Homemade energy storage cold arc welding machine

How does an arc welder function?

An arc welder typically uses a transformer to step down the high voltage low current supply from the wall outlet of a house to low voltage and high current. The low current ensures safety during welding, while the high amperage generates heat to melt the metal and electrode and fuse them together.

What is an Arc/Stick welder?

An Arc/Stick welder is a device that uses an electrical power supply to create a hot arc. It melts and fuses metals together using a consumable electrode. This homemade welder is a really cool project, and I highly encourage you to make one. It is an engineer’s and hobbyist’s tool that can create other tools and fix things.

Why do we use microwave oven transformers for DIY arc welding machine?

Microwave Oven Transformers (MOTs) are used for our DIY arc welding machine for several reasons. They are compact, their secondary winding is big, and they are easily available. The large transformers can provide the required high power output.

How to power a welder?

Even though many of us already have Electrode welders but they consume too much electricity and the gas fumes are very harmful for lungs. In this system a 12 volts UPS battery or a laptop charger of 15V O/P will power up the machine. Get 3 electrolytic capacitors rated at 250 volts and 10000 microfarad each.Connect them in parallel.

How to balance a welder?

To balance a welder, it is important to maintain a short arc. Slowly push the puddle and slide it away from the slag at the top to avoid leaving voids and puddles. For welders with current control, keep a low current for thin metals and a high one for thick ones.

What makes a good Mot welder?

A good MOT welder has a big core, less primary winding, and a big secondary window. These features provide the required power for the welding process. When building the welder, ensure nothing is connected to the mains and there is a good measure for protection.