Abstract: The present invention is directed to a remotely controlled welding machine that uses serializing and modulating circuits to transfer modulated data packets to a welding power source across a weld cable. A transmitter transmits the data packets of desired welding operational parameters to a receiver disposed in the power source across a weld cable also designed to carry welding power from the power source to the wire feeder. The transmitter and other electronics of the wire feeder are constructed to use only a small amount of power which, preferably, is supplied by a DC power supply external to the wire feeder. The DC power supply is designed to provide power to the electronics of the wire feeder when the wire feeder is in a standby mode of operation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of transmitting data between and/or synchronising at least two welding devices (1, 27) or current sources or with another component and another device, which are supplied with energy via a supply network (35), whereby the functions of the welding process are controlled and/or regulated by means of a control system (4, 30) of the welding device (1, 27). The data, signals and welding parameters or synchronisation signals to be transmitted from a welding device (1, 27) or a welding current source or another component and another device, in particular by a processor, a PLC controller, a data module or a computer, etc., are converted by means of a communication unit (36, 37) into a data protocol which is then modulated by a communication unit (36, 37), in particular a modulation module (42, 43), across the supply network (35).

Abstract: The invention relate to a system, for example a welding system, for running a welding process or related process, having at least one wirelessly communicating component with a transmitter and/or receiver system. At least one mounting unit (28) is provided in the various components of the system, in particular the welding system, which can be fitted with a communication module (29) and at least one connecting mechanism of the mounting unit (28) is connected to an internal data transmission system (32) of the system, in particular the welding system. At least one mounting unit (28) is equipped with a communication module (29) in order to run a signal and/or data transmission.

Abstract: A welding torch includes a holdable torch gun having a first connection for hook up to a gas or water supply, and a second connection for hook up to a power supply. The gun has a discharge barrel with an outlet end, and a handle extending downwardly from the discharge barrel. The discharge barrel has a front facing in a same direction as the outlet end of the discharge barrel. The handle has a variable power trigger that is spring loaded and biased away from the handle. The trigger has an unsqueezed position with no current flow, a fully squeezed position with full current flow and a range of motion area between the unsqueezed position and the fully squeezed position with a range of current flow. The handle also has an amperage control mechanism located therein that is connected to the second connection.

Abstract: A magnetically-actuated switch adapted to control a welding device. The magnetically-actuated switch may comprise a set of electrical connectors that are brought into electrical communication with one another by magnetic force. The magnetically-actuated switch may be disposed within a welding implement coupled to the welding device. The welding implement may be operated by disposing a magnet proximate to the welding implement to actuate the magnetically-actuated switch. The magnet may be disposed within a magnet holder securable to a hand.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for welding is disclosed. The method includes sensing the status of a trigger between an on position and an off position. A system latch is set or released based on the trigger status and the latch status. The system latches on when the trigger is held for a predetermined time (and the latch was previously off). The latch is released when the trigger is pulled and released when the latch was previously on. When the latch is off, pulling the trigger turns the system on, and releasing the trigger before the predetermined time turns the system off. The latch may also be released when welding current drops below a threshold. The time might not start until after welding current is flowing. A welding wire feed speed control potentiometer on a torch is also disclosed. The range of the torch potentiometer is from a minimum to a value dependent on the control panel welding wire feed speed. A run-in wire feed speed control is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention describes a method of controlling and/or regulating a welding process, whereby, when an arc (15) has been ignited, a set welding process based on several different welding parameters is run. The welding process is controlled and/or regulated by a control system (4) and/or a welding current source (2). The welding apparatus (1) is switched during the welding process and is switched in particular between operating states and/or functions and/or operating modes and/or welding parameters and/or welding programmes by means of a defined movement of the welding torch.

Abstract: A wire feeder including a motor driving a set of feed rolls to force a welding wire from a spool through a welding torch to a welding operation. The wire feeder has an input lead to be connected to the output terminal of a remotely located power source having an on condition and an off condition where a welding current is directed to the output terminal only when the source is in the on condition. A weld starting trigger with a weld start position located adjacent the torch closes a switch when the trigger is shifted to the weld position, a circuit senses when the switch is closed, and a transmitter on the wire feeder transmits a start signal to the power source when the trigger switch is closed whereby the power source is shifted to its on condition when the trigger is in the weld position.

