How to Save Money When Buying automatic pipe welding machine

A low quality welding machine is difficult to work with and, in my experience, leads to a lot of unnecessary re-work. Every shop owner wants to buy the best and newest machines, but this is often way out of the equipment budget. So they settle for cheap machines built offshore or used welders bought at auction.

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There is another option.

Instead of buying new or renting the machines, you can buy one on the used welder market that is several years old, but you must be smart about it. There are advantages and pitfalls to purchasing used welding machines, and in this guide, I will give you the knowledge you’ll need to make an informed purchasing decision.

Once you’ve read through this guide, check out Red-D-Arc’s used equipment sales page to see all their used welders for sale.

Before You Buy a Used Welder

“Ultimately, the only way to ensure you’re getting a quality machine is to rely on established retailers who have a track record of supplying reliable, well-maintained welding equipment.”

You can’t just run out and buy any used welding machine. You must go into the search with a plan and understand exactly what you need. Take the time to think about what welding processes you’ll be using and the features that you need a machine to have.

Also, consider the skill, experience, and training of your welders and fabricators. It doesn’t make sense to spend extra money on a high-end welder with the most advanced features if your employees are not able to use them. I’ve worked in several shops where top-of-the-line machines were used to tack weld simple parts together. These machines had all the best features, but they never got used.

Another consideration is the welding processes that you will be using. Many shops have welding machines for processes that are either rarely used or not used at all. I worked at a welding shop that had several machines collecting dust because they were SMAW or GTAW machines, and that shop never used those processes. These machines were very expensive and bought brand new but no doubt suffered internal damage from the metal dust that was collecting on the circuit boards.

Also, consider where these machines are used. If you have a mobile welding business, you’ll want welder generators or welding machines that use common voltages such as 110 or 220 volts.

Red-D-Arc has a selection of used welder generators for sale.

In a shop environment, you want to think about what your staff will be working on. If you build large fabrications, the welders that you buy must be able to move around the structure, whereas if your products are small and built on a fab table, you can get used welders which are fixed in place.

You can even get small suitcase-sized welders like the Lincoln LN25 PRO Wirefeeder Suitcase at Red-D-Arc

Advantages of Buying Used Welders

Buying a used welder is always cheaper than buying the same welder new and this is the main advantage of used welding machines. Since these machines are several years old, their cost has depreciated over time. As long as a machine is well maintained and cared for, you can get a top of the line welder at a fraction of the cost of a new one.

I have used welding machines that were older than I am and they worked flawlessly because they were maintained and cared for.

Do you really need all of that?

Modern welding machines have a lot of advanced features, but most of these features were introduced several years ago so there will be many machines on the used market that have the premium features you want. Even though Red-D-Arc stocks many new machines with cutting edge welding technology, most shops can get away with buying used welding equipment that is several years old but has been expertly maintained.

While many shops go to the local auction to buy used welders, there is a significant advantage to buy through a company like Red-D-Arc. They have access to a large inventory of welding machines and have the staff to maintain, inspect, and certify that the welder you buy is in top condition.

Even large expensive machines like the Miller AMP Digtial Subarc which is used for SAW, can be found at Red-D-Arc at a significant capital savings.

Considerations When Buying Used Welders

Used welders can be a great option when you are setting up a brand new shop and trying to cut costs or make your hard-earned dollars go further, but they have some pitfalls you must look out for.

Buying from auctions

Many welders have encountered welding machines in their careers that seemed great on the outside, but once they started welding, problems surfaced. Inconsistent arcs, erratic wire feed, power drops or surges, and inadequate gas flow can all lead to extreme frustration.

One of the main pitfalls of buying used welding equipment from auctions is that while it may look great in the pictures, it may not function as hoped. The equipment might appear to be in excellent condition visually, but its performance can be significantly different once put to use.

This discrepancy between appearance and functionality can result in costly setbacks and delays in projects. It’s crucial for welders and fabricators to be aware of this risk when considering purchasing used equipment, especially from auctions where thorough testing before purchase may not be possible.

You also never truly know how well-maintained a machine is. Even though it may work perfectly when you buy it, there may be issues lurking just under the surface that can lead to costly repairs.

The only way to know for sure that a used welder is still good is to lay down some beads.

Parts nightmare

Potential parts availability issues is something we wouldn’t want to overlook prior to spending thousands on used equipment. This is particularly problematic with cheaper Chinese brands, which often use proprietary components that can be difficult to source. Wire reels, coolant pumps, torches, switches, displays, and so many other parts for these machines may become a nightmare if replacements are needed down the line.

