Welding Repairs Getting It Right the First Time
Fixing defects demands careful planning and expert execution
Welding repairs often involve higher
stakes than original fabrication. The
pressure is greater, the conditions
are more challenging, and the consequences of
failure are more severe. Once a critical weld is
compromised, the risks increase significantly:
What was critical becomes supercritical, the
margin for error narrows, and the cost of
failure multiplies. A failure in a newly fabricated
pressure vessel might be inconvenient, but a
failure in a repaired pressure vessel already in
service could be catastrophic…
Read the full article here.
Want to optimize your tools?
Check out the BTB MIG Gun Configurator to configure a gun that works with your operation, so you can weld it right the first time.
About the Author
Mostafa Hanafy
Mostafa Hanafy (mostafa.hanafy@bernardtregaskiss.com) is director of strategic marketing and product management at Bernard and Tregaskiss.
Weld Smarter, Not Harder With Welding Automation Technologies
Weld Smarter, Not Harder With Welding Automation Technologies
Technology enhancements optimize and advance automated welding performance.
The skilled labor shortage is not a new concern within the welding industry. While efforts are being made to attract new talent, those who join still need ample time to learn and truly refine their skills. Because of shortages and the lengthy on-ramps for newer welders, some operations may still be behind in meeting the demands of their business and struggling with weld quality and consistency issues…
Read the full article here.
Want to optimize your operations?
Check out the Atlas Data Sheet to see how it can improve uptime and minimize training efforts.
To learn more about upgrading your automation efforts visit the Atlas Robotic ThruArm MIG Torch Product Page here.
About the Author
Brad Whipple
Brad Whipple is a senior engineer for Tregaskiss. Email brad.whipple@bernardtregaskiss.com
How The Right Equipment Can Help With Ergonomics for Welders.
How The Right Equipment Can Help With Ergonomics for Welders.
A welder that can keep comfortable doing the job is likely to avoid unnecessary strains
It’s no surprise that as welders reach their 30s, they are not as flexible and limber as they were when they were just starting out in the metal fabricating business. What is surprising is that most companies don’t take that into account, putting these valuable craftsmen at risk of possibly developing sprains and strains that make them unable to work.
These types of ergonomic injuries—pain and damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments caused by awkward positions and repetitive activities—are real factors in the manufacturing industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics….
Read the full article here.
At Bernard Welding, we place a strong emphasis on welder comfort and ergonomics in every product we release.
By configuring your own MIG gun, you can customize it to fit the way you work—rather than adjusting the way you work to fit the tool. Use our configurator to design a Bernard MIG gun that helps your welders stay comfortable, weld longer, and work more productively; so they can keep delivering quality parts for years to come.
About the Author
Dan Davis
Editor-in-Chief
2135 Point Blvd.
Elgin, IL 60123
815-227-8281
Dan Davis is editor-in-chief of The Fabricator, the industry’s most widely circulated metal fabricating magazine, and its sister publications, The Tube & Pipe Journal and The Welder. He has been with the publications since April 2002.
A Big Win for Clean Air E – Bernard Takes Home a Pro Tool Innovation Award!
A Big Win for Clean Air E – Bernard Takes Home a Pro Tool Innovation Award!
Bernard® Clean Air™ E fume extraction gun has been recognized with a 2025 Pro Tool Innovation Award in the Automotive and Metalworking category, under Welding Guns.
The Pro Tool Innovation Awards are judged by a panel of contractors, trade professionals, and tool experts who evaluate products based on innovation, performance, and value. These awards highlight tools that solve real jobsite challenges and help professionals work more efficiently. Winning products are selected for their ability to improve workflow, boost productivity, and offer new opportunities in the field.
The Automotive and Metalworking category includes tools built for those working with metal or vehicles. It covers everything from welding guns and grinders to inspection tools and accessories. Clean Air E stood out for its ability to deliver cleaner air, better ergonomics, and long-term durability. These key benefits are all critical for demanding industrial environments.
What Makes Clean Air E Different
- Fume Control at the Source – Efficient Extraction
Clean Air E captures up to 95% of weld fumes directly at the arc. This helps protect welders, improves visibility, and supports compliance with health and safety standards. - Comfort That Lasts – Enhanced Ergonomics.
Designed with welders in mind, it features a balanced build, optimized handle, and ball swivel for better control and reduced fatigue during long shifts. - Built to Handle Tough Jobs – Engineered for Endurance.
Its rugged design and long-life consumables reduce downtime and maintenance, keeping operations running smoothly. - Improved Visibility for Better Welds
The gun is engineered to minimize arc obstructions, giving welders a clearer view of the weld puddle for more precise and consistent results.
This award is a reflection of the hard work and collaboration across our team. From product development to launch, everyone played a role in making Clean Air E a success.
You can view the full list of winners at protoolinnovationawards.com.
Interested in the Bernard Clean Air E?
Tregaskiss Redefines Performance With New Atlas™ Robotic ThruArm Air-Cooled MIG Torch
Tregaskiss Redefines Performance With New Atlas™ Robotic ThruArm Air-Cooled MIG Torch
Engineered for precision, built for uptime and designed to hit your mark
BEECHER, Ill./WINDSOR, Ontario (September 4, 2025) — Tregaskiss, a leading innovator in robotic welding solutions, introduces the Atlas™ robotic MIG welding torch — a next-generation, air-cooled ThruArm GMAW torch engineered to deliver unmatched efficiency, repeatable precision and simplified maintenance. Constructed to endure the demands of industrial environments, Atlas helps operators reduce downtime by up to 87% while ensuring consistent, high-quality welds.
Atlas raises the bar in robotic MIG welding and delivers a breakthrough in uptime and weld quality. Its robust construction and streamlined cable routing minimize unplanned downtime and maintenance, while producing high-quality welds across demanding applications.
“We took over three decades of experience and know-how in robotic MIG welding and unleashed our engineers to develop this revolutionary and innovative robotic A/C thru-arm torch,” said Andrew Marchand, director of engineering. “As a result, Atlas sets a new standard in the industry for installation time, TCP repeatability and ease of maintenance.”
Ideal for operations focused on automotive, heavy equipment and general manufacturing, Atlas sets a new standard with its toughness and accuracy. Key features and benefits include:
- Consistent tool center point (TCP): The keyed stainless steel neck construction provides superior rigidity, long-lasting positional features and increased neck-to-neck repeatability. Additionally, the isolated, separate mechanical and electrical functions, combined with a direct neck-to-cable connection, reduce performance issues.