Abstract: An electric arc welding system for creating an AC welding arc between an electrode and a workpiece wherein the system comprises a first controller for a first power supply to cause the first power supply to create an AC current between the electrode and workpiece by generating a switch signal or command with polarity reversing switching points in the first controller, with the first controller operated at first welding parameters in response to first power supply specific parameter signals to the first controller. The system has at least one slave controller for operating a slave power supply to create an AC current between the electrode and workpiece by reversing polarity of the AC current at switching points where the slave controller is operated at second welding parameters in response to second power supply specific parameter signals to the slave controller.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for welding is disclosed. The method includes sensing the status of a trigger between an on position and an off position. A system latch is set or released based on the trigger status and the latch status. The system latches on when the trigger is held for a predetermined time (and the latch was previously off). The latch is released when the trigger is pulled and released when the latch was previously on. When the latch is off, pulling the trigger turns the system on, and releasing the trigger before the predetermined time turns the system off. The latch may also be released when welding current drops below a threshold. The time might not start until after welding current is flowing. A welding wire feed speed control potentiometer on a torch is also disclosed. The range of the torch potentiometer is from a minimum to a value dependent on the control panel welding wire feed speed. A run-in wire feed speed control is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for welding is disclosed. It includes a source of power and a controller. An output feedback circuit provides feedback to the controller. The controller includes a comparator that compares the fedback signal to a threshold and/or detects a short on the output. A standby/welding control is responsive to the comparator. Also, an arc end control may be provided that terminates the arc in response to detecting an increase in arc length.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for welding is disclosed. The method includes sensing the status of a trigger between an on position and an off position. A system latch is set or released based on the trigger status and the latch status. The system latches on when the trigger is held for a predetermined time (and the latch was previously off). The latch is released when the trigger is pulled and released when the latch was previously on. When the latch is off, pulling the trigger turns the system on, and releasing the trigger before the predetermined time turns the system off. The latch may also be released when welding current drops below a threshold. The time might not start until after welding current is flowing. A welding wire feed speed control potentiometer on a torch is also disclosed. The range of the torch potentiometer is from a minimum to a value dependent on the control panel welding wire feed speed. A run-in wire feed speed control is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing welding power is disclosed. It includes a transformer with a primary winding and an output secondary winding. The ac side of a rectifier circuit is connected to the output secondary. A battery or other energy storage device, such as a capacitor, is connected in series with the dc side of the rectifier. The series combination is disposed to be connected to the load. Preferably, an input circuit receives a 115 volt ac input. The transformer has a primary to secondary turns ratio of at least about 9:1.

Abstract: The invention describes a welding system with a welding device (1) and a protective device (28), in particular a protective shield (29) for a user or welder. The protective device (28) has an electrically controllable and/or adjustable protective visor (31) with a control system (32). The welding device (1) or the welding system consists of at least one current source (2), a welding torch (10) and a control unit. The protective device (28) has a transmitter and/or receiver unit (33) which is connected to the control system (32).

Abstract: A magnetically-actuated switch adapted to control a welding device. The magnetically-actuated switch may comprise a set of electrical connectors that are brought into electrical communication with one another by magnetic force. The magnetically-actuated switch may be disposed within a welding implement coupled to the welding device. The welding implement may be operated by disposing a magnet proximate to the welding implement to actuate the magnetically-actuated switch. The magnet may be disposed within a magnet holder securable to a hand.

Abstract: The invention is an electronic device used to prevent electrical shock to users of arc welding equipment. The device utilizes the electrical power supplied by the welder, it has no internal power supply. The unit is designed with a high amperage SCR, connected between the welder and either the electrode holder or the work-piece. A control circuit is situated in parallel with the SCR and is used to control the SCR. The control circuit constantly monitors the status of the electrode. A high resistance between the electrode and the work-piece causes the unit to revert to an off condition preventing electrical power from reaching the electrode. Upon striking the electrode against the work-piece, the control circuit detects the internal voltage drop that occurs within the control circuit and then outputs an appropriate signal to cause the unit to switch to an on condition. The predetermined resistance value is set to 40 ohms or less.

Abstract: The invention relate to a system, for example a welding system, for running a welding process or related process, having at least one wirelessly communicating component with a transmitter and/or receiver system. At least one mounting unit (28) is provided in the various components of the system, in particular the welding system, which can be fitted with a communication module (29) and at least one connecting mechanism of the mounting unit (28) is connected to an internal data transmission system (32) of the system, in particular the welding system. At least one mounting unit (28) is equipped with a communication module (29) in order to run a signal and/or data transmission.

