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Where Can Welding Take You? Explore the Career Paths and Salaries in Today’s Welding Industry

Posted on 08/07/2025

If you’re thinking about a career in welding, you’re not just looking at one job - you’re opening the door to an industry full of opportunity. From infrastructure and automotive work to the creative arts and agriculture, welding skills are in high demand across the UK.

If you’re thinking about a career in welding, you’re not just looking at one job - you’re opening the door to an industry full of opportunity. From infrastructure and automotive work to the creative arts and agriculture, welding skills are in high demand across the UK.

Fabricator

Average Salary: £26K – £35K
Fabricators cut, shape, and assemble metal parts to create everything from machine components to large structures. Fabrication work can be found in construction, manufacturing, and engineering sectors.

Structural Welder

Salary: £38K – £48K+
Structural welders work on bridges, buildings, pipelines, and other load-bearing steel structures. It’s a skilled role that often involves working at height and following strict safety protocols - with excellent earning potential.

Automotive Technician

Average Salary: £25K – £35K
Welding plays a key role in automotive repair and customisation. Whether you're fixing bodywork, restoring classic cars, or working on performance modifications, this path suits those with a passion for vehicles.

Marine Welder

Salary: £25K – £45K+
Marine welders work on ships, submarines, and offshore platforms. This role can involve travel, physical demands, and sometimes hazardous conditions – but it’s also one of the better-paid and more adventurous welding paths.

Agricultural Equipment Technician

Salary: £25K – £35K
Agricultural technicians repair and maintain the machinery that keeps farms running. Welding is essential in this sector for fixing structural components, trailers, and mechanical systems.

Metal Artist

Salary: £25K – £40K+ (varies)
If you’re creatively minded, welding can even take you into the world of metal sculpture and design. Metal artists use a variety of welding techniques to bring their visions to life – often combining creativity with technical skill.

Get Started with Our Welding Courses in Telford

At our dedicated training school in Telford, we offer a full range of welding courses suitable for absolute beginners through to experienced welders looking to advance or specialise.

Our courses are practical, supportive, and industry-aligned – ensuring you gain real-world welding skills that employers value.

Whether you're changing careers, entering the workforce, or looking to upskill, our experienced instructors are here to help you build a strong foundation in welding.

Location: Welding Superstore, Enterprise House, Stafford Park 1, Telford, TF3 3BD

Courses: Beginner to Advanced

Flexible Start Dates

Contact Us Today to Learn More – sales@weldingsuperstore.co.uk

or Book Your Place Online:

Now Available: Parweld XTM405I Multi-Process MIG Welders

Posted on 01/07/2025

We’ve just loaded up and delivered a batch of Parweld XTM405I 400A MIG Inverter Welders to a local customer - and we’re excited to announce that this powerful machine is now also available to order directly from our website.

The customer approached us looking for a high-performance, multi-process MIG welder that could also handle Lift TIG and MMA with key features like synergic control, a separate wire feeder and the flexibility to upgrade to water cooling later down the line.

After discussing their requirements, we recommended the Parweld XTM405I – a robust, 400V three-phase inverter designed for demanding workshop environments. Pre-mounted on a durable trolley with a storage drawer, it arrives ready to perform straight out of the box.

With growing interest in this model, we’ve now added it to our standard range - meaning you can order yours today from the Welding Superstore website.

View the full product details and order here:
https://weldingsuperstore.co.uk/parweld-xtm-405i-multi-process-mig-inverter-welder.html

Need something similar or not listed online?
Email us at sales@weldingsuperstore.co.uk - we’re happy to help source the right solution.

How Often Should You Replace Fume Extractor Filters?

Posted on 25/06/2025

If you're running a welding workshop, fume extraction is essential — but so is maintaining it properly. One of the most common questions we hear from customers is:

"How often should I replace my fume extractor filters?"

It’s a critical question. Let’s break it down.

