FAQ
TL;DR: 70-80 A can cleanly weld 1.5 mm sheet [Elektroda, lukas548, post #8326715]; "You can't learn to weld without access to a welding machine" [Elektroda, Zbyszek-G, post #6003948] Start hands-on, back up with theory, choose the right welder, and wear eye protection.
Why it matters: This FAQ gives first-time welders a roadmap from buying gear to laying strong, safe beads at home.
Quick Facts
• Entry-level electrode welders cost PLN 300–400 on Allegro [Elektroda, mac9366, post #6523839]
• 250 A transformer units struggle on <2 mm sheet, causing burn-through [Elektroda, Gatesystem, post #6523749]
• MIG/MAG (GMAW) is preferred for 0.8–2 mm steel panels [Elektroda, piotrekchopin, post #12407877]
• 70–80 A with Ø2.5 mm rod suits 1.5 mm sheet [Elektroda, lukas548, post #8326715]
• Typical hobby inverters offer 60 % duty cycle at 150 A [Miller, 2023]
What’s the simplest welding method for a complete beginner?
Stick (MMA) remains the cheapest entry point: one machine, electrode holder, and clamps. You can weld mild steel outdoors and tolerate rusty surfaces. Users confirm fast learning when paired with practice [Elektroda, awerew, post #6003920] Downsides: slag cleanup and harder thin-sheet control. If you plan bodywork, start with a small MIG instead [Elektroda, piotrekchopin, post #12407877]
Which welder should I buy to learn at home?
Buy a 160–200 A inverter stick welder that runs on 230 V. It strikes arcs easily, weighs <6 kg, and costs ≈PLN 600–800. Inverters give smoother beads than budget transformers [Elektroda, lukas548, post #8321234] Ensure it has at least a 60 % duty cycle at 100 A for continuous practice [Miller, 2023].
How much will a basic hobby welder set me back?
Forum users found serviceable units for PLN 300–400 on Allegro and PLN 500–600 in stores [Elektroda, mac9366, post #6523839] Add PLN 150 for PPE (auto-dark helmet, gloves) and PLN 50 for starter electrodes. Total: about PLN 500–800 all-in.
How do I stop burning holes in 1 mm–2 mm sheet metal?
- Drop current to 60–80 A.
- Use Ø2.0–2.5 mm electrodes or switch to 0.8 mm MIG wire.
- Stitch-weld: short 1-second tacks spaced 20 mm apart, then fill gaps.
Gatesystem burned through thin stock with a 250 A stick set on its minimum [Elektroda, 6523749]; MIG cured the issue [Elektroda, piotrekchopin, post #12407877]
Do I really need a formal welding course?
For hobby fences, self-study plus practice works. Still, structured courses add safety, positions PA–PG, and issue EU-recognised certificates [Elektroda, RadekkEdekk, post #12012631] Expect 40–60 h training and ~PLN 1500 fee. "Courses refine, practice perfects" [Elektroda, Tomek 265, #13163044].
What amperage and electrode size for 1.5 mm mild steel?
Set 70–80 A with a fresh Ø2.5 mm rutile rod; users report clean, hole-free welds [Elektroda, lukas548, post #8326715] Keep a 20° rod angle and move fast to limit heat input.
Is home welding dangerous—can I get electrocuted?
Stick welders use high current but only 20–100 V, below lethal thresholds. "The electricity will not caress you because it is low voltage" [Elektroda, Tomek 265, #13568400]. Main risks are UV flash and burns; wear auto-dark helmets and leather gloves.
What books or videos help me learn theory fast?
Classics: Stefan Okoniewski’s “Machine Technology” covers welding basics [Elektroda, LuckyDj, post #6525395] Add Leon Mistur’s “Gas Shielded Arc Welding” for MIG/TIG [Elektroda, Tomek 265, #13163044]. For video, the Weldingtipsandtricks YouTube channel offers free step-by-step demos [Elektroda, V541, post #13188048]
Why pick an inverter welder over a transformer box?
Inverters deliver stable DC, hot-start, and weigh 70 % less than coil transformers. Users saw visibly nicer beads after switching [Elektroda, lukas548, post #8321234] Power savings up to 30 % are common because efficiency exceeds 80 % [Lincoln, 2022].
My cheap welder trips thermal protection every 2 minutes—what now?
Budget machines often have small heat sinks and 10 % duty cycles. Let it cool 5 minutes per 1 minute weld or upgrade to a 60 % duty model. Edge case: continuous trips can burn the fan and void warranty [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #8327727]
How do I set up a safe practice routine?
- Clamp ground directly to the workpiece.
- Tack-weld scrap 5 cm coupons for 15 minutes daily.
- Inspect, grind, and re-run until beads look like stacked coins.
Consistent micro-sessions build muscle memory and keep heat on small parts manageable.
What brands get positive mentions in the thread?
Bester transformers earned praise from a welding teacher as “very good Polish” gear [Elektroda, awerew, post #6007815] Einhell transformers appear in UK purchases [Elektroda, calus18, post #11011874] Many hobbyists rely on no-name Allegro inverters but upgrade after skill grows.
