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This is our review of the best generator for welding in 2023.
A professional welder may be called to a location where there is no or limited access to electricity. Having reliable power generator on hand is crucial in times like these.
One solution is an engine-driven welder generator.
If you need to do some welding out in the middle of nowhere, one of these portable tools is just what you need. Engine-driven welders are helpful for their ability to power welding equipment and the additional electricity they can provide to other electrical tools and machinery, such as power drills and plasma cuts. Therefore, welder generator combinations perform the functions of both a welder and a generator.
We recommend TOMAHAWK 15 HP Engine Driven Portable Generator as the best generator for welding.
After a lot of investigation, we've compiled a list of the top 7 best generator for welding.
So Let's get started.
7 Best Generators for Welding
The Tomahawk TWG210A Welder Generator can produce 210 Amps of DC output at 60% duty cycle, making it ideal for welding applications that require a lot of power.
Perfect for any setting where CC (constant current) stick welding is needed, including farms, building sites, and garages. Wheels in the rear provide mobility for on-site welding and can be used to generate backup electricity in an emergency. This welder generator from Tomahawk features a 15HP engine that produces 2000 watts of DC electricity, allowing you to weld in any location.
This device continues to start up every time. Stick soldering on it is fantastic. This welder is ideal for anyone just getting started in the welding industry or for a small company. Compared to the similar Miller or Lincoln models, which are significantly more costly and have lower Amps and duty cycles.
One of the happy customers who has used it for many years reviewed it as " I've been using this particular welder for the past calendar year to great effect in running my mobile welding company. I wholeheartedly endorse this product. Most reliable and affordable mid-range welder available."
Specification for TOMAHAWK 15 HP Engine Driven Portable Generator
Voltage: 120V Engine Type: 15 Horsepower
At 210 amps, it is considered to be quite powerful.
Dinse DKJ16-35 Welding Connection Type is compatible with welding rods ranging in size from 6010 to 7024.
Welding thickness: 1/3, 1/4, 3/8 inch Motor displacement: 420 cc
Surge Watts : 2000
Surge Amps: 50
DuroMax XP12000HX is a dual fuel Generator. The upgraded dashboard features a digital multimeter, push-button ignition, and a gasoline interface in the front for instantaneous fuel swaps. Voltage, frequency, overall run time, and service intervals are all displayed on the digital multimeter.
You can choose between gasoline and propane to power this engine.
DuroMax's "CO Alert Technology" immediately turns off the generator if a dangerous level of carbon monoxide is discovered.
This generator will meet your hopes. Using propane gas, it functioned as anticipated once assembly was complete. The output voltage read 230 V.
Powder coating protects the all-metal construction of the chassis. It's perfect for welding and power outages. It is a high-quality generator.
This sturdy generator is powered by a 460cc OHV DuroMax motor and is outfitted with ALL COPPER WINDINGS for maximum durability.
It is a transfer switch equipped with four 120V GFCI household outlets, one 120V 30AMP outlet, one 120/240V 30AMP twist-lock outlet, and a heavy-duty 120V 240V 50AMP outlet.
Specification for DuroMax XP12000HX Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Type of engine: 4-CYCLE AIR-COOLED SPARK-IGNITION
Displacement of engine: 460 cc
Fuel: gasoline or propane
Power source: gas
voltage: 240 volts
Output Wattage: 12000 Watts
Power your welding, construction site, campsite, or house appliances with the A-iPower SUA12000's 12,000 starting and 9,000 running watts.
The 459cc OHV 4-stroke motor is built to last, and it features an oil-level indicator and automatic shutoff when the oil gets too low. Long operating times of 7 hours at full weight and 9 hours at half load are made possible by the 7-gallon gasoline tank.
This generator will exceed your expectation. You can use it for welding with standard sticks and mig tools.
One of the customers said - "I bought a 12000-watt gas model and am very pleased with it; I installed a 50-amp breaker with 6-gauge wire and a breaker lock in my electrical panel; then I turned off the main breaker and secured it. Of course, a generator of this magnitude wouldn't be particularly quiet. And I am pleased with this generator."
You can use it to run your complete house, and it works perfectly. You can turn on the 65-inch TV, lights, two air conditioners, a fridge, and more.
Features an Electric Launch button for instantaneous power whenever you need it. Rubber covers have been installed on all electrical receptacles for extra protection.