Understanding Filter Maintenance

Fume extractors like the Kemper ProfiMaster and Kemper SmartMaster are engineered to capture and remove harmful welding fumes from your workspace. But even the best units are only as effective as their filters.

Over time, filters become saturated with particulate matter, reducing airflow and extraction performance. Left unchanged, this not only reduces the effectiveness of the system but also risks exposing your team to hazardous fumes and damaging the extractor itself.

Manufacturer-Recommended Filter Change Schedules

Filter replacement intervals depend on the extractor model and usage levels. The following schedules are based on manufacturer recommendations for 15kg reels of welding wire:

Kemper ProfiMaster

• Pre-filter mats (Pack of 10): Replace every 2–3 reels of wire
• Main filter: Replace every 30 reels

Kemper SmartMaster

• Pre-filter mats (Pack of 10): Replace every 1.5 reels of wire
• Pre-filter cassette: Replace every 7.5 reels
• Main filter: Replace every 15 reels

These intervals can vary depending on the materials you're welding and the frequency of use, but they provide a solid guideline for planning preventative maintenance.

Why Regular Filter Changes Matter

1. Protect Operator Health
   Overused filters can no longer trap harmful particles effectively, exposing welders and nearby staff to dangerous fumes.
2. Maintain Extraction Efficiency
   Clean filters keep the airflow strong, ensuring that fumes are captured before they spread through the workshop.
3. Prolong Equipment Life
   A blocked filter forces the machine to work harder, increasing wear and the likelihood of breakdowns.

Stocked & Ready to Ship

We stock all recommended Kemper replacement filters - including pre-filter mats, pre-filter cassettes, and main filters - and offer:

• Next working day delivery to UK mainland
• Free delivery on orders over £75

If you're unsure which filters you need or how often you should be replacing them based on your setup, feel free to get in touch with our team for tailored advice.

Make It Part of Your Routine

Don’t wait until airflow drops or a filter warning light flashes - make fume extractor filter maintenance part of your regular workshop checks. Clean air means safer staff, longer-lasting machines, and a more productive workspace.

Explore our full range of Kemper filters here.

Massive Telwin Welding Equipment Sale Now Live 2025

Posted on 16/06/2025

If you're in the market for high-performance welding equipment, now’s the time to invest. Welding Superstore is offering massive savings of up to 38% on a wide range of Telwin welding machines.

All products in the sale are available with fast UK shipping and free delivery on orders over £75 to UK mainland.

You can explore the full sale range at:
 https://weldingsuperstore.co.uk/specials.html

 Product Spotlight 1: Ex-Demo Telwin Inverpulse 425 MIG Aqua Package

Designed for heavy-duty industrial use, the Telwin Inverpulse 425 offers a powerful blend of MIG/MAG, TIG DC Lift, and MMA welding capabilities. This ex-demo unit is a rare opportunity to get a premium multi-process system at a significantly reduced price.

Equipped with SYNERGIC control, pulse and double-pulse functions, and the ability to store up to 40 custom programs, the Inverpulse 425 is ideal for welding materials such as steel, stainless steel, aluminium, high-strength steel, and galvanised sheets.

This machine is supplied with:

• Water-cooled MB500 MIG torch
• Earth lead and regulator
• Power cable with 5-pin 32A plug
• MIG/MAG accessories and trolley

With advanced arc control, a four-roll wire feed system, and integrated protection features, the Inverpulse 425 is built to deliver precise, repeatable results in even the most demanding workshop environments.

 Technical Highlights:

• 3-phase, 400V power supply
• Max output: 350A @ 40% duty cycle
• Supports MIG, TIG Lift, and MMA (electrodes up to 6mm)
• Water-cooled and remote-ready
• Dimensions: 113 x 58 x 146 cm
• Weight: 117 kg

 As an ex-demo model, this unit offers exceptional value without compromising on performance – ideal for fabrication shops looking to upgrade without overspending.

