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When it comes to selecting your next piece of welding equipment, there are many different choices. In addition, there are many factors that will help determine the best piece of equipment for you. Let’s take a look at some considerations to help you choose wisely for your repair facility.
One of the first things you need to think about is, what are the vehicle maker requirements for welding equipment? If your repair facility is part of an OEM network, there are network requirements for what spot welding equipment can be used to repair their vehicles. The OEM has tested and approved spot welding equipment in order to weld panels to their repair standards.
If not part of a network, another consideration when selecting a welder is, what vehicles does your shop typically work on? Look at the work order history to find which vehicles are the most common. Next, look into the repair manuals of these vehicles and see what specified clamp force and amperage is required for panel replacement. Then determine what spot welder will meet those requirements. Check the vehicle maker service site to see if they specify certain spot welder machine capabilities and functions.
The availability of different welding tips and arms may be a determining factor in what welder to choose. This will likely depend on if the OEM has procedures that specify the use of spot welds in hard-to-reach areas.
Two other considerations often overlooked, and probably the two most important, are the power coming into the building and the wiring inside the building. If you don’t have adequate power available for the spot welder, it doesn’t matter which one you buy, it will not work without the correct amount of power.
While researching possible welders, make sure to pay attention to the power requirements. Then check with a certified electrician in your area to get an estimate of any required improvements, either outside or inside the building, to allow a desired welder to receive enough power.
After taking these considerations into account, the next step in the process is to talk to the supplier of the welder. Asking these questions will help ensure that you find the right spot welder for your repair facility.
I-CAR Welding Training & Certification / Hands-On Skills Development Requirements www.i-car.com/Checklists
Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:
- Back-To-Basics: Using The Correct Spot Welding Tips
- Is A Spot Welder A Required Tool? UPDATE
- Selecting The Correct Welding Equipment
- Steel Spot And Plug Weld Nugget Size: UPDATE
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