Alternatives to ESAB

[BrundLFly]

Good morning all

I am looking for a manufacturer of welding consumables that would be a good alternative to the ESAB products in the UK. The reason for this is that ESAB have just announced a price increase of 9% and the closure of the distribution centres that we use meaning we would have to get them shipped from overseas. The bosses are not best pleased with the cost implications of this lol.
Can anyone please recommend a company that would have a similar range of good quality, class approved products. Have to have the class approvals as we work in the marine and oil sectors.

any advice would be greatly appreciated.

cheers

brund

 

[DVWE]

Bohler Thyssen. I believe they're based in Germany. Hands down the best consumables I've ever used, although they come with a bit of a price tag.

I know that Lincoln also meets the class approvals you are looking for, they make a reasonably good product at a decent price.

 

[BrundLFly]

thanks DVWE, much appreciated

 

[stanweld]

Metrode.

 

[Mr168]

Metrode/Lincoln/Smitweld. Bohler's alloy products aren't bad, but their lower end consumables, e.g. 7018, are manufactured in China. They run like it, too.

 

[BrundLFly]

Thx Mr168

we've had trouble with materials, consumables and tools from china in the past so many thanks for your input

 

[kingnero]

Safer/Air liquide - France.
Castolin/Eutectrode
Elga

However I'm not sure if they comply to the standards you quoted.

 

[bruv]

Metrode would always be my first choice. As far as I know, it's all made in the UK.

http://www.metrode.com