AMPERAGE

[ianmontes]

Dear Gents,

Since I am new in welding, could you please teach me on how to measure amperage of welding machine
and is there any acceptance criteria in checking on it.

Thanks

 

[weldstan]

With an ammeter. There are tong type ammeters that are capable of measuring the current at the torch/stinger during welding. Amps will fluctuate when using Constant Voltage power supplies and will be essentially constant using Constant Current power supplies.

 

[gtaw]

One can measure the amperage any place along the welding leads using a tong type ammeter. Make sure the ammeter can read the type of current being measured, i.e., direct current or alternating current.

If the amperage expected is less than half the range of the ammeter, one can pass the same lead through the tongs twice. That will double the reading to provide a more accurate reading. Ideally, the amperage should be about half the amperage range of the ammeter.

Best regards - Al