- Maximized uptime: Tool-less cable change, predictive maintenance indicators and quick-change components reduce unplanned downtime and total service time.
- Designed for durability: Built tough to withstand harsh industrial environments, Atlas protects key components from debris and spatter and extends torch life.
- Streamlined maintenance: Intuitive features like captured fasteners, inspection windows and install confirmation indicators make servicing fast and foolproof.
- Engineered efficiency: The modular, optimized design drives better performance and simplifies training and maintenance.
The Atlas torch will officially debut at FABTECH 2025 this September, where attendees can experience its performance firsthand. Visit booth B20027 from September 8-11 to learn more about Atlas and how it can transform your robotic welding operations.
If you can’t attend the show, visit https://www.bernardtregaskiss.com/product/atlas/ for additional details.
About Tregaskiss
Tregaskiss is a trusted manufacturer of high-quality robotic MIG welding torches and consumables, focused on delivering performance, reliability, and efficiency in automated welding applications. Based in Windsor, Ontario, Tregaskiss designs innovative solutions that offer durability for industrial applications, support system uptime, and reduce maintenance needs in demanding environments. Tregaskiss is a proud brand of Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE: ITW). For more information, visit BernardTregaskiss.com, call 1-855-MIGWELD (1-855-644-9353), or email CS@itwmig.com.
Contact:
Lauren Smith, Hiebing for Bernard/Tregaskiss
phone: +1 6082684408
Contact: Lauren Smith, Hiebing for Bernard/Tregaskiss phone: +1 6082684408 lsmith@hiebing.com
The Hidden Cost of Cutting Corners in Robotic Welding Equipment
The Hidden Cost of Cutting Corners in Robotic Welding Equipment
The global robotic welding market is heating up. This growth is being fueled by a critical mix of factors: a shortage of skilled welders, the rising demand for manufacturing efficiency, and an industry-wide push toward automation across sectors like automotive, aerospace, construction equipment, and general fabrication.
At the center of many robotic welding cells is MIG welding, prized for its speed, adaptability, and suitability for automation. But what often gets overlooked in the race toward automation is this: your system is only as good as the equipment you put into it.
And cutting corners on that equipment? It comes with a price.
Downtime Is Expensive and Often Avoidable
Cheap or underperforming components can quickly turn a high-output robotic welding cell into a bottleneck. From unreliable torches to inconsistent consumables, even minor issues can lead to misaligned welds, excessive spatter, or system stoppages that eat into productivity. Worse yet, these problems are rarely one-offs. Poor-quality components often result in frequent rework, more operator intervention, and additional maintenance all of which erode your ROI over time.
Repeatability and Reliability Shouldn’t Be Optional
Robotic systems rely on repeatable precision. Every weld pass, programmed path and every contact point needs to perform the same, shift after shift. That’s nearly impossible to achieve if your equipment isn’t built to hold tolerances or endure tough environments.
Newer torch designs, like the Tregaskiss® ATLAS™ Robotic ThruArm MIG Torch, have been engineered to deliver consistent, repeatable performance in even the most demanding applications. While not the only solution, products like this are helping manufacturers cut down on downtime and reduce the need for frequent reprogramming or adjustments.
Skilled Labor Is Scarce – Simplicity Matters
With fewer experienced welders and technicians entering the workforce, maintenance routines need to be simplified and, ideally, predictable. Equipment that requires constant tweaking or is difficult to service adds stress and inefficiency to an already stretched workforce.
Modern robotic welding gear is starting to address this. Atlas™ addresses the pain behind predictive maintenance and visual inspection features to take the guesswork out of service intervals. Compatibility with the Tregaskiss Torch Maintenance Module, for instance, allows teams time for maintenance before failure occurs – not after. That kind of visibility leads to fewer unexpected stoppages, fewer errors during maintenance, and more time spent where it counts: welding parts.
The Real Cost Isn’t Just Dollars – It’s Lost Opportunity
In a fast-moving manufacturing environment, the true cost of cutting corners isn’t just found on a balance sheet. It’s in jobs that don’t ship on time. The customers who look elsewhere. The employees are frustrated by constant issues.
Choosing the right robotic welding equipment from the start, even if it comes with a slightly higher price tag is an investment in long-term stability, performance, and productivity. It’s about building a system that works with your team, not against it.
Quality Pays for Itself
As robotic welding continues to expand across industries, the companies that will lead the charge are those who recognize that good equipment isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Whether it’s a rugged torch that stands up to tough environments, or consumables designed for long life and precision, choosing quality upfront prevents pain later.
And in today’s climate of labor shortages, rising expectations, and constant pressure to do more with less, that choice might just be the difference between staying competitive, or falling behind.
Learn more about how Atlas can help save your operation time and money.
GET STARTED.
Improved Flux-Cored Welding for Heavy-Duty Field Use
Improved Flux-Cored Welding for Heavy-Duty Field Use
Understanding operator challenges is what drives innovation in the welding industry. For some, that challenge is outdoor welding, where using shielding gas is not optimal. In these extreme conditions, traditional MIG welding won’t necessarily work. Turning to a different process, such as self-shielded flux-cored welding (FCAW-S), allows for more effective welding in the field. When welding in harsh environments, operators require durable, rugged equipment that can withstand the elements and the nature of the work.
Operators utilizing self-shielded flux-cored welding demand a high level of flexibility and reliability in their equipment, which is why Bernard optimized the IronPro™ self-shielded FCAW gun to be extremely durable when welding in heavy-duty field operations.
Features that enhance flux-cored welding for heavy-duty applications
Operators need a gun that stays cooler in the hand and is lightweight, portable and reliable — handling the rigor of the toughest worksites while improving operator comfort. To improve usability and the overall user experience, IronPro introduces several enhancements to meet those needs and help overcome technical and operational challenges when out in the field.
Specifically, the IronPro 350 has a 350-amp rated output with a 60% duty cycle, making it ideal for operators working in construction, shipbuilding and heavy manufacturing. The design was further updated to include:
- Interchangeable neck options: The IronPro 350 features two rotatable neck options — one that’s 7 inches with a 60-degree bend radius and one that’s 12 inches with a 45-degree bend radius. These allow operators to ergonomically access even the most challenging, out-of-position welds. The neck can be rotated for a trigger-on-top approach, allowing for even more dexterity and customization at the joint.
- Sealed trigger: The trigger is designed to keep the area slag- and spatter-free, reducing maintenance downtime. Being non-metallic, it absorbs less heat, and it’s made with a sealed switch that helps keep out dust and dirt, leading to a longer lifespan.