Abstract: An electric arc welding system for creating an AC welding arc between an electrode and a workpiece wherein the system comprises a first controller for a first power supply to cause the first power supply to create an AC current between the electrode and workpiece by generating a switch signal or command with polarity reversing switching points in the first controller, with the first controller operated at first welding parameters in response to first power supply specific parameter signals to the first controller. The system has at least one slave controller for operating a slave power supply to create an AC current between the electrode and workpiece by reversing polarity of the AC current at switching points where the slave controller is operated at second welding parameters in response to second power supply specific parameter signals to the slave controller.

Abstract: A system and method for managing welding procedures is provided. The invention includes a welding system, a local server and/or a remote system. The invention further provides for searching of the welding system, local server and/or remote system for potentially suitable welding procedure(s). The invention further provides for dynamic creation of welding procedure(s) based upon user input, information stored on the welding system, a local area network and/or a remote system. The invention also includes filtering of the search results based at least in part upon commonality of consumables. The invention further includes calculation of weld costs for potentially suitable welding procedure(s). The invention further provides for communication with an inventory & distribution system and/or ordering system in order to facilitate further automation of the industrial environment.

Abstract: Welding controller 1 has CPU 1a, ROM1 1b, ROM2 1c and RAM 1d. Programs and data are written into the ROM1 1b and can be rewritten. Sequential welding data is written into the RAM 1d and can be rewritten. A write program for writing programs or data or sequential welding data into the ROM1 1b or the RAM 1d is stored in the ROM2 1c. When a welding control program or data or sequential welding data is input into the CPU 1a from an input device 10 or a computer 12, the CPU 1a executes the write program to write the inputted program or data or sequential welding data into the ROM1 1b or the RAM 1d. Preferably, ROM 1b is an in situ programmable memory, such as a flash memory or EEPROM.

Abstract: The invention describes a method of operating a data exchange between an external component, in particular a remote control unit (23), and a welding unit (1), in particular a current source. A serial data exchange is run between a welding unit (1), in particular a current source, and an external component, in particular a remote control unit (23), directly across the welding lines, in particular across the connecting lines (36) to the welding torch (10) and to the workpiece (16), on the basis of digital levels.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for welding is disclosed. The method includes sensing the status of a trigger between an on position and an off position. A system latch is set or released based on the trigger status and the latch status. The system latches on when the trigger is held for a predetermined time (and the latch was previously off). The latch is released when the trigger is pulled and released when the latch was previously on. When the latch is off, pulling the trigger turns the system on, and releasing the trigger before the predetermined time turns the system off. The latch may also be released when welding current drops below a threshold. The time might not start until after welding current is flowing. A welding wire feed speed control potentiometer on a torch is also disclosed. The range of the torch potentiometer is from a minimum to a value dependent on the control panel welding wire feed speed. A run-in wire feed speed control is also disclosed.

Abstract: A welding condition inputting equipment capable of setting the welding conditions such as welding current and welding voltage easily and securely is disclosed. The welding condition inputting equipment comprises an operating section for inputting the welding conditions, a determining section for selecting items, and a display section for displaying selected items. When the welding conditions are input, the operating section outputs the conditions to the determining section. When the conditions are input in the determining section, the determining section selects items relating to welding corresponding to the conditions, and outputs the items to the display section. When the items are input in the display section, the display section displays the items. The operating section specifically includes a dial, a switch, and a push-in dial switch integrally combining a dial rotation detecting part.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for welding is disclosed. It includes a source of power and a controller. An output feedback circuit provides feedback to the controller. The controller includes a comparator that compares the fedback signal to a threshold and/or detects a short on the output. A standby/welding control is responsive to the comparator. Also, an arc end control may be provided that terminates the arc in response to detecting an increase in arc length.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for welding is disclosed. It includes source of power and a controller. An output feedback circuit provides feedback to the controller. The controller includes a comparator that compares the fedback signal to a threshold and/or detects a short on the output. A standby/welding control is responsive to the comparator. Also, an arc end control may be provided that terminates the arc in response to detecting an increase in arc length.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for programming a welding-type system is disclosed. They include storing at least one welding program in a pda and connecting the pda to the welding-type system. Then, the at least one welding program is downloaded to (or a program is uploaded from) the welding-type system. The controller includes a memory and a memory input is connected to the memory and connectable to a pda. The program may be delivered to the pda by email. The connection may be wired, such as RS232), or wireless, such as IR or RF. The program is edited in one embodiment. Also, the connection may be wireless and to a remote memory (such as on a desktop or laptop).