View full spec: https://weldingsuperstore.co.uk/ex-demo-telwin-inverpulse-425-mig-aqua-package.html

 Product Spotlight 2: Telwin Advance 227XT MV/PFC VRD MMA Welder Dual Voltage

Need a reliable site-ready MMA/TIG welder that delivers consistent results even in unpredictable power conditions? Look no further than the Telwin Advance 227XT MV/PFC VRD. This compact, lightweight, and rugged inverter welder is a favourite among mobile welders, contractors, and professionals working in remote or varied environments.

The Advance 227XT features dual voltage input (100-240V), making it perfect for both domestic mains and generator use. With MV/PFC (Multi Voltage/Power Factor Correction) and VRD (Voltage Reduction Device) technology, it ensures stable performance and operator safety.

Compatible with a wide range of electrodes – including rutile, basic, stainless steel, and cast iron – this machine offers hot start, arc force, and anti-stick functions for seamless arc control.

Technical Highlights:

• MMA & TIG DC (Lift) capabilities
• Max output: 200A
• VRD safety system
• Operates on long extension leads (up to 250m)
• Aluminium carry case included
• Only 11.64 kg for easy portability

 If you need a professional-grade inverter welder that performs just as well on-site as it does in the workshop, the Advance 227XT is a smart, reliable choice.

View full spec: https://weldingsuperstore.co.uk/telwin-advance-227xt-mv-pfc-vrd-mma-welder-dual-voltage.html

Want to See These Machines in Person?

If you’d like to view the Telwin Inverpulse 425 or Advance 227XT before buying, you’re welcome to visit our fully-stocked showroom located at:

Enterprise House, Stafford Park 1, Telford, TF3 3BD

Our experienced team is on hand to answer your questions and help you find the right machine for your needs.

With savings of up to 38% and limited stock available, this is the perfect opportunity to invest in professional-grade Telwin welding equipment at a discounted price. Whether you're looking for industrial MIG capability or portable MMA welding solutions, these spotlighted machines represent the best in Italian engineering - at prices designed to suit your budget.

 Browse all Telwin sale items now at: https://weldingsuperstore.co.uk/specials.html

Men’s Health Week 2025: Why It Matters in the Welding and Trades Industry

Posted on 09/06/2025

This week marks Men’s Health Week 2025 — a vital opportunity to raise awareness about the health challenges men face, especially in physically demanding and high-pressure professions like welding and other skilled trades.

This week marks Men’s Health Week 2025 — a vital opportunity to raise awareness about the health challenges men face, especially in physically demanding and high-pressure professions like welding and other skilled trades.

Held annually during the week leading up to Father’s Day in June, Men’s Health Week was established by the Men’s Health Forum to shine a light on preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment. This year's focus is on encouraging men to speak up, take action, and support each other, both on site and off.

The Hidden Health Crisis in Trades:

Working in trades like welding, fabrication, and construction brings its own set of physical and mental health challenges. Long hours, demanding environments, and exposure to hazards can take their toll.

Here are just a few statistics that underline the importance of Men’s Health Week in the industry:

• 82% of tradespeople have experienced stress, anxiety, or depression due to work.
• 92% feel uncomfortable talking about it with colleagues or employers.
• Thousands of welders and fabricators across the UK suffer from work-related breathing issues due to long-term exposure to fumes and poor air quality in workshops and job sites.

This isn’t just a personal issue — it’s an industry-wide concern. Healthier workers are safer, more productive, and better equipped to do the job for the long term.

Why It’s Time to Talk

Mental health is still a difficult subject in male-dominated industries. The culture of “cracking on” and staying silent can lead to problems going unnoticed until they become serious.

At Welding Superstore, we’re encouraging everyone in the trade to check in with themselves and their mates. Whether it’s taking a break, using proper PPE, or just having a chat, small steps can make a big difference.