- Lighter cable: The weight and bulk of higher amperage gun cables can lead to fatigue over extended periods of time. The cable for the 350 is lighter, making it more mobile and user-friendly for a welder on a day-to-day basis.
Incorporating all the updated design features mentioned above, IronPro 450 is also available for higher amperage applications, supporting up to 3/32″ wire size. IronPro 450 has a 450-amp-rated output with a 60% duty cycle.
Additional ways to improve field performance
To keep operators welding in tight positions longer, using AccuLock™ S consumables will increase contact tip life, resulting in fewer tip changes and increased overall performance with fewer points of failure. To further improve field performance, the cable liner incorporates Bernard® E-Z Feed™ technology, ensuring a reliable and smooth feed, minimizing chatter and poor arc characteristics. The superior feeding performance, paired with high-quality consumables, leads to more consistent welds, minimizing rework.
The tip insulator was redesigned to be more durable, withstanding more aggressive weld parameters to keep the electricity from short-circuiting between the tip and neck. Additionally, the insulator transitioned from being a slip-on to a thread-on, allowing it to stay in place better. These design improvements help minimize bridging from spatter and improve operator safety by ensuring the contact tip remains isolated to allow current to flow correctly through the wire to the weld puddle. Operators can choose between composite tip insulators, for increased joint access, or armored tip insulators, which are well-suited for higher amperage applications. These options allow operators to better customize their IronPro to suit the needs of their applications.
When welding heavy-duty applications in the field, operators need power, durability and consistency. The IronPro 350 offers improvements that exceed those demands. Welders can elevate their welding performance — and experience the productivity and quality benefits self-shielded flux-cored welding offers.
4 Reasons Genuine Consumables Lead to Better MIG Welds
4 Reasons Genuine Consumables Lead to Better MIG Welds
Welders must be able to rely on every aspect of their equipment, and consumables are an integral component of a high-quality weld. When you notice an uptick in downtime and consumables consumption, it’s time to take a deeper look at what the culprit could be. An easy place to start is by looking at the quality of the consumables you’re using. Lower-quality consumables can lead to major expenses in the long run — as seen in lost production, weld rework and the cost of constant replacements.
Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) consumables are the right choice for improved operations and consistent, high-quality welds. Below are four reasons you should consider investing in genuine consumables over lower-quality options.
- Consumable quality affects your performance
Even the best MIG guns or the most highly trained operators cannot offset the impact of poorly made consumables on performance. OEM consumables are manufactured using high-quality materials, which helps deliver the arc stability needed to create smooth, even welds with minimal defects. In addition to helping improve weld integrity and facilitating more durable weld joints, genuine consumables also help prevent excessive spatter and minimize post-weld cleanup.
Because OEM consumables are manufactured for reliability, they have consistent diameters and surface conditions that ensure smoother feeding through the gun. By contrast, non-genuine consumables are often made from low-quality materials and may not consistently meet key manufacturing specifications.
2. OEM consumables are expertly designed to be reliable
Genuine consumables are backed by research, technology and expertise, having been produced to ensure the material composition and mechanical properties are consistent and reliable. Keeping those details at the forefront makes for stable arcs, high-quality welds, fewer points of failure and simplified maintenance. Their ease of use can even help to reduce welder training times and shorten your troubleshooting list if problems do arise.
Copycat manufacturers are also less likely to submit their consumables to the rigorous testing and quality assurance processes that OEMs follow.
AccuLock ™ consumables have been designed to flawlessly integrate into Bernard® semi-automatic and Tregaskiss® fixed automatic and robotic MIG welding guns and to address welders’ most common pain points.
For semi-automatic MIG welding applications, the AccuLock™ S consumables system paired with front load E-Z Feed™ liners reduces liner trim length errors and erratic wire feeding while simultaneously increasing contact tip life. The front load liners are locked and concentrically aligned to both the contact tip and power pin. This eliminates misalignment and provides a flawless wire feed path, ensuring uninterrupted delivery of the wire to the weld puddle. As a result, operators have fewer burnbacks, bird nests and erratic arcs.
The AccuLock R consumables system is available for robotic or fixed automatic MIG welding applications. With these consumables, operators have the opportunity to realize significant improvements, like increasing contact tip life span and decreasing issues with contact tip cross-threading.
For operations constantly managing complex or costly consumables inventories, AccuLock S and AccuLock R consumables systems share a common contact tip — making for simplified part inventory across mixed fleets of semi-automatic and automated welding applications. Operations who are looking to get more life out of their consumables but aren’t using Bernard or Tregaskiss guns can purchase the conversion series consumables to still experience the benefits of a high-quality system.
3. Using low-quality products limits your manufacturer’s ability to help
A good OEM is invested not only in the performance of its products but also in the overall user experience, which extends to customer service. Reputable OEMs usually have expert technical support teams that help with troubleshooting and provide solutions if something goes wrong. They can also share product tips and offer advice, like how to make your MIG gun consumables last longer.
However, if you’re using nongenuine consumables and parts, technical support teams are unable to offer such assistance. Often, if an issue arises involving lower-quality parts, it will be essential to order genuine parts and wait for them to arrive to see if the issue still occurs before the OEM team can offer support. Using genuine parts from the get-go means you can get expert advice right away — or avoid issues altogether.
4. OEM products can have a longer life
Because OEMs are making greater investments in materials, design and testing, that means OEM consumables usually cost more than low-quality consumables. But, as the saying goes, you get what you pay for. Consumables are probably not your biggest cost — labor is. So any money you save by using cheaply made consumables could be offset by the extra labor required to frequently change tips, troubleshoot equipment failure or rework a faulty weld. Those looking for superior performance and longevity find that OEM options can equate to more arc-on time — and more products out the door.
AccuLock contact tips are designed so that 60% of the tip is buried within the diffuser for less exposure to the heat of the arc and more cooling from shielding gas. This gives the tip a life that can be two to three times longer than other tips.
All told, because genuine consumables are designed specifically for your MIG welding gun, they can last longer, be more reliable and deliver higher-quality welds — ultimately enhancing the operator experience and your welding operation’s bottom line.
Mastering MIG welding with adjustments, equipment and techniques
Mastering MIG welding with adjustments, equipment and techniques
Discover essential adjustments, equipment tips, and expert techniques to accelerate your MIG welding game by reading our article in the October issue of The Welder. You’ll learn how to balance voltage and wire feed speed for flawless welds, select the right welder and shielding gas, and master gun angle and travel speed. Plus, we’ll guide you through troubleshooting common challenges to ensure consistent, high-quality results. Don’t miss out on transforming your welding skills—dive into the full article now!