Abstract: The mechanism which is the subject of this patent application is centered on a control device adapted to facilitate the control and regulation of the electrical current or the gaseous intake and mixture for a welding machine, thereby regulating the output of the welding machine, such mechanism including a foot-operated pedal member, which, in turn, is mechanically linked to electro-mechanical means activated by radio transmission means to regulate such electrical current input or the gaseous output.

Abstract: A motor-driven, modular, constant current DC arc welding apparatus configurable for use with consumable or non-consumable electrodes, consisting of: 1) a single, or multiple, electrically inter-connectable, power generating alternator modules fitted with full wave rectifiers, which when interconnected can achieve very high welding currents, exceeding 600 amps.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for welding is disclosed with a remote wire feed speed control potentiometer on a torch is disclosed. The range of the torch potentiometer is from a minimum to a value dependent on the control panel welding wire feed speed. A run-in wire feed speed control is also disclosed. The range of the run-in wire feed speed is from a minimum to a value dependent on the control panel or torch welding wire feed speed.

Abstract: An electric arc welding machine has a housing, an arc-generating device, a current adjusting device and a controller. The arc-generating device is mounted in the housing to generate an electric arc. The current adjusting device has a rotatable shaft, a movable magnetic core and an induction coil. A motor is mounted in the housing to rotate the current adjusting device shaft through a transmission device. The controller has a remote switch unit and a receiver. The switch unit is used to send a control signal from a separate location far from the welding machine. The receiver is mounted on the housing and is electrically connected to the motor to receive the signal sent from the switch unit. The user can adjust the current applied to the arc-generating device at a separate location far from the welding machine. The use of the welding machine becomes more convenient.

Abstract: An electric arc welding system for creating an AC welding arc between an electrode and a workpiece wherein the system comprises a first controller for a first power supply to cause the first power supply to create an AC current between the electrode and workpiece by generating a switch signal or command with polarity reversing switching points in the first controller, with the first controller operated at first welding parameters in response to first power supply specific parameter signals to the first controller. The system has at least one slave controller for operating a slave power supply to create an AC current between the electrode and workpiece by reversing polarity of the AC current at switching points where the slave controller is operated at second welding parameters in response to second power supply specific parameter signals to the slave controller.

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for contact arc ignition in manual TIG welding and to a method for welding with this arrangement. The arc is established by lifting the welding torch (12) after contact between electrode (13) and workpiece (14) under low ignition current. When the arc length is sufficient, the welder orders a change-over to welding current via an operating device (11). The invention can also be used for controlling the supply of heat to the workpiece both during continuous bead application and during the crater filling time at the end of welding. The invention creates reliable ignitions without extensive use of control electronics, and it substantially reduces the electrode wear in manual TIG welding.

Abstract: A control pedal for a welder that controls the output current level of the welder. The control pedal includes a foot pedal, a start switch, and a current level controller. The foot pedal is movable between an off position, an intermediate position, and a fully on position. The start switch initiates a startup sequence for the welder. The current level controller produces a signal that causes the output current level of the welder to vary between a minimum and a maximum current level. The foot pedal causes the start switch to begin the startup sequence prior to the foot pedal causing the current level controller to generate a signal which results in the output current level increasing above the minimum current level.

Abstract: A welding machine foot control has exceptional convenience for routing the control cable to the welding machine and stability against tipping over. The foot control enclosure has openings for the control cable on multiple walls such that the cable can emerge from a desired side of the enclosure for routing convenience. A stabilizer on the bottom of the enclosure adds weight at a low center of gravity. The base has a top flange that mounts over a bottom cover of the foot control enclosure. Multiple walls diverge from the top flange toward a bottom flange. There is a slot through the top flange and adjacent portion of each wall. The cable standing end passes through a notch in a base top flange and associated wall and lies alongside the bottom cover. The cable running end is arranged to emerge from a selected wall of the base through the associated slot. A cable strain relief is formed by an arm in the base.

Abstract: The invention is a welding parameter control device for a welding torch operable by the welders thumb and/or index finger. A forward-located rotary knob or belt is positioned where the torch is of relatively small diameter and comfortable for the welder to hold in the hand. This is coupled to a potentiometer located toward the rear portion of the torch. If a rotary potentiometer is used, the torch diameter here can be increased without discomfort to the welder. By placing the potentiometer in this position it can be much larger and more rugged than would be possible if located at the position of the control knob. If a linear potentiometer is used, the body may be maintained very slim over its entire length. Weld disturbance due to torch movement during current adjustment is virtually eliminated by use of the fingertip operated rotary control.

