Plasma transferred arc welding is a high-energy, inert-gas technique that deposits a high-quality coating on mechanical parts. PTA welding is extremely strong and durable, increasing the life of the welded parts. This welding process is ideal for parts that see heavy wear.

PTA welding can use a number of different welding alloys, all of which are useful in different situations. For example, cobalt-based alloys are a good choice when you need wear and corrosion resistance. Copper-based alloys are good for rebuilding worn machinery parts. When purchasing your PTA welding supplies, make sure you're getting the right metal alloys for the job at hand.

1. Find PTA welders that meet your business's unique welding needs.

2. Look into robotic PTA welders if your business deals with high-volume PTA welding.

3. Consider hiring a plasma transferred arc welding service, which could be more cost effective for your company.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Explore companies that sell PTA welding equipment and supplies

To find the right PTA welder distributor for your business, get in touch with the companies that offer PTA welding equipment and make sure they have the gear and supplies your business needs. Different supplies are useful in different welding situations, so you'll need to make sure the supplies you're getting match your welding specifications.

I recommend: Weldstar sells equipment, accessories and power sources for plasma arc welding and cutting. At ThomasNet, you can find an extensive directory of PTA welder distributors.

Consider robotic plasma transferred arc welding

If your business needs to do high-volume precision PTA welding, a robotic welding machine might be the right choice for you. Shop around to see what capabilities the different robotic welders have, and make sure the investment will pay off for your business before you buy.

I recommend: RobotWorx sells arc welding robots from Motoman, Fanuc, Panasonic and Nachi. Integrated Robotics offers welding robots, as well as other industrial robotics machinery.

Find a plasma transferred arc welding service

Not every business needs to have its own PTA welding machinery. If you need only occasional welding, or if you don't have the space to store PTA welding equipment and supplies, consider hiring a PTA welding service. Outsourcing your welding projects can save money and space, and you can be sure an experienced welding professional will be completing your welding for you.

I recommend: Accidental Anomalies is a robotic plasma transferred arc welding service that promises precision high-volume welds. Fusion Clad Precision Technology offers PTA welding in addition to laser welding, electrode welding and other services.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're purchasing a plasma arc welder for your business, consider buying used equipment. It can save a bundle for you, and you can still find high-quality used equipment that meets your PTA welding requirements.