Specification for A-iPower SUA12000E 12000 Watt Portable Generator
Wattage: 9000
Type of fuel: gasoline
Source of power: gas-powered
Engine type: 4 strokes
Tank size: 7 gallons
Run Time: 7 hours
The WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V dual-fuel portable generator comes with a wheel kit and its electric start generator.
Also, it converts from 120 to 240 volts with ease, which is ideal for use in transfer switches and emergency backup systems. The 457cc 4-stroke OHV motor is powered by an electric starter.
You can use it for 8.5 hours at 50 percent capacity from a 6.6-gallon tank.
Included in the package are four 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), one 120V 30A twist lock outlet (L5-30R), one 120V/240V 50A outlet (NEMA 14-50R), a 12V DC cigarette lighter plug, oil, a 47-inch LPG connection hose, and a guarantee that lasts for two years.
Here is one of the customers who said, "My 225amp Forney cutter and other welding gear were all powered without a hitch by this generator. As a final test after breaking in the engine, I turned it on full blast to run six 1500-watt space heaters, and it performed flawlessly."
Specification for WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Weight of Item: 214.00 lbs
Power Source: Dual Fuel
Voltage: 120 volts
Wattage: 11000.0
Run Tmime : 8.5 hours at 50 percent capacity
Westinghouse 12500 watts is another powerful generator that produces 9500 running watts. It's an electric and recoil start generator.
With its 6.6-gallon fuel tank, you will get a 12-hour operating time on a single fill-up. Also, In addition to the two 5V USB ports and two 120V 5-20R GFCI outlets, there is also a 120V L14-30R GFCI outlet, a 120V/240V 14-50R GFCI outlet, and a 120V/240V RV ready receptacle.
High-duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-stroke OHV engine with cast iron sleeve, low-oil shutoff, and digital meter with a quick connect socket.
One of the customers confirmed its good for welding works. In their words, "Incredibly efficient! There were times when we needed to do welding, so having a generator on hand was essential. Our previous generator only produced 75 Amps and was powered by a 10HP motor, which was inadequate for welding. It was necessary for us to solder at 150 Amps."
The stability of this generator is excellent. And you will notice that the electric starter is fantastic. Also, some customers confirmed they only use propane because it lasts forever and doesn't leave a smell in the cargo container.
And this Westinghouse portable generator is EPA/CARB compliant. Westinghouse generators provide a warranty that covers service, labor, and parts for three years.
Specification for Westinghouse 12500 Watt Generator
Wattage: 12500
Type of fuel: gasoline
Engine type: 4-stroke
Ignition system: electronic
Tank size: 6.6 gallons
Run time: 12 hours and 8 power outlets
Pulsar G12KBN dual-fuel generator on gasoline produces 12,000 maximum power output and 9,500 minimum power output. And on the gas, 10,800 maximum power output and 8,550 minimum power output.
Having backup electricity in the event of a power outage is a necessity for any homeowner. It is also helpful for any welding jobs performed away from home.
The ability to switch between gasoline and liquid petroleum gas (LPG) is convenient in the event of an emergency or natural calamity. Electric start protects the 457cc single-cylinder, air-cooled OHV motor with powder coating.
When operating on gasoline, an 8-gallon fuel tank allows for up to 12 hours of continuous operation at half load. There is plenty of room for plugging in tools, utilities, and more. It has 10" never-flat wheels and fold-down handles, making it simple to transport and store.
And one of the happy customers said, "It rolls around uneven ground without too much trouble, and despite its weight, I have no problem carrying it for extended distances a strong beginning. Changing to gas is simple. Furthermore, the carburetor draining procedure is simple. Like it a lot."
Specification for Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator
Power: 12,000 watts
Type of Fuel: Gasoline and LPG
Power Source: Dual Fuel
Weight of Item: 209 Pounds
Type of engine: 4 Stroke
Tank size: 8 Gallons
Time to run: 12 hours
When it comes to outdoor power tools, there is a company called All Power America. All Power America launched in 2005 and immediately started selling to stores and independent dealers across North America. They make horizontal and vertical engines, gas and propane generators, pressure washers, water pumps, and a variety of other small engine accessories.
All Power 12000-watt portable generator is another good option for use in emergencies, as a secondary power source at home, in a trailer, or while camping. With only 8 gallons of unleaded gasoline or a gas tank, the APGG12000GL can run for 10 hours at half capacity. With this feature, it's convenient to use and carry around. Turn it on, fill the gas/propane canister (both conveniently located), and you're good to go.
