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Welding power supplies are essential to the process of arc welding. They provide controlled electrical currents, which are used to create precise, durable joins. Unlike generic power sources, these specialized systems convert building or generator power into currents tailored for specific welding processes.

How Do Welding Power Supplies Work?

Welding power supplies are not primary power sources but sophisticated modulators. Older power supplies use transformers to adjust voltage, amperage, and polarity. Modern power supplies are more likely to use insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) inverters for the same purpose. Shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) often require combined inverter-transformer systems with advanced controls to sustain stable arcs.

Critical Controls in Welding Power

Here are a few things that a welder can control when using a welding power supply. At welding school, these professionals learn how to adjust these variables to create the ideal arc.

  • Voltage determines arc length. A higher voltage is able to bridge larger gaps between the electrode and workpiece.
  • Amperage governs heat input. A higher amperage increases melting and penetration.  
  • Polarity is the direction of electron flow. Straight polarity is standard, but reverse polarity benefits processes like SMAW.  

Types of Welding Currents and Their Applications

Here are the main types of welding currents that are used in welding jobs.

Direct Current (DC)

Direct current has a unidirectional electron flow. It creates stable arcs and produces smoother welds than other types of current. It’s ideal for welding jobs that involve steel, such as GTAW for stainless steel and exotic alloys.  

Alternating Current (AC)

Alternating current has a bi-directional electron flow, with polarity reversing over 100 times per second. It’s very useful for breaking oxide layers on aluminum, and reduces heat buildup compared to other types of current. AC is essential for aluminum GTAW.

Pulsed Current

Pulsed current alternates between high-peak and low-background DC. It has a low heat distortion and enhances penetration for thin metals or thick joints. It’s used for precision welding in aerospace or medical equipment. 

Adaptive Pulse Technology

Adaptive pulse technology automatically adjusts voltage and wire feed speed using real-time feedback. Its main advantage is that it can deliver consistent arc quality, even with uneven surfaces or welder  

Learn to Weld: How Welding School Can Help

Mastering these technologies demands hands-on education. Programs like the Welding Program at ETI School of Skilled Trades equip students with a range of skills. These include power supply operation. Students learn how to configure transformers, inverters and multiprocess machines.

The program also teaches advanced techniques, such as GTAW, SMAW, and orbital welding. These techniques are very useful for welding jobs in industries like aerospace and energy. Students can expect to graduate with specialized credentials that equip them for high-demand roles. Welding jobs are likely to stick around no matter what, which means great job stability for graduates.

Ready to get the skills you need for this exciting career?  Enroll in the ETI welding program.

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