Introducing The Bernard® Clean Air E™
Introducing The Bernard® Clean Air E™
Welding professionals face daily challenges in keeping their work environment clean and safe. With strict weld fume regulations, effective fume control is more important than ever. The Bernard® Clean Air E™ fume extraction MIG gun helps by capturing welding fumes directly at the source without sacrificing performance.
Why Source Capture Matters
Capturing weld fume as close to the point of generation as possible, also known as source capture, is one of the most effective ways to reduce exposure. Unlike general ventilation or ambient air systems that dilute fumes, source capture methods like fume extraction guns immediately remove hazardous particles, helping improve air quality for operators and surrounding workers.
The Clean Air E™ captures up to 95% of fume at the source. The gun is built with adjustable extraction control through interchangeable shroud lengths and a slider allowing operators to fine-tune suction levels without affecting shielding gas coverage. This balance is critical for maintaining weld quality while maximizing fume capture.
Key Benefits of the Clean Air E™
Efficient Extraction
By removing up to 95% of fumes directly at the arc, the Clean Air E™ helps reduce exposure risks and contributes to a cleaner workspace.
Enhanced Ergonomics
With a lightweight handle design, the Clean Air E™ allows you to weld longer without fatigue. The ball swivel at the rear of the handle makes maneuvering easier, even in difficult positions.
Engineered for Endurance
This fume gun is built to withstand the toughest working environments. Made from durable, tested materials, it features a robust and straightforward design for easy maintenance.
Designed for Demanding Applications
Ideal for high-amperage and high-deposition rate applications, the Clean Air E™ is well-suited for industries such as: Shipbuilding, Heavy equipment manufacturing, General fabrication and manufacturing
Ergonomic and Easy to Use
Unlike bulky ventilation systems, fume extraction guns like the Clean Air E™ seamlessly integrate into a welder’s workflow. With a lightweight, ergonomic design and a user-friendly adjustment slider on the guns handle, it operates much like a standard MIG gun while providing the added benefit of fume extraction.
Customizable
We know every welder has their own preference when it comes to welding style. That’s why we designed two trigger options—a button and a lever, plus an extended lever for added comfort. We also made the shrouds interchangeable, offering three lengths to optimize either weld visibility or fume extraction, depending on your application.
A Smarter Step Toward Safer Welding
No single solution eliminates all welding fume exposure, but using a fume extraction gun alongside a compatible extraction unit like the Miller® Filtair®215 can significantly improve a workplace environment. The Bernard® Clean Air E™ provides a practical, effective way to prioritize welder safety and performance.
It starts at the source™
For Immediate Release BEECHER, Ill./WINDSOR, Ontario (March 20, 2025) — Bernard announced the release of the new Clean Air E™ fume extraction MIG gun, the newest high-efficiency fume extraction gun in the brand’s lineup. Crafted for efficient extraction, enhanced ergonomics and engineered endurance, this gun sets a new standard in MIG welding fume capture technology. With an ongoing priority to ensure safer, cleaner work environments for operators coupled with heightened fume standards being implemented across the country, Bernard saw an opportunity to evolve the standard fume extraction gun to maximize its efficiency and usability. Bernard took customer and welder feedback and designed a product that would be the most impactful for welders in a next-generation fume extraction gun. The team applied that feedback throughout the research and development process until it resulted in the Clean Air E™, which offers solutions to common operator pain points, including: · Efficient extraction: The Clean Air E™ achieves up to 95% fume capture right at the source, which improves air quality in the workspace and reduces OSHA-related risks. · Enhanced ergonomics: The ergonomic design reduces strain and fatigue on welders, which allows them to focus on precision and quality for extended use. · Engineered for endurance: The Clean Air E™ features durable components and long-life consumables, which reduces downtime and maintenance costs, delivering a lower cost of total ownership. “When it comes to welding, operators seek the trifecta in their gun: ergonomics, extraction performance and ease of maintenance,” said Jerome Parker, product manager, Bernard. “The Clean Air E™ was designed alongside actual users to ensure we arrived at a solution that redefined traditional fume capture guns for the modern welder, enhancing both their operator experience and their weld environment.” On the gun itself, the Clean Air E™ offers enhanced features for easier and more efficient use: · Improved weld access: Three nozzle shroud lengths allow operators to balance fume capture with weld access and improved visibility of the weldment. · Instant flow adjustment: The new flow control slide on the back of the handle enables welders to easily reduce airflow by up to 10 cfm to help overcome porosity issues. · Upgraded handle comfort: Two handle styles are available to suit different grip styles and hand sizes, with internals contoured to enhance airflow and fume capture. The lever trigger can also be mounted on top for additional comfort. · Increased flexibility: A durable, lightweight aluminum ball swivel at the end of the handle provides 15 degrees of extra flex in any direction for additional improved ergonomics. · Maximized airflow: A new Y-connector offers contoured internals that maximize airflow, with a vacuum outlet that is compatible with any fume extraction unit. For a premium fume extraction pairing, operators have the option to connect the Clean Air E™ to the Miller® FILTAIR® 215. Learn more about how the Clean Air E™ can deliver safety, performance and comfort for welders at https://www.startsatthesource.com/ About Bernard Bernard, a leading manufacturer of premium semi-automatic MIG welding guns and consumables, is dedicated to enhancing welding productivity and performance. Headquartered in Beecher, Illinois, Bernard is known for innovative solutions that prioritize operator comfort, ease of maintenance, and exceptional durability. Bernard is a proud brand of Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE: ITW). For more information, visit BernardTregaskiss.com, call 1-855-MIGWELD (1-855-644-9353), email CS@itwmig.com. Contact: Lauren Smith, Hiebing for Bernard/Tregaskiss phone: +1 6082684408 lsmith@hiebing.com The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and other safety regulatory bodies set the allowable exposure limits for weld fumes and other particulates, including hexavalent chromium, with the aim of protecting employees against potential health hazards in the workplace. Providing welding operators with proper ventilation during the welding process is an important step companies can take to help meet the standards — and to help provide a safe and comfortable work environment. Companies may opt to invest in centralized fume extraction systems, which are designed to protect the entire shop area. These systems involve the installation of new ductwork and fans to remove fumes and are highly