Anyone ever made a cheap stick welder?

[ryan2022]

Ive seen this from several sources.

It looks like the best way is to use two transformers from microwave ovens.

You basically rewire the secondaries and link them together. Then wire them to a ground and the electrode holder.

It can be as simple and cheap as you want, or a little more elaborate from what Ive read.

Its looks kind of um.....dangerous. Any thoughts, on making one safely?

http://www.instructables.com/id/Build-a-Microwave-Transformer-Homemade-Welder/

 

[tom slick]

I wonder what the amperage and duty cycle is? Is it adjustable? Looks like a great way to make mediocre welds at best.

I'd rather pick up a used buzz box for less than $100 and have a more versatile machine.

 

[ryan2022]

that was what I was weighing it against.

Apparently depending on how you wind the transformers, it can be quite strong.

Although, I value my life. lol. It just does not seem safe to me.

 

[tig1]

Originally Posted By: tom slick
I wonder what the amperage and duty cycle is? Is it adjustable? Looks like a great way to make mediocre welds at best.

I'd rather pick up a used buzz box for less than $100 and have a more versatile machine.


If you want a real welder buy a good used one from Craig's List.

 

[Chris142]

You can weld with car batteries. Alot easir than trying to build your own welder. You can also buy a special alternator thats designed to be used as a welder.

 

[SecondMonkey]

Don't try and rewire the transformer unless you REALLY know what you're doing. I use a microwave transformer that puts out around 2,000 volts to make a giant electric arc. (don't ask) It will kill you in a tenth of a second.

 

[The_Jeff]

Though you can weld with batteries there's still some reason (inductance?) just beyond my grasp why you have to loop your cables a specific way... to keep the batteries from blowing up.

Otherwise I like the macgyver aspect of this thread.

 

[SecondMonkey]

Originally Posted By: eljefino
Though you can weld with batteries there's still some reason (inductance?) just beyond my grasp why you have to loop your cables a specific way... to keep the batteries from blowing up.

That's not true. Stick 3 batteries together, add some jumper cables, and BANG, you've got a welder. The issue is there is no way to control the amperage, you'd just blow a hole through something thin. If you use some sort of resistor (a small wire or something) between the batteries you can control it slightly.

Also, you want your welding a good distance from the batteries, since normal non-sealed batteries give off hydrogen when you discharge them that hard.