Deciding to start out in the welding and metal working industry is a great choice of career path and a challenging, fun and addictive skill to learn as a hobby, too.
But what do you need to get started?
With so many products available on the market, we've cherry picked a handful of key items you might want to consider adding to your welding and metal working shopping list. All items are available from the Rapid Welding website, just follow the links for more detailed information and full specification. Alternatively, feel free to contact us to discuss your requirements in person: Tel. 02392 214214 or Email: webenquiries@rapidwelding.com
Multi-Process Welder
Choosing your preferred welding method isn't easy when starting out, and unless you're looking for a process specific unit such as an AC/DC Tig welder or MIG welding machine, then a great all-round multi-process welder covers all bases. The beauty of multi-process is that it can operate several different welding styles from one unit, such as MIG, TIG, STICK or flux-core, meaning you can learn different types of welding without needing to invest in multiple welding machines.
Probably the best multi-process welder on the market and a sound investment is the Fronius TranSteel 2200c. Robust, reliable and lightweight, the TransSteel 2200c is a compact, multiprocess-capable solution bringing together MMA, MIG/MAG and TIG in a single device.
Rapid Welding stocks a wide range of welding machines from quality brands such as Lincoln Electric, Esab and Kemppi, for which we are approved suppliers. Top tip: When you view any welding machine on the Rapid Welding website, you can also click on 'buy parts' to see associated items such as wire, torches and contact tips relating to the specific machine.
PPE
Obviously protective gear is a must.
High on your list of priorities should be the best quality welding helmet your budget will allow. A great example would be the ever popular Optrel Crystal auto-darkening welding helmet, offering a practically unclouded and clear view of your working environment. The correct helmet should provide complete protection, from flying materials to blinding lights as well as being right for your chosen welding application. We understand that selecting a welding helmet comes down to many factors including personal preference, so to help you make your choice we have put together a useful Welding Helmet Guide, so you can make sure your safety is never compromised.
As well as welding helmets, Rapid also offers a full complement of safety-wear and equipment. Consider purchasing a pair of quality welding gloves, such as our best selling Ultima Gold Tig Gauntlet or the Red/Gold Premium Gauntlet.
Safety glasses like the Esab Warrior clear UV safety specs are also a worthwhile and inexpensive addition to your kit.
While we're on the subject of safety, it might be worth looking into appropriate fume extraction. The Plymovent PHV - Portable High Vacuum - Welding Fume Extractor is fully mobile and compact enough for small workshops, garages or confined spaces.
Consumables
Most people have a grinder these days, it's just one of those things you pick up while shopping, isn't it? But what about consumables? We stock a large range of abrasive products such as the great value 3M Cubitron Fibre discs; perfect for stainless and available in any size to suit your grinder. In fact, we have a whole section dedicated to all things consumable related, including MIG and TIG wire, flux and rods.
Welding Table
The Nomad economy welding table is engineered to provide a safe, transportable, affordable and versatile welding surface. Ideal for small workshops or garages, the Nomad can be set up wherever you're working so you can bring your table to your work, not your work to your table. This excellent value welding table is also height adjustable for comfort.
Learning Your Trade
Finally, you could consider purchasing some welding reading material. Whether you're a complete beginner or a more experienced welder wishing to hone your skills, we have a great selection of books offering practical and comprehensive guides to welding projects, design ideas and day-to-day applications such as farm and workshop welding.
Happy Shopping