effective, but they are also more expensive than other options. A viable alternative for some companies is a fume extraction gun used in conjunction with a fume extraction device or localized filtration system. Fume extraction guns are available in a variety of amperages (typically 300 to 600), cable styles and handle designs. As with any welding equipment, they have their best applications, advantages and limitations, as well as recommended techniques for achieving the best results. Fume extraction guns operate by capturing the fume generated by the welding process right at the source, over and around the weld pool. The weld fumes removed by these guns are composed of a combination of the filler metal and base material. Various manufacturers have proprietary means of constructing guns to conduct this action, but at a basic level they all operate similarly: by mass flow, or the movement of material. A vacuum chamber suctions the fumes through the handle of the gun, into the gun’s hose and through to a port on the filtration system (sometimes informally referred to as a vacuum box). Typically, fume extraction guns are larger than regular welding guns, and include the vacuum and hose that are necessary to extract the fumes. Some manufacturers offer fume extraction guns with a vacuum hose swivel on the rear of the handle to make them easier to maneuver. Also, design advancements have minimized the handle weight and size to make the guns as light as possible for operator comfort, while still offering consistent fume extraction benefits. The Bernard® Clean Air E™ fume extraction gun is designed to efficiently capture welding fumes at the source, helping to create a cleaner work environment. This gun is particularly well-suited for applications using solid welding wire and for operations in confined spaces, where fume extraction directly in the welding operator’s breathing zone is essential. Industries that frequently benefit from this technology include shipbuilding, heavy equipment manufacturing, and general fabrication, especially when working with mild or carbon steel. Additionally, for applications in petrochemical industries or those involving stainless steel welding, where higher levels of hexavalent chromium are present, the Clean Air E™ gun provides an effective solution for improving air quality. Designed for high-amperage and high-deposition rate applications, this gun performs best in flat and horizontal welding positions, where it can effectively capture rising fume particles. While fume extraction in out-of-position welding can be more challenging due to the natural rise of fumes, proper technique and positioning can help maximize effectiveness. The Clean Air E™ fume extraction gun operates similarly to a standard MIG gun, making it easy for welding operators to adapt to. To achieve the best results, consider these best practices: By integrating the Bernard® Clean Air™ E fume extraction gun into your welding operations, you can enhance fume control while maintaining welding quality and efficiency. Fume extraction guns operate by capturing the fume generated by the welding process right at the source, over and around the weld pool. As with any piece of welding equipment, fume extraction guns benefit from preventive maintenance. Flux-cored wire allows vacuum adjustment Because flux-cored wire produces a slag, it generates more weld fume. However, one benefit of using self-shielded flux-cored wire, for example, is it allows the ability to increase the vacuum level of the gun. Welding operators can close off all the vents and utilize the long shroud. This action maximizes the vacuum at the front end of the gun without concern for disturbing the shielding gas, since there is none generates with self-shielded flux-cored wire. When using gas-shielded flux-cored wire, a 0 to 15-degree angle will help maximize fume collection. Pause at the end At the end of the weld, welding operators can pause for 10 to 15 seconds, holding the fume extraction gun in place without depositing weld metal. This action allows the gun to capture residual fumes as the weld bead is cooling. Wire type determines stickout The contact tip to work distance can be longer — about 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch — when welding with flux-cored wire and a fume extraction gun. With solid wire, welding operators should try to keep the stickout to 1/2 inch or less to maximize fume capture. These lengths are comparable to the stickout lengths used with standard MIG guns. Experiment with the air control regulator Some guns, like the Clean Air E™, incorporate a slider or toggle mechanism conveniently located on the gun handle, while others integrate this function internally. This adjustability is essential for balancing fume extraction with shielding gas coverage. Too much suction can disrupt the protective gas flow, leading to weld defects like porosity, while too little may not effectively capture harmful fumes. By using the built-in adjustment feature, operators can increase or decrease suction as needed to maintain optimal fume control while ensuring proper weld protection. Finding the right balance may require some trial and error. To optimize performance, welding operators should test the air control setting on scrap material before welding on a final product. This ensures that fume extraction is maximized without negatively affecting weld quality. With the Clean Air E™ and other adjustable fume extraction guns, operators have greater control over their work environment—helping to improve air quality while maintaining welding efficiency. As with any piece of welding equipment, fume extraction guns benefit from preventive maintenance. Caring for them is similar to caring for a standard MIG gun. Also note that using flux-cored wire with these guns requires more frequent gun maintenance than solid wire because of the slag and fumes it generates. Regular maintenance is important to help prevent a clog or spatter buildup, which can limit the fume capture rate. Inspecting and maintaining the front end of the gun is key to optimizing fume extraction. Frequently inspect the nozzle and contact tip for signs of spatter buildup, which along with blocking the fume extraction can also obstruct shielding gas flow and cause weld defects. Spatter buildup also can cause consumables to fail prematurely. Replace the consumables if spatter buildup appears, or clean them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Also, inspect the vacuum hose regularly for damage such as cuts or kinks, which can lead to loss of suction. Replace a damaged vacuum hose as necessary. Regarding consumables, using the manufacturer’s recommended consumables package with a fume extraction gun helps optimize performance, as the guns are engineered to get the best results with specific consumables. When in doubt about maintenance or any other aspect of using a fume extraction gun, consider working with a trusted welding distributor, certified industrial hygienist and/or the gun manufacturer to address any questions or concerns. In combination with many other variables in the welding operation — wire selection, specific transfer methods and welding processes, welding operator technique, and base material selection — fume extraction guns can help companies maintain compliance with safety regulations and create a cleaner, more comfortable welding environment. Proper use and maintenance of the equipment is important to get optimal results.
