Measuring actual welder amps

   / Measuring actual welder amps #1  

bbrown4804

Bronze Member
Joined
Apr 8, 2011
Messages
56
Location
Northern Colorado
Tractor
1953 Farmall Super M
Being that my two welders are kinda old I got to wondering what the actual number of amps that is being put out? So how would I measure this? I weld anywhere from 20 amps to over 350 amps according to the selector dial.
Bruce
 
   / Measuring actual welder amps #2  
A clamp meter to one of the cables should do it. While welding of course.
 
   / Measuring actual welder amps
  • Thread Starter
#3  
Now what would I look for in a good one without shelling out a ton of money?
 
   / Measuring actual welder amps #4  
If you are measuring DC current make sure to get a DC amp meter. Fluke sells good electrical meters.
 
   / Measuring actual welder amps #5  
Just look for a set of DC Tongs. (meter) Off brands are $30 top names are $300. Hook the tongs over the ground cable while welding..It will read output.. How curious are you? Hook up a 5/32 rod and if it lays a good bead...You're in the money on what ever you build.
 
   / Measuring actual welder amps #6  
A clamp meter will tell you what amperage you are welding at if you are curious. If you are concerned with the output capability of the machine you would need a load bank. Your machine is rated 500 amps at 40 volts at 35% duty cycle and 575 amps max. Getting a clamp meter to read 400 amps while stick or wire welding may still have the welder at only 50 or 60 percent capacity.
 

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