36 Lab Tips: Steps Before Welding

If you already know how to set up and use a wire feed welding machine, congratulations, this page is not for you!

If you are unfamiliar with wire feed welding, please read this before you start welding.

All of LWTech’s wire feed setups use a power source with a separate wire feeder. The wire feeders are mounted to the side of the concrete booths, they are mounted upside down in that the power and read outs are facing down towards the ground. Check to make sure your wire feeder is turned on.

Find the power source associated with the booth you are going to be using. The power sources have a 100% Duty Cycle and can be run almost indefinitely, this means that the fans inside are always running and can be very loud. Wear ear plugs!

We have both digital and analog read outs on our power supplies. Both, have a large power on/off switch, and a dial to indicate which process you are doing. Check to see if it’s on GMAW or FCAW. There should be an image on the dial to indicate the type of welding gun you’re using.

All the leads should be already connected. If the leads are not connected or you cannot find them, please find an instructor to help you.

Double check that the plastic screens are down and you have all your personal protective equipment, or PPE, before you start welding.