New industry standards from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are protecting employees against potential health hazards in the workplace. These regulations, which dictate allowable exposure limits of welding fumes and other particulates (including hexavalent chromium), have led many companies to invest in fume extraction equipment. An increased desire to maintain optimal welding operator safety and to attract new skilled welding operators to the field is also a consideration in investing in this equipment — companies want to create the most comfortable and healthy work environment possible. The Clean Air E™ MIG fume extraction gun, as shown here, operates by capturing the fume generated by the welding process right at the source, over and around the weld pool. With interchangeable shroud options to help customize your extraction for your application. Some companies may opt for centralized fume extraction systems, which are designed to protect the entire shop area. These systems involve the installation of new ductwork and can be a costly investment for capturing fume particulate in the air. Fume extraction guns are available in a variety of amperages, cable styles and handle designs. As with any welding equipment, they have their advantages and limitations, best applications, maintenance requirements and more. In combination with many other variables in the welding operation; welding wire selection, specific transfer methods and welding processes, welding operator behavior and base material selection — fume extraction guns can help companies maintain compliance with safety regulations and create a cleaner, more comfortable welding environment. Fume extraction guns operate by capturing the fume generated by the welding process right at the source, over and around the weld pool. Various manufacturers have proprietary means of constructing guns to conduct this action, but at a basic level they all operate similarly: by mass flow, or the movement of material. This movement occurs by way of a vacuum chamber that suctions the fumes through the handle of the gun, into the gun’s hose through to a port on the filtration system (sometimes informally referred to as a vacuum box) like the Miller FILTAIR® 215 High-Vacuum Fume Extractor. The welding fumes that these guns remove are composed of a combination of the filler metal and base material. Some fume extraction guns feature adjustable extraction control regulators at the front of the gun handle, which allow welding operators to increase suction as needed (without affecting shielding gas coverage), while others provide this function internally. Regardless of the manner, the ability to balance between the downward flow of shielding gas and the upward flow of the suctioned air is critical. The fume extraction gun needs to provide the appropriate amount of shielding gas to protect the weld from defects such as porosity, without sacrificing the ability to suction fumes efficiently enough to protect the welding operator. The balance allows the weld pool time to react and solidify, and gives the fume particles time to decelerate so they are easier to extract. Typically, fume extraction guns are larger than regular welding guns and tend to be bulky due to the vacuum and hose necessary to extract the fumes. For that reason, some manufacturers create fume extraction guns with a vacuum hose swivel on the rear of the handle to make them easier to maneuver. Manufacturers have also, since fume extraction guns were first introduced (in the late 1960s and early 1970s), found ways to engineer internal components to minimize the handle weight in order to reduce operator fatigue. Fume extraction guns are well-suited for applications using solid welding wire and those in confined spaces. These include, but are not limited to applications in the shipbuilding and heavy equipment manufacturing industries, as well as general manufacturing and fabrication. They are also ideal for welding on stainless steel applications, as this material generates greater levels of hexavalent chromium, and on mild and carbon steel applications. The guns also work well on high amperage and high deposition rate applications and are available, typically, in 300 to 600 amp ranges. Fume extraction guns attach to a localized filtration system, as shown here. Fume removal occurs by way of a vacuum chamber in the fume extraction gun that suctions the fumes through the handle of the gun, into the gun’s hose through to a port on the filtration system. For the best results, fume extraction guns should be used for in-position welding, such as on flat butt welds. In this position, they can most effectively capture fume particles as they rise from the weld pool. In out-of-position welds, the energy of the fume particles causes them to rise at a high rate, making it more difficult for the fume extraction gun to draw them downward and through the vacuum hose. One distinct advantage to fume extraction guns is that they remove the fumes at the source. This will minimize the amount that enters the welding operator’s immediate breathing zone. As with any piece of welding equipment, fume extraction guns benefit from preventive maintenance. Caring for them is similar to caring for a standard GMAW gun. Regularly check for tight connections throughout the length of the fume extraction gun to ensure good electrical flow. Minimizing electrical resistance helps ensure consistent weld quality and prevent premature failure of the front-end consumables — contact tip, nozzle and diffuser. Frequently inspect the nozzle and contact tip for signs of spatter build-up, too, as such build-up can obstruct shielding gas flow and cause weld defects that ultimately will need to be reworked. Spatter build-up can also cause consumables to fail prematurely. Replace the consumables if spatter build-up appears or clean them according to the manufacturer’s recommendation. In some cases the shroud that surrounds the nozzle may also have to be replaced or cleaned free of spatter. To ensure optimal fume extraction capabilities, inspect the vacuum hose regularly for damage, including cuts or kinks that could lead to loss of suction. Replace a damaged vacuum hose as necessary and dispose of it according to the manufacturer’s and/or an industrial hygienist’s directions. Visually inspect the handle for cracks or missing screws, and also check that the gun’s trigger is not sticking or otherwise malfunctioning. Replace or repair these components as necessary. Finally, maintenance on the liner is also important. As with the vacuum hose, use compressed air to clear out any potential blockages during welding wire changeovers or when removing the wire from the gun. Spending an extra few minutes clearing out any debris from the liner can save considerably more time than troubleshooting the weld defects and equipment problems that can result from blockages. Also, track the amount of time that it takes for a liner to wear during the course of the welding operation. Replace the liner prior to that in the future to prevent downtime for replacement during shifts or problems with wire feeding or quality. When in doubt about maintenance or any other aspect of using a fume extraction gun, consider working with a trusted welding distributor, certified industrial hygienist and/or the fume extraction gun manufacturer to address any questions or concerns. Proper use of this equipment can help provide optimal results, and improve the safety and comfort of the welding environment. Regardless of your experience level, keeping your weld environment safe is a top priority. A multifaceted approach to fume mitigation can help you maximize safety and efficiency. Could it be time to take a closer look at your fume control strategies? Read our article published in the February issue of Fabricating & Metalworking. For the past 40 years, 4-Star Trailers in Oklahoma has built high-quality aluminum stock and horse trailers. Aluminum is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and strong—ideal for trailers designed to endure tough road conditions. However, welding aluminum with a push-pull gun has its challenges. The heaviness of the tool can make it difficult to maneuver in tight angles, and the added weight can lead to welder fatigue, especially when working on large parts or frames. Additionally, this setup can cause delays in production timelines due to discomfort and inefficiency during long hours of use. Before switching to the Bernard® BTB Semi-Automatic Air-Cooled MIG Gun, the team regularly faced feeding issues. The feeding problems were especially noticeable when working on large aluminum parts, causing disruptions and affecting their ability to keep up with demanding production schedules. The difficulty in maneuvering the push-pull