Abstract: A command and control device for a coupling-welding machine for metal pipes within which the coupling-welding machine is positioned, the machine being movable within the pipe and being operable to weld the metal pipes together. The command and control device including a control unit associated with the machine, a command unit external to the pipe and an energy source connected to an external power supply by a power line, the control unit being cooperatively interconnected with command unit by the same power line.

Abstract: A motor controlled rheostat assembly for a welding torch is disclosed. The assembly comprises a power source, a rheostat having a motor operatively connected thereto for controlling power to the welding torch, the rheostat being electrically connected to the power source and disposed remotely from the welding torch, a switch, connectable to the welding torch, having a first position and a second position, wherein when the switch is depressed toward the first position the motor rotates in a first direction to increase the power to the torch, and when the switch is depressed toward the second position the motor rotates in a second direction to decrease the power to the torch, and when pressure on the switch is released in either the first or second position the motor stops to maintain the power supplied to the torch at the desired level.

Abstract: A command and control device (1) for a coupling-welding machine (2) for metal pipes (3, 4) within which said machine is positioned, said machine (2) being movable within the pipe by drive means (5) and provided with welding means (6) for joining different pieces (3, 4) of said pipe together, the operation of said welding means (6) and drive means (5) being controlled by control means (12) associated with the machine (2) and connected to commanding means (9) external to the pipe. The operation of the machine (2) is controlled by a single microprocessor unit associated with the control means (12).

Abstract: A welder has an electromagnetic switch for turning on and off the power to be supplied to the welder, a control circuit for controlling the turn on and off of this switch according to a starter signal that starts the welder and self-holding circuit for self-holding the switch. This self-holding circuit releases the switch from the self-holding when a voltage of the control circuit lowers to not more than a turn-on voltage of the switch. Therefore, when an applied voltage decreases too low to maintain the turn-on status, the switch is released from its self-holding. A voltage can thus never be applied again to the control circuit unless the starter signal is once turned off. As a result, a coil of the switch is completely free from being burnt out. Also current can be cut off when a temperature of the coil of the switch rises to not less than a given value. Therefore, if an abnormal temperature of the coil is sensed, the coil current is cut off.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for welding is disclosed. The method includes sensing the status of a trigger between an on position and an off position. A system latch is set or released based on the trigger status and the latch status. The system latches on when the trigger is held for a predetermined time (and the latch was previously off). The latch is released when the trigger is pulled and released when the latch was previously on. When the latch is off, pulling the trigger turns the system on, and releasing the trigger before the predetermined time turns the system off. The latch may also be released when welding current drops below a threshold. The time might not start until after welding current is flowing. A welding wire feed speed control potentiometer on a torch is also disclosed. The range of the torch potentiometer is from a minimum to a value dependent on the control panel welding wire feed speed. A run-in wire feed speed control is also disclosed.

Abstract: A welding device is disclosed having a remote control device configured to control an operating parameter of the welding device (e.g., welding current) and a control circuit to receive a remote device signal from the remote control device and to determine the type of remote control device based on the remote device signal. Remote devices may be "trigger only", "hand control", "fingertip control" or "foot control" devices. The welding device further includes an operating parameter selector (e.g., welding amperage) and a welding process selector (e.g., TIG, STICK) mounted on a control panel. The control circuit receives an operating parameter selector signal from the operating parameter selector and a welding process selector signal from the welding process selector, and controls an operating parameter with one of the remote device signal and the operating parameter selector signal based on the welding process selector signal.

Abstract: The invention is a welding parameter control device for a welding torch operable by the welders thumb and/or index finger. A forward-located rotary knob or belt is positioned where the torch is of relatively small diameter and comfortable for the welder to hold in the hand. This is coupled to a rotary potentiometer located toward the rear portion of the torch. Here the torch diameter can be increased without discomfort to the welder. By placing the potentiometer in this position it can be much larger and more rugged than would be possible if located at the position of the control knob. In contrast to the use of a highly miniaturized potentiometer at the control point location, failure rate is greatly reduced. Weld disturbance due to torch movement during current adjustment is virtually eliminated by use of the fingertip operated rotary control.

