Function

• Welding machines take the electrical current from a high-voltage power source and convert it into a usable arc of energy to fuse two materials together.
  
  

Types

• Welding machines are either constant current (CC) or constant voltage (CV). Constant current welding machines maintain a set current by changing up the output voltage. Constant voltage machines keep the voltage steady by adjusting the output current.
  
  

Transformer

• Some welding machines use a transformer to convert the high voltage current from the wall outlet into a lower voltage current for output. The output current can then be adjusted within a certain range.
  
  

Alternator or Generator

• Other types of welding machines use a motor or combustion engine to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. An alternator or generator is then used to convert this mechanical energy into a low-current electrical output.
  
  

Inverter

• Inverter welding machines produce the high voltages needed for high-intensity arc welding. The machine stores the high voltage current from the wall outlet in a capacitor. A microprocessor then switches the stored energy into a transformed where it is converted into the desired output current.