gun, coupled with the physical strain it placed on welders, contributed to frequent delays and a slower pace of work. The BTB Gun has been a game-changer. It pushes aluminum wire long distances with ease, something that wasn’t possible with the previous system. Its design is lightweight and maneuverable, making it far easier for welders to handle, especially in tight spots. This has significantly reduced fatigue, allowing the team to work longer and more comfortably without sacrificing quality. The customizable neck lengths of the BTB Gun are another huge advantage, allowing welders to reach into tight angles or handle bigger components with greater ease. The Easy Feed Liner in the BTB Gun reduces friction, making it simpler to feed aluminum wire and minimizing downtime—critical for maintaining a steady workflow in a busy shop. With fewer interruptions, the team is able to stick to production goals and meet deadlines more effectively. The use of AccuLock consumables also contributes to less maintenance, as they last longer than other options, cutting down on the frequency of replacements and the time spent on maintenance tasks. The biggest benefit? The team is more productive and satisfied with their work. With fewer interruptions and smoother operations, they’re able to produce high-quality welds faster. The BTB Gun has not only made their jobs easier but also helped the business run more efficiently. It’s become an indispensable tool in their shop, enabling them to build even tougher, more dependable trailers while improving overall productivity and welder satisfaction. MIG welding is a common welding process especially useful for beginner and DIY welders due to its easy-to-learn nature, shorter lead times and lower production costs. The versatility of MIG welding allows users to work on a wide range of materials with less stopping and restarting. The process features a continuous consumable wire electrode being fed through a welding gun and into a weld pool. The gun also feeds a shielding gas alongside the wire to protect the weld pool from contaminants. While there are different types of MIG guns that have unique parts (e.g., water-cooled, air-cooled, fume extraction), all MIG guns have some parts in common. Understanding the components of a MIG gun and the process by which it works will help you make decisions on the consumables and gun type you select for your job. Here’s what you need to know. 1. Nozzle 2. Contact Tip 3. Diffuser 4. Liner 5. Neck 6. Handle and Trigger 7. Cable Assembly 8. Insulator 9. Power Pin We’re thrilled to announce that Bernard® and Tregaskiss® have undergone an exciting brand refresh. As of today, you will notice our updated logos and visual branding on our website, social media channels, and promotional items. This change marks a significant step forward in our journey to enhance our brands’ presence and commitment to excellence in the welding industry. In a competitive market, it’s essential to evolve and stay ahead. Our refreshed visual identity reflects our We’re confident that these updates will strengthen our brands and provide you with an even better Mastering preventive maintenance, timely consumable replacements, and proper liner trimming are key to prolonging the lifetime of MIG welding equipment. Discover proactive measures to follow for enhancing durability and performance while decreasing downtime, boosting productivity, and cutting operating costs by reading our full article in the March 2024 issue of MetalForming Magazine. MIG welding is considered one of the easiest welding processes to learn and is useful for a variety of applications and industries. To maximize the benefits this versatile process offers, it is imperative to select the right MIG gun for the job. Choosing the right MIG gun directly affects efficiency, quality and safety — a trifecta every operator is trying to master to create a more comfortable and effective environment. There are five key factors when choosing the right MIG gun for your needs. More and more welding operations are investing in robotic welding systems to gain a competitive edge. Such systems not only deliver fine-tuned programming to ensure the accuracy, speed and repeatability needed for generating high-quality welds, they also further productivity and efficiency for an operation. Along with the productivity gains and quality improvements, saving money is a key reason companies are choosing to implement them. Here are seven ways companies can increase cost savings and ROI — beyond the benefits of the robotic welding system itself. Regardless of your skill level, you need to make sure that the equipment you use, works as hard as you do. Consider these components of your welding system to help weld conistency. Could it be time to take a good look at your equipment? Read our article published in the November issue of Fabricating & Metalworking. Learn how to recognize the key nuances between two welding-automation options, robots and cobots and how knowing these differences are essential to attain positive results. Have you ever wondered about the differences between robots and cobots? Learn more! “Choosing Between Robots and Cobots for Robotic Welding” in Metalforming Magazine South Louisiana Community College (SLCC) has made a game-changing decision to enhance its welding education program by incorporating Bernard semi-automatic welding guns and AccuLock consumables into its classrooms. This shift marks a significant departure from the MIG guns and consumables they had been using for decades. The transition began within the last year after SLCC’s welding technology instructors began noticing some challenges the students were facing with the welding guns and consumables that they were using. They noticed it took students 20 minutes to change a liner with their current welding guns and consumables. Enter Bernard. After meeting with the instructors and listening to their pains points and need for improvement – Bernard configured a lightweight MIG welding gun with the AccuLock S dual-locked liner consumable system to test in the classrooms. Instructors and students immediately saw the benefits. The AccuLock S dual-locked liner system makes liner installation error-proof by eliminating the guesswork and potential errors that can occur when trimming a liner. More importantly, it maximized their limited time in the classroom. The superior performance of AccuLock contact tips stood out most. SLCC saw a remarkable 50% improvement in tip life compared to the products they were using previously. AccuLock contact tips lasted twice as long. The school found the benefits of using Bernard’s MIG welding guns and AccuLock S consumables for instructional purposes were clearly evident. The lightweight and durable design, coupled with the extended consumable life delivered a substantial return on investment. Not only does the switch to Bernard provide cost savings, but it also equips inexperienced welders with the tools that can withstand the rigors of training and real-world applications. Estimated reading time: 7 minutes Speed, accuracy, repeatability — welding automation boasts some big benefits. Using robots across a myriad of manufacturing applications has been a boon to the welding industry, but it hasn’t come without its fair share of misconceptions. Accepting those misconceptions could actually negate those big benefits — and no one has the time (or money) for that. Here are some common myths heard ’round the manufacturing floor — and where we land on them. There seems to be a halo effect around the word “anti” — if it’s anti-“something,” it’s often assumed that the more you use, the better off you’ll be. In welding, that’s not necessarily the case. Using too much anti-spatter spray can actually cause more problems than it solves. When applying it to hot consumables, spraying just enough for it to dry on contact will create a sacrificial barrier that spatter won’t stick to as easily. If the solution is applied to the point where it’s dripping from the torch, it’s too much — and the excess spray will leak all over the parts and weld cell, leading to compromised weld quality, a messier weld cell and premature failure of the torch parts/consumables. Some operators will “dip” the consumables into a cup of the anti-spatter instead of spraying it, but this is also problematic because excess solution can cause the nozzle to become saturated and fail prematurely. When welds are off location, there’s usually an underlying issue that’s causing the problem. Tip bore wear, variations in stamping batches or parts being misaligned due to tooling/spatter can all create a situation where welds are off location. Here, reassessing TCP can help determine what the root problem is rather than just blaming the torch and touching up points. Apply