Wire Feeders
This device feeds the electrode wire at a specified rate to the welding arc. A constant speed wire feeder is used with a CV power source. Voltage is set at the power source while the wire feed speed that controls amperage is set at the constant speed feeder. A voltage sensing or variable speed wire feeder can be paired with a CC or CV power source. When paired with CC power source, amperage is adjusted at the power source and voltage varies directly with the distance (arc length) between the electrode and the workpiece. An open/bench type feeder or a boom mounted feeder is typically used in shops, while portable feeders are used on jobsites.
Top Problems with MIG Welding Consumables . . . and How to Fix Them

Take a close look at the impact of welding consumables on your overall operation, not just the purchase price. Here are some key tips on how to properly select, install and maintain consumables and troubleshoot problems when they arise – and, better yet, how to prevent them in the first place.
Take a close look at the impact of welding consumables on your overall operation, not just the purchase price. Here are some key tips on how to properly select, install and maintain consumables and troubleshoot problems when they arise – and, better yet, how to prevent them in the first place.
The problem may be as simple as a loose contact tip or something more complex, like incorrect TCP. Understanding the steps for proper troubleshooting helps narrow down potential causes, prevents replacement of components that don’t need replacing, and quickly gets you back to producing quality parts.
Each of these terms have specific definitions, and using them interchangeably can cause confusion that puts amperage out of the specified range. Understanding the terms being used and how they are defined by AWS provides clarity that can help prevent mistakes and rework.
You need to minimize birdnesting, erratic wire feed speed and other problems that are causing unplanned downtime and costing you money. So what technologies should you look for when you choose a durable suitcase wire feeder for the jobsite?
Use these answers to refresh and refine your skills and take your MIG welding operation to the next level.
RobustFeed Pro is part of the RobustFeed wire feeders and Heavy Industrial Warrior® and Aristo® power sources, covering the needs of nearly all shops.
Demo Box contains everything needed to start welding: power source, feeder, wire, cables, guns, PPE and extra contact tips.
Lincoln Electric’s Prism Compact fume-extraction system for welding and cutting applications incorporates the Prism line’s vertical filter technology. Available in indoor and outdoor configurations, the short unit fits efficiently into smaller spaces.