Advantages of arc welding over gas welding

Gas welding just doesn’t cut it anymore. Requiring specialized training and skill, it’s prone to errors and rework, dragging out project timelines. Gas rigs tie up capital and bottleneck production with their slow, manual welding speeds of just 2-5 lbs per hour. There has to be a better way to get these welds done.

What if you could slash welding costs by 50%, speed through projects 3x faster, and eliminate safety risks – all in one? Arc welding makes this vision a reality. By using an electric arc with temperatures up to 6,500°F to melt metal rapidly, it improves on the old gas welding methods. The concentrated heat of the arc far surpasses what any handheld gas torch can output, delivering welding speeds of 6-15 lbs per hour.

Table of Contents

Reasons to love arc welding (benefits)
Key factors to consider when choosing an arc welding equipment brand
Closing statements

Reasons to love arc welding (benefits)

At one manufacturing facility, arc welding sped up their production of steel frames by 200% compared to gas welding. Parts and assemblies get welds faster with arc welders like the Lincoln Electric Ranger 250 GXT delivering up to 250 amps of power.

Arc welding also simplifies the process with wire feed and filler metals to bridge joints precisely, even on complex geometries. Models like the Millermatic 252 excel at flux-cored arc welding for industrial uses. No more hours of training and practice to master quality gas welds. One study found arc welders could complete an industry-standard test in just 7 hours versus 22 hours for beginning gas welders. Arc welding lets anyone become a top-notch welder from day one.

And without dangerous gas tanks, it removes the fire hazards and accidents synonymous with gas welding. One analysis found gas welding caused 30% more accidents per labor hour than arc welding.

Key factors to consider when choosing an arc welding equipment brand

Reputation and reviews – Stick with leading brands like Lincoln Electric, Miller, and ESAB that have proven track records and positive reviews. Avoid cheap knock-offs.
Duty cycle rating – Choose a welder with a duty cycle that matches your workload needs. A higher duty cycle means it can weld at its peak amperage for a greater percentage of the time.
Power supply – Consider the power requirements and if you need 220V or 480V three-phase power. Make sure your electrical system can handle the welder’s needs.
Output range – Match the amperage range to your typical material thicknesses. More output allows welding thicker materials.
Added features – Look for models with auto-set, pulsed MIG, or DC TIG capabilities for easier use and expanded functionality.Warranty and customer service – A good warranty (1-3 years) and strong customer service are signs of a quality brand.
Certifications – Leading brands comply with codes like NEC, OSHA, NEMA, and certifications like CSA or UL listing.
American-made – For accessible service, Lincoln Electric and Miller still manufacture many welders in the USA.

Closing statements

Arc welding’s speed, efficiency, and safety lead to welds getting done faster, easier, and cheaper than ever before. The electric arc revolutionizes welding, keeping workers safe while slashing costs. It’s time to upgrade your operations with arc welding models like the Lincoln Electric Ranger 250 GXT or Millermatic 252 and leave the risks and hassles of gas welding behind for good.

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Rob Steven

I'm Rob Steven with more than 10+ years of experience in the welding field, I have done my welding degree from Central Louisiana Technical Community College, it was always fun and passion for me going into welding. Now being a passionate welder I also blog about welding.