All Power America generator on gas has the highest output of 12,000 watts and the lowest output of 9,000 watts. On LPG highest output is 9,500 watts, and the lowest output is 7,250 watts.
The tank can hold 8 gallons of fuel. The noise output while in operation is 76 dB; Push the Button, and Recoil commences Electric Start.
Three 120V AC 20A receptacles, one 120V AC 30A twist-lock outlet, one 120/240V AC 30A twist-lock outlet, and one 120V/240V AC 50A outlet;
It comes with a flat-free tire kit, and a maintenance-free battery included.
Specification for All Power America APGG12000GL 12000 Watt Generator
Weight: 229 kg.
Fuel Type: Dual Fuel
Power output: 12,000 volts
Types of Fuel: Gasoline and LPG
Tank: 8 Gallons
Runtime: 10 hours
The Best Welder Generator—Buying Guide
You may discover that finding a welding generator is more complicated than anticipated. So that you can learn the best welder generator for your needs, We'll take a quick look at the features that make an excellent welder generator, then get to work solving those complex welding issues
Electricity Output
In most cases, a welder generator's cost will be directly proportional to its power production. The greater the rated power, the more you can expect to pay for it. Cheaper welder generators are made specifically to run a welder, but this means they can only produce a limited amount of electricity. However, high-end welders have enough capacity to power additional tools like angle grinders and plasma cutters.
AC/DC Electricity
Electric current is used during the arc welding procedure in either an alternating or direct current configuration. Welding with DC output results in a more steady and smooth arc with less spatter. The reason for this is that direct current (DC) always flows in the same direction.
However, AC power has an alternating current that makes welding a bit less seamless and results in more spatter than DC power. Arc blow problems are resolved, and the metal is made much more appropriate for welding because the oxide is stripped away.
Although most engine-driven welder generators can alternate between DC and AC power, it is important to remember that some models can only supply one.
Capacity for Welding
Stick welding is the most prevalent type of welding done with engine-driven welders, so this is how they are primarily used. Special welding processes, such as TIG welding, require powerful generators to support those processes; some welders have them. For flux core welding, some models also accommodate MIG welders. However, the correct attachments and welding wires are essential for MIG and TIG welding.
Transport
The size and shape of the welder generator you purchase should be determined partly by your transit options.
Heavy generators are not recommended for transport due to the lack of wheels and a protective roll cage, but they can be simply set up in the back of a vehicle.
A compact generator is preferable if you need to transport your welder generator from one location to another or if the welder generator could be accidentally knocked over or damaged in some other way.
Cycle
A machine's duty cycle is the maximum time it can safely draw a given current quantity. A smaller value (expressed as a percentage) means that the welder generator can be used for a shorter period before its cycle ends and it powers down. When researching engine welding, this is another crucial consideration.
Using Numerous devices
The generator size you select should be raised if you plan on using it to power more than just your welding machine at once.
Power consumption increases with each additional appliance connected to the generator. Identifying the size of the generator you need requires some basic knowledge.
How much wattage does it take to run all of your gadgets? This information is typically listed on a label near the device's power cable. Watts are typically used, but amps are sometimes noted, especially when discussing welding equipment.
Other Things
Sometimes you might have specific requirements, and those may also affect your buying decision as highlighted below.
Problems with High Altitude
When you go up high, there is less oxygen. Engines that run on gasoline, diesel, or propane work less well, producing less power. When you are high, your welding generator will have less wattage than at sea level. Generator makers expect a power loss of 3.5% for every 1,000 feet of altitude.
Depending on how high you are, you might not even notice it, or you might feel a lot less power. Kits for high altitudes are made by companies that make generators.
Running Time
As long as the gasoline tank is full, the generator can keep up with the load for this long. Though some can operate for up to 10 hours without refueling, larger generators may need to be refueled every couple of hours when under heavy load.
Generator Size Chart For Welders
The chart below will help you figure out what size generator you need based on the size of your welder.
Welder’s Amperage | Generator Min Watts Required | Generator Recommended Watts |
|---|---|---|
Less than 100A | 3000 watts | 4000 watts |
120-160A | 4500 watts | 6500 watts |
180-200A | 6500 watts | 8000 watts |
210-250A | 10000 watts | 13000 watts |
This is just a general thought. But it is also a good idea. You can try some new things, but don't go too far from what experts say.
