Buying welders
What to look for when buying multi-process welders
Quick answer
When buying multi-process welders: match output class to your thickness needs, check duty cycle at working amps (not the marketing number), confirm the plug suits your power supply, and weigh Australian service support over spec-sheet watts.
The checklist
- Output class matched to your real thickness range (not aspirational)
- Duty cycle quoted at the amps you'll actually run
- 10 A plug vs 15 A circuit — know before you buy
- RCM compliance mark and a supplier who answers the phone
- Consumables available locally: tips, liners, torch parts
- For lasers: rated eyewear, wavelength, service network — not just watts
The spec-sheet traps
Claimed maximum amps on cheap machines often assume unrealistic input power and near-zero duty cycle. A trade-grade 180 A machine at 35% duty out-welds a claimed '250 A' bargain box in every real-world session. On lasers, beam quality and cooling determine sustained performance more than the wattage on the decal.