Abstract: A method and system for remotely controlling operational parameters of welders by communicating over a welding cable thereof with a remote device electrically coupleable between a workpiece and an electrode holder of the welder. The operational parameters include remotely enabling and disabling the welder, remotely choking the engine thereof, remotely controlling coarse and fine current adjustment, and remotely controlling other parameters otherwise controllable from a control panel of the welder.

Abstract: Welding apparatus having selectively operable local and remote current setting devices for selecting and controlling the welding current to be applied across an electrode and workpiece at a welding arc includes a control circuit for sensing the connection and disconnection of the remote current setting device thereto and respectively setting a remote and local mode of welding current control.

Abstract: A foot control for a TIG welding machine utilizes a timing belt that is tensioned between a pedal and an enclosure. The timing belt meshes with a timing gear that is fixed to a rotatable shaft. Pivoting the pedal on the enclosure causes the timing belt to travel past and rotate the gear and shaft. A potentiometer on the shaft also rotates to control the power output of the welding machine. The belt is tensioned by a relatively weak spring in a manner that biases the pedal in one direction on the enclosure. A stronger spring biases the pedal in the opposite direction. The pedal is hinged to the enclosure by resilient tabs on the enclosure having bosses that engage holes in the pedal. The tab bosses can be depressed to disengage the pedal holes and enable the pedal to be removed from the enclosure. A heavy base joined to the enclosure has plates that lie alongside the enclosure tabs such that the tab bosses cannot be depressed out of engagement with the pedal holes when the base is joined to the enclosure.

Abstract: Welding apparatus having selectively operable local and remote current setting devices for selecting and controlling the welding current to be applied across an electrode and workpiece at a welding station includes a control circuit for sensing the connection and disconnection of the remote current setting device thereto and respectively setting a remote and local mode of welding current control.

Abstract: An improved underwater arc-welding apparatus that includes a handheld torch assembly connected to an housing that delivers electrical power, a pressurized shielding gas, and a consumable wire electrode to the site of the weldment. The housing is configured such that the diver/operator, himself, can control such welding parameters as the voltage level of the electrical power, the duration of the flow of the shielding gas, and the delivery rate of the electrode. In addition, the housing is configured to allow the entry of water into the space between its components, and these components, including an electric motor that advances the consumable wire electrode, are sealed individually from the water. Electrical connections between the components are effected using underwater cables and connectors.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for computerized interactive control, measurement and documentation of are welding utilizing a single power source that facilitates continuous precision welding. Operational interactivity between the welding operations and the workpiece operations, in connection with predetermined optimum welding operational parameters, provides contemporaneous feedback of critical welding operational parameters to the welding operator, producing an alarm if welding is attempted outside a first predetermined range of deviation from optimum welding operational parameters and temporarily interrupting power to the welding operation if welding is attempted outside of a second predetermined range of deviation from the optimum welding operation parameters. A complete log of the welding operational parameters is stored for subsequent retrieval and display, providing training and evaluation of welding operators as well as verification of compliance with required welding practices and procedures.

Abstract: A shielding gas pre-flow time control system for a gas metal arc welder for generating an arc simultaneously with the turning on of a torch switch for directing a torch to a normal position while maintaining a sufficient pre-flow time of shielding gas for more than one (1) second. The gas metal arc welder includes a welding power source, a wire feeding device and a welding torch in which, when the torch switch is firstly turned on, only the shielding gas solenoid valve is activated to cause the shielding gas solenoid valve is actuated to cause the shielding gas to be pre-flowed. When the switch is secondly turned on, during the pre-flow time, the wire feeding device is operated and simultaneously a voltage is applied to the wire being fed and an arc is generated so as to start the welding. When the torch switch is turned off, wire feeding device is stopped, the shielding gas feed is stopped and the welding arc is stopped, all at the same time.

Abstract: A multiple operator welding apparatus is disclosed which is particularly well suited for use in stick arc welding, GTAW, FCAW, ACAC, and GMAW arc welding processes. One or more welding modules are selectively mounted in a main power frame and connected to the power source by a knife blade connector which permits removal and replacement of one or more welding modules while the power source is in use. The knife blade connector also permits one or more welding modules to be removed from the main power frame and used at a remote location. The welding module for use with the multiple operator welding apparatus incorporates an inductor which permits use of a reduced incoming module voltage while producing a satisfactory weld. The reduced incoming module voltage results in significant energy savings.