WL200AH 200AMP AC Honda Welder Generator

What is the difference between an AC and DC welder generator?

When welding, it is important to consider the polarity that is created by the welder. DC (direct current) flows in one direction, resulting in a constant polarity. AC (alternating current) flows half the time in one direction and half the time in the other, changing its polarity 100 times per second with 50-hertz frequency.

In most cases, DC is the preferred welding polarity as it produces smoother welding output than AC and the output is at a consistent current level all the time. All electrodes can be operated on DC as there is the option of DC+ (reverse) polarity or DC- ( straight) polarity. For stick welding in general, DC+ polarity is most commonly used. A DC set offers a higher open circuit welding voltage, resulting in greater penetration when the circuit is completed. They also do not need to be switched between welder and generator outputs, but offer a lower generator output than an equivalent AC set.

On the other hand, with AC output, the welding current alternates from positive flow to negative flow and back again. This means that only some electrodes are designed specifically to operate on AC. The electrodes have certain elements in their coating which help keep the arc ignited as the current output alternates and goes through periods of low and no output. An AC set has a lower open circuit welding voltage, resulting in a poorer penetration when the circuit is completed. They also must be manually switched between welder and generator outputs, although an AC welder generator will offer a higher generator output in comparison to an equivalent DC set.

What is the maximum size welding rod I can use with my welder generator?

130A welder = 2.5mm

170 / 180A welder = 3.25mm

200A welder = 4mm

220A welder = 5mm

Order before 1pm and we will deliver your order free of charge the next working day (Monday - Friday) on all in-stock items - UK only for items over £125.00. Geographical supplements will apply to deliveries to all the following postcodes and all non-mainland UK addresses.

BT, IV,KW 1-14, PA21-40, PH 19-26 30-40 41 49 50 and all non-mainland UK addresses

Please note that deliveries to these post codes are an estimated 2-3 days. Please contact us for delivery charges to all post codes above and all non-mainland UK addresses and we will calculate the most cost effective way to deliver your items

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