Advice and Tips on Using a Generator for Welding
First and important this to find out how many watts your welder needs to function properly. Calculate the maximum wattage by multiplying the highest amps and voltage listed on the data plate.
Make sure to factor in the wattage of any lamps, fans, or other welding accessories you'll need.
Think of it as a loss of 3.5 percent of the power for every kilometer you climb in height.
A good rule is to get a generator that can put out 25-30 percent more power than you'll actually need.
It's possible for voltage and frequency surges to be more severe in generators that are undersized. Both the engine and the welder are being overworked. Welding becomes more challenging as a result.
In the event of load variations, a generator operating at 50-60% capacity is better equipped to deal with the situation than one operating at 90% capacity or higher.
Before turning on or turning off the generator, make sure the welder is unplugged.
Disable any fuel-saving features while welding to ensure that the generator runs at maximum speed at all times.
Keep a steady supply of clean gasoline in the tank. Running a bead requires constant power, so you should never disconnect the engine from the welder.
Make sure the generator is always in good working condition by performing routine maintenance. Avoid using your welder with a malfunctioning engine.
Avoid Using Damaged or Undersized Cords. To help you choose the right length of extension cable for your welder, we've provided some guidelines below.
Safety Tips to use a generator for welding
The generator must always be used in a well-ventilated open area.
Connect direct-current equipment to the generator.
Never overload a generator beyond its wattage capacity, and only use it to power essential tools.
Always make sure - The generator is turned off before adding gasoline. To prevent gasoline from leaking onto the engine while it is running. No smoking or sparking is allowed near the gasoline.
Take care to connect the generator to the appropriate extension cords.
Make sure there is nothing over the wires that could cause overheating. And are set up where they won't endanger anyone's safety by becoming a fall hazard.
Be extra careful when working with the generator's wiring and other electrical components if you find yourself in a damp area.
Keep a fire extinguisher that has been authorized and is fully charged near your generator at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions about Welding Generators
In this section you will get answers to common questions about the best generator for welding and tips for safety and optimizing performance.
In what ways is a generator best suited for a specific sort of welder?
Finding a welder that meets your welding requirements while being compatible with the generator you plan to use can be challenging.
A welder plugged into a regular 115v outlet at home is suggested.
A generator with a 30 amp outlet is needed for use with other types of welders that demand more power.
How many watts does a welder use?
In general, a typical welder uses between 3,000 and 15,000 watts. Most welders work with 90 to 220 volts and 20 to 200 amps of input current. The different types of welding that can be done with each machine also affect how much electricity is used.
Stick welders, being smaller, won't need as much power as MIG welders. You must familiarize yourself with the generator's and welder's specs to avoid damage.
How can I use a generator with my welder without getting hurt?
To safely use your welder with your generator, make sure you get the right size generator, have the right extension cords, and run the welder and generator according to the instructions from the manufacturer.
Can you use a generator with an inverter welder?
Yes! Inverter welders can be used with generators because they have smaller transformers and use less power. Since they use less power, you can plug them in almost anywhere, even in your own home.
The best thing about inverter welders is that they are small and easy to move. So you can bring it to the site with your generator.
If I want to run a welder that draws 140 amps, what size engine do I need?
Many 140-amp welders will start with less than 30 amps, but some need as much as 40 amps.
To be safe, get the maximum amps rating and multiply it by the voltage to get the maximum watts. A 140-amp welder will need between 3600 and 4800 watts to work well.
Can a welder be powered by a 3000-watt generator?
Twenty-five amps of current can be made by a 3000-watt generator that puts out 120 volts (Amps = Watts/Volts).
Even though many 120V welders need more amps to start up at full power, a small welder that puts out 90 to 100 amps should work.
Can a welder be powered by a 5000-watt generator?
Yes, a 5000-watt generator is perfect for 120V welders that start up using less than 40 amps, which is most 120V welders up to 160 amps.
But for most 240V machines to work at full power, they need more than 5000 watts.
Conclusion
One of the generators, as mentioned earlier, is ideal for welding in remote locations. Powering welding equipment and providing electricity for other electrical tools and machines, like power drills and plasma cutters, are both benefits of engine-driven welders. To that end, welder generator sets serve as both a welder and a generator.
And we recommend TOMAHAWK 15 HP Engine Driven Portable Generator as the best generator for welding.
Hope you can benefit from our detailed guide about the best generator for welding