In contrast, reputable sellers often provide comprehensive repair services and can supply parts as needed. This accessibility to replacement components and expert maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your equipment and minimize downtime.

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Opting for well-known brands from established retailers not only ensures better performance and reliability but also guarantees easier access to parts and servicing. While this approach may require a higher initial investment, it offers long-term benefits in terms of equipment longevity, consistent performance, and reduced frustration from parts-related issues.

Looks can be deceiving

When purchasing used welding equipment, it’s important to consider more than just appearances. While a machine may look pristine in photos or at first glance, its true performance can only be determined through many instances of actual use. This is particularly true for equipment bought from auctions or sites like Craigslist, where testing is often not possible or very brief.

To mitigate these risks, buyers should consider purchasing from reputable sellers who thoroughly test and refurbish their equipment. These sellers often provide warranties and stand behind their products, offering buyers peace of mind. By choosing a trusted retailer, welders and fabricators can significantly reduce the chances of encountering unexpected issues that could lead to project delays and additional costs.

Ultimately, the only way to ensure you’re getting a quality machine is to rely on established retailers who have a track record of supplying reliable, well-maintained welding equipment. This approach may cost more upfront but can save considerable time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Final Thoughts

Over the years, many welders have opted to purchase used equipment, often with mixed results. Some sources have been proven to be particularly unpredictable, with some machines performing well while others fall short of expectations. In contrast, welders purchased through reputable retailers like Red-D-Arc have consistently demonstrated superior quality and reliability.

Miller Electric believes you shouldn't have to pay for welders that drain profits from your bottom line. That's why the Miller Electric Gold Star®, Deltaweld® and Dimension™ series welders feature an improved transformer that uses electricity 10 to nearly 20 more efficiently than most competitive products.

Miller even had an independent laboratory confirm that its traditional three-phase welders convert line power to welding output power with an average efficiency of approximately 80%. This could save you big money. And for even greater energy savings, a growing number of welding-intensive operations choose Miller inverters, which offer an average energy efficiency of approximately 85%.

Energy Use and ROI

To understand how energy efficiency impacts a purchasing decision, compare the Dimension 652 (a transformer-based, 650 amp, DC constant current/constant voltage welder) to the leading competitor's 650 amp product. Let's use an application calling for MIG welding at 400 amps and 34 volts, which is typical for 1/2" steel plate.

Because the Dimension is 82.7% electrically efficient at these parameters, it uses 16.97 KW of input power. The competitor's power source, which is only 63.46% electrically efficient, requires 21.43 KW of input power - meaning you pay the utility company for 4.46 KW of wasted line power.

Miller's energy efficiency advantage can yield a quick return on investment, helping you justify the cost of upgrading. To operate the Dimension in an eight hour shift with 75% arc on time and 25% idle time, you need to pay $8.27 for electricity*. If your facility runs at full capacity (52 weeks, 5 days per week, 3 shifts per day) the Dimension costs $6,450 annually to power. Conversely, an inefficient power source costs $10.48 to run per shift, or $8,174 annually.

Using a Miller welder can save you $1,724 annually per machine. Even if you have a less aggressive manufacturing schedule - say 25% arc on time and 75% idle time - the Dimension still saves you $710 annually. Miller welders can pay for themselves in two to five years, then they keep saving you money over their lifetime (perhaps as much as $10,000 or $20,000).

* Assumes electricity costs are $0.08 per KW-HR.

Idle Power

Energy efficiency is important even if a welder is idle for 75 percent of the time, because the machine draws power whether it is welding or not. Miller improved the "idle efficiency" of all its higher amperage welders by incorporating a unique Fan-on-Demand™ cooling system that only runs when needed, not continuously. In dirty or dusty environments, this feature also reduces the amount of airborne contaminants pulled through the machine, keeping internal components cleaner and reducing the need for maintenance.

Inverter Products

If you're upgrading from a old transformer to a new Miller Electric inverter, you can expect to save even more money. Our line of inverter-based welders offer an average power efficiency of 85%, as well as unmatched reliability and unbeatable benefits. Miller inverters control output power much more precisely than traditional welders, so you can react quickly to changes in the weld puddle. Inverters provide enhanced weld bead wetting control (e.g., a "soft" arc for better wet out and minimal spatter, or a "stiff" arc for better penetration). This lets you obtain the best weld bead characteristics for the application. Compared to conventional welders, inverters better reduce ripples and spikes in the welding output, creating an ultra-smooth, stable arc - even at low amperages. You also get minimal spatter and good arc initiations.

