Lincoln Welding Machines & Welders

Q: What are the different types of welding machines?

A: MIG, TIG and stick are the three basic types of welding machines. However, there are also a handful of other, less common methods.

Q: What is a MIG welder used for?

A: MIG welders are a good choice for welding everything from lightweight aluminum to heavy steel. MIG (metal inert gas) welding, known technically as gas metal arc welding, uses a continuous solid wire electrode fed continuously through a gun into the weld pool, which welds the two objects together. It is a type of welding that is good for general projects among a variety of fabricators, including farm owners, construction workers, automotive builders and even sculpture artists.

Another advantage of MIG welders is that they are built for high-volume welding. If you have a long list of work and not much time for it, a MIG welder may be a solid choice. Many automated welding rigs are also powered by MIG welders. Most importantly, MIG welders are versatile. While not as mobile as stick welders, a MIG rig can be assembled almost anywhere.

Q: What is TIG welder used for?

A: A TIG welder is used for projects that call for more precise welds on smaller pieces. Technically, TIG (tungsten inert gas) welding is called gas tungsten arc welding, and its process relies a non-consumable tungsten electrode to deliver power to the welding arc. A filler material of some sort helps for building up or reinforcing.

TIG welders are almost must-have tools in shops where automotive customization is done - think of exhaust systems with very precise bends and joins. TIG welding is also optimal for bicycle frames and other types of lightweight metal frames, as well as duct work.

With TIG welding, your work is more precise, but more time consuming. The welds produced are usually very high quality on almost all metals. TIG welders offer a lot more control over the welding process, from power control to application of fillers. The work is easier to clean, too.

Q: What is stick welding used for?

A: Stick welding is one of the most commonly used types among arc procedures, used mainly on steel and iron. In stick welding, technically called shielded metal arc welding, a stick-shaped electrode is charged, thus creating the filler material used for the bond. And unlike MIG and TIG welding, which require the use of separate inert gases, the carbon dioxide created becomes your shielding gas.

It's easy and versatile - welders can just use a different type of electrode. Stick welders are also generally less expensive. While the welds are fast, the process is a bit more wasteful and cleanup is slower. A skilled hand benefits these types of welds immensely, because stick welders are generally trading productivity for versatility.

Q: What are the benefits of a Lincoln Electric® welder?

A: Quality, reliability and performance. Lincoln Electric has more than 100 years of serving welders with outstanding products. Started by two brothers, the Ohio-based company has been an innovator in welding technology, producing equipment that helps people build a better world.

The company is the clear global leader for arc welding - you will see those familiar red welders everywhere, from high-efficiency manufacturing plants to construction sites, and even the tech school classrooms where the next generations of welders are learning this important trade. WeldingMart is a proud partner and preferred dealer of Lincoln Electric welders, accessories, consumables, replacement parts and more.