Abstract: A multiple electrode magnetic arc welder that has a plurality of electrodes arranged in a preselected pattern corresponding to the arrangement of the multiple welds to be made by these electrodes in sequence. Each of these electrodes is mounted for movement from a retracted inoperative position toward the respective work areas where the welding takes place and back to the retracted position. The electrodes are moved individually into close proximity welding position to its workpiece for welding the workpiece and then retracted to inoperative position with the means for retracting the electrodes comprising means for automatically de-energizing the retracted electrode. The disclosure also includes a supply of pressurized inert gas and a valve for bathing the electrode and the workpiece in this inert gas automatically during the welding operation when the above close proximity position is maintained.