Invision Series

When paired with a Miller wire feeder, the Invision series of DC, constant voltage inverters produces the highest quality MIG, pulsed MIG and flux cored welds in the industry. The Invision 456P provides up to 600 amps of welding output (450 amps at 100% duty cycle), and the Invision 304P provides up to 400 amps of output (300 amps at 100% duty cycle).

Weighing just 118 lb. and 76 lb., respectively, the Invision's light-weight portability saves time when moving from one job to the next, and it provides flexibility when deciding where to set up a welding station. The Invision products are easy to use, even for beginners, as its control panel only has three things to adjust: an On/Off switch, a knob for adjusting voltage and an inductance knob for varying arc characteristics.

XMT Series

The XMT® 456 and XMT 304 CC/CV inverters are portable DC power sources designed for superior welding performance in industrial Stick, MIG, TIG, pulsed MIG and TIG, and flux cored applications. You can use either power source for Air Carbon Arc gouging and the Phoenix also performs Sub Arc welding. Any company with multiple-process welding requirements can benefit from these portable, powerful welders.

The XMT 456 weighs 118 lb. and has a 5 to 600 amp output range (100% duty cycle at 450 amps). The XMT 304 weighs 76 lb. and has a 5 to 400 amp output range (60% duty cycle at 300 amps). For maximum versatility, the XMT 304 operates off either single- or three-phase power, and its Auto-Link® feature automatically adjusts to accept 230 or 460 VAC, 50 or 60 Hz line power.

Miller Three-Phase Products

The Dimension, Gold Star and Deltaweld series are all rugged, reliable machines used by professional welders for superior quality welds. Available in 300, 450, and 650 amp models, they have the endurance to handle industrial applications. The Dimension and Deltaweld series are rated at 100% duty cycle, and the Gold Star series is rated at 60%.

Dimension Series

The Dimension DC constant current/constant voltage power sources provide uncompromising arc quality in all modes: MIG, flux cored, Stick and TIG welding. Operators in the construction, manufacturing, fabricating, pipe welding, and shipbuilding industries - those who need one machine for a variety of applications - appreciate the capabilities of this true multiprocess power source.

Gold Star Series

The Gold Star constant current DC power sources perform code-quality Stick and TIG welding, as well as air carbon arc (ACA) gouging. Use the Gold Star to make an x-ray quality TIG root pass, then switch to the Stick process for the fill and cover welds. With its high-output capabilities (850 amp maximum), the Gold Star 652 makes a great gouging machine.

Deltaweld Series

Miller designed the Deltaweld constant voltage power source to perform MIG and flux cored welding in heavy industrial, automated and robotic applications. Used for manual welding in high duty cycle/high production facilities, the Deltaweld has likely put down more miles of weld bead than any other industrial MIG welder.

Pulsed MIG, for Maximum Energy Savings

Anyone currently using short circuit transfer to weld 14 gauge to 3/8 in. metal may benefit by changing to the pulsed MIG process. Pulsed MIG welding uses substantially less energy than conventional MIG because the power source operates at a low background current for a portion of the arc-on time. As a result of going to pulsed MIG, companies like Ag-Chem Equipment Co., Inc. of Jackson, Minn., expect to spend only $24,000 per year to power their 33 Miller inverters - a 290% cost savings over straight MIG.

All Miller three-phase products and inverters are covered by Miller's True Blue® 3-year factory warranty. For a free brochure on any product, call 1-800-4-A-MILLER (1-800-426-) or write to Miller Electric Mfg. Co., P.O. Box 629, Conyers, GA -. To visit Miller's website, point your browser to www.millerwelds.com.

Know Your Energy Costs

When considering a new welder purchase, ask your welding distributor for information on power efficiency across a range of welding outputs, as well as power used while idling. To learn more about the efficiency of Miller three-phase and inverter products, you can visit Miller's website at www.millerwelds.com.

To calculate energy costs, contact your local utility to find how much you pay for energy. You might also ask the utility if they have rebate programs which encourage companies to replace aging/lower technology equipment with energy efficient machines. Further, ask if the utility charges a penalty for electricity use at peak hours.

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