When getting into welding, whether for mobile welding or in-shop projects, it’s important to know the essential tools required for the job. Here’s a breakdown of the basics.
Basic Welding Supplies
- Power source (AC or DC power)
- Welding electrode
- Welding electrode holder
- Welding helmet
- Ground clamp
Welders Supply offers top-of-the-line clamps, handheld tools, and welding magnets to enhance your welding projects.
Mobile Welding Business Essentials
For those considering starting a mobile welding business, below is a checklist of the necessary equipment and considerations for your mobile welding truck.
Tools and Equipment:
- Welder
- Welding gloves
- Welders cables
- Connectors
- Clamps
- Magnets
- TIG welder
- MIG welder
- Gas cylinders
- Generator
- Air compressor
Qualification and Business Preparation:
- Get certified in welding, preferably by a welding school approved by the American Welding Society.
- Register and insure your business.
- Purchase welding equipment and supplies.
- Consider the processes needed (gouging, running air tools, etc.) and size your machine purchase based on business goals.
Cost Considerations:
- Starting a mobile welding business may require an initial investment of approximately $5,000 for tools and a basic welder.
- Allocate a minimum of $10,000 for a truck or van.
Key Tools for Welders
What are three essential tools for a welder?
- Welding pliers: For shaping, cutting, and holding metal pieces.
- Chipping hammer: For removing excess materials like slag from welds.
- Safety glasses: To protect the eyes from debris and sparks.
Additional Welding Gear:
- Helmets
- Gloves
- Jackets
- Inspection tools
- A welder’s toolbox should contain:
- Safety gear
- Cleanup tools (chipping hammer and wire brush)
- Welder and welding consumables
- Pliers, wrenches, cutters
- Magnification tools
Training from a high school, trade school, or apprenticeship is typically required to work as a welder. A welding table or workbench is also needed for practical and safe welding. Gloves made of leather or asbestos are necessary to protect against burns, electric shock, extreme heat, and radiation.
Welding Machine Choices
The choice of welding machine depends on the type of welding to be performed, such as flux-cored, MIG, TIG, or stick welding. Pipe welding requires specific skills and tools like tape, hood, jacket, clamps, and angle grinder for quality welds. Essential welding results also rely on the combination of skill and useful equipment, including safety equipment, power tools, marking tools, and quality welding machines. Focus on investing in fundamental accessories to ensure success in welding.