge a good work by simply looking at it. They must therefore have a sharp vision that is able to notice every little detail.

Metal Knowledge

Welding largely involves using metals. A good welder should be able to know the different types of metals, their properties, what they can do and what they cannot be used for.

Knowledge of tools & equipment

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A good welder needs to be conversant with the various tools and equipment that are used in the welding process. The tools include things like benders, cutters, joiners etc.

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