only enough to get the job done. Tips to keep in mind when applying anti-spatter solution include: Contact tips can be the difference-maker between running an efficient welding process and accruing unwanted downtime. For smaller wire sizes in semi-automatic (or handheld) welding, using a contact tip that matches the size of the wire often leads to the desired results. However, in larger industrial operations where robotic welding is common, wire package size (vs. wire size) becomes more of the determining factor for selecting the proper tip size. Large-scale operations often use 1,000–2,000-pound drums or spools as the go-to options due to their high-volume output needs. The connection between the wire and the contact tip needs to be optimized for the tip to last as long as possible, which may require deviating from matching the tip and wire size. The adage goes, “You get what you pay for,” and that sentiment can definitely impact the quality of the work in welding. Investing in robotic welding equipment can add up quickly, so if there’s an opportunity to save a few bucks along the way, selecting a cheaper alternative seems like an appealing option. However, those savings often come at the expense of sacrificing product performance and weld quality, while creating more downtime. The issues experienced during the welding process will show in the end result, along with the bottom-line burn of frequent (and costly) consumable changeovers and excessive downtime for troubleshooting issues. Selecting high-quality, long-lasting consumables over cheaper alternatives will help reduce overall operating costs in the long run because it increases throughput while reducing inventory and downtime. Well … not necessarily. If the contact tip fails and you replace it, you can consider the problem “solved” for at least a short time. However, if the tip keeps failing quickly, it’s safe to say that there’s a greater issue at play. Many factors can cause a tip to fail, including feeding or grounding issues. In those cases, if you put a new tip on, you’re inevitably just waiting until it fails again because you’re not addressing the root cause. If you’re going through tips at a high rate, this is the time to assess your operation and make sure that the drive roll tension is correct and/or the liner is trimmed properly. These are two common issues that can easily cause excessive “burn backs”/tip failure. Choosing the right drive roll style and size for the wire being used is key to smooth and consistent wire feeding. However, if the tension is too high, or too low, it can diminish productivity, quality and efficiency. Tension that’s too tight can deform the wire, resulting in arc instability or burn backs (and too little tension can cause the wire to slip). If the system constantly needs more tension to push wire through, it likely means something else within the system is failing. For example, debris buildup in the liner can inhibit the right tension setting from being effective. To help mitigate the need to crank up the tension, make sure it is set correctly each time the wire spool/drum is changed. Additionally, be sure that the inlet guides are clear/not worn and clean the drive roll surfaces with a wire brush periodically to help maintain proper wire feeding. This is another instance where the idea of “more is better” can be misleading. You definitely need enough gas to cover the weld pool, but turning up the gas doesn’t necessarily result in less porosity — in fact, it could create turbulence and MORE porosity. Proper gas coverage is based on flow, not pressure. If a system isn’t set up properly and the nozzle gets blocked with too much spatter/debris, there won’t be sufficient gas volume (flow) to protect the pool. Leaks in the gas system or excess air flow within the weld cell can also impact the coverage of the weld pool, regardless of how high the gas flow rate is set. Instead of just defaulting to increasing the flow, do a quick run-through of the robotic system to verify that there is a proper tip-to-work distance and that the rest of the system is configured and running correctly. In many applications, weld locations are extremely important. Even though the robot is physically going where it’s programmed to go, if the wire isn’t placed in the joint properly, it could be detrimental to the end product. When welds are off location, there’s usually an underlying issue that’s causing the problem. Tip bore wear, variations in stamping batches or parts being misaligned due to tooling/spatter can all create a situation where welds are off location. Here, reassessing TCP can help determine what the root problem is rather than just blaming the torch and touching up points. Avoiding these common missteps in robotic welding will help you maximize uptime and throughput while minimizing costs — a win from start to finish. Written by Ryan Lizotte (ryan.lizotte@tregaskiss.com), Technical Services Manager, Tregaskiss.The New Clean Air E™ Fume Extraction MIG Gun Offers Superior Fume Capture, Enhanced Ergonomics
The New Clean Air E™ Fume Extraction MIG Gun Offers Superior Fume Capture, Enhanced Ergonomics
Up to 95% fume capture efficiency and optimized design make workspaces safer and reduce welder strain
Attacking Weld Fume at the Source
Attacking Weld Fume at the Source
The basics
Benefits of the Bernard® Clean Air™ E Fume Extraction Gun
Maximizing Performance
Proper maintenance and consumable usage
Fume extraction guns can provide results
Learn more about the Bernard® Clean Air E™
Fume Extraction Guns: Understanding the Basics
Fume Extraction Guns: Understanding the Basics
The basics of fume extraction guns
Applications, advantages and limitations
Maintenance tips
The Importance of Implementing a Layered Approach to Fume Mitigation
The Importance of Implementing a Layered Approach to Fume Mitigation
Bernard® BTB Gun Transforms Aluminum Welding for 4-Star Trailers
Bernard® BTB Gun Transforms Aluminum Welding for 4-Star Trailers
Key MIG Gun Components for Job Performance
Key MIG Gun Components for Job Performance
CONSUMABLES
ESSENTIAL GUN COMPONENTS
OTHER COMPONENTS
A Fresh Look for Bernard® and Tregaskiss®
A Fresh Look for Bernard® and Tregaskiss®
What’s New?
Bernard and Tregaskiss, while maintaining the core values and heritage of our brands.
convenience, tregaskiss.com will continue to redirect to the new site.
millerweldsstore.com and we’ve begun to provide new marketing collateral to our sales team.
rolled out gradually as existing stock is replenished.What’s Staying the Same?
MIG welding solutions remains steadfast.
durability of Bernard and Tregaskiss products.
excellence in robotic MIG guns continue to be the foundation of our brands.Why the Change?
dedication to innovation and leadership in the welding industry. By creating a more cohesive and modern brand image, we are reinforcing Bernard’s reputation as a leader in semi-automatic MIG gun solutions and Tregaskiss’ prominence in robotic MIG guns.Impact on Products and Marketing Materials:
existing stock is replenished.
durability and toughness of our products.
experience. If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.Extending the Life of Welding Guns and Consumables
Extending the Life of Welding Guns and Consumables
5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a MIG Welding Gun
5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a MIG Welding Gun
Click here to read the full article featured in the March 2024 issue of Fabricating and Metalworking Magazine.Ways to Save More Money With a Robotic Welding System
Ways to Save More Money With a Robotic Welding System
Read the full article featured in Fabricating & Metalworking Magazine.Five Equipment Adjustments to Improve Weld Quality
Five Equipment Adjustments to Improve Weld Quality
Choosing Between Robots and Cobots for Robotic Welding
Choosing Between Robots and Cobots for Robotic Welding
South Louisiana Community College Chooses Bernard® Semi-Automatic MIG Welding Guns and AccuLock™ Consumables for Welding Education | Customer Testimonial
South Louisiana Community College Chooses Bernard® Semi-Automatic MIG Welding Guns and AccuLock™ Consumables for Welding Education
Understand the Truth About These 7 Robotic Welding Myths
Understand the Truth About These 7 Robotic Welding Myths
Myth 1: The more anti-spatter solution you use, the better the results
Myth 2: Using a contact tip that matches the size of the wire always leads to the best results
Myth 3: The cheapest products will work
Myth 4: Changing the contact tip will always solve the problem
Myth 5: Higher drive roll tension results in better wire feeding
Myth 6: Increased gas flow results in less porosity
Myth 7: Off-location welds are always the gun’s fault
Republished with permission from Fabricating and Metalworking, (October 2023)