What You Can Do

Here are a few practical ways to look after your health this Men’s Health Week and beyond:

• Use proper fume extraction and respiratory protection on the job.
• Talk openly about mental health — even a quick chat can help someone feel less alone.
• Take regular breaks and look after your body with proper rest and hydration.
• Reach out if you’re struggling. Help is available.

Useful UK Resources

If you or someone you know needs support, here are some trusted places to turn:

• Men’s Health Forum – Campaigns and resources for Men’s Health Week
• Mates in Mind – Mental health support for the construction and trades industries
• NHS Every Mind Matters – Free mental health support and self-help tools
• Construction Industry Helpline – Confidential helpline for construction workers and families

Your Health Matters

This Men’s Health Week, let’s make a commitment to protect what matters most — your health. At Welding Superstore, we’re proud to support the people who keep workshops, job sites and industries moving. Let’s keep looking out for each other.

For more safety tips, protective gear, and fume extraction solutions, explore our shop or get in touch with our team.

Welding Superstore Welcomes June with Gratitude and a Growing Community

Posted on 02/06/2025

Can you believe we’re in June already? It feels like the year has flown by — and here at Welding Superstore, we’re taking a moment to reflect on what has been an incredibly busy and exciting few months.

Products in picture: 150mm Bandsaw, Bandsaw Blades, CT-90, ISO Cut Gloves

So far in 2025, we’ve seen a fantastic level of support from both loyal returning customers and an increasing number of new faces discovering what we do. To all of you — thank you! Your continued trust in our team and our products means the world to us, and we’re proud to be a part of your workshops, businesses, and projects across the UK.

Products in picture: MIG Wire, PAPR Helmet, Welding Jacket, Welding Gloves

As we head into the summer months, we’ve noticed a real influx of first-time visitors, so if you're new around here, allow us to (re)introduce ourselves.

Hi!  We’re Welding Superstore, your go-to destination for everything welding, fabrication, workshop essentials, consumables, and safety gear. Whether you're a seasoned pro with decades of experience, a small business owner growing your toolkit, or someone just starting out in the trade, we’re here to support you with the right tools, expert advice, and reliable service.

With over 30 years in the industry, our team prides itself on combining deep product knowledge with a friendly, down-to-earth approach. We know how important it is to have the right equipment when you need it, which is why we stock a range of leading brands and offer fast delivery across the UK. But we’re not just here to sell — we’re also on hand to offer guidance, recommendations, and even repairs from our workshop team based in Telford.

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If you haven’t already, we’d love for you to explore our full range online at  weldingsuperstore.co.uk

And if you’re ever stuck or can’t find what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01952 290800. Our friendly team is always happy to help.

Here’s to a productive summer — and thank you again for being part of the Welding Superstore community.

Welding Duty Cycle Explained: Why It’s One of the Most Important Specs to Understand

Posted on 27/05/2025

When browsing welding machines or reading a spec sheet, you’ll often see figures like “60% @ 200A” or “100% @ 160A.” These aren’t just numbers—they’re critical to how your welder performs and lasts.

A welding duty cycle describes how long a welder can operate at a given amperage within a 10-minute cycle without overheating. For example:

• A 60% duty cycle at 200 amps means the machine can weld for 6 minutes continuously at that current, then must cool down for 4 minutes.
• A 100% duty cycle at 160 amps allows continuous welding with no pause required.

Why Does Duty Cycle Matter?

Ignoring duty cycles can result in:

• Thermal shutdowns that interrupt workflow.
• Premature equipment failure.
• Inconsistent weld quality.

For workshops aiming to improve efficiency, safety, and machine longevity, understanding duty cycles is essential.

Factors That Influence Duty Cycle

Several factors affect a welder's duty cycle:

• Ambient temperature: Ratings are typically based on 40°C environments—cooler conditions may improve performance.
• Machine size and cooling systems: Fan-cooled or water-cooled systems tend to have better duty cycles.
• Power source type: Inverter-based machines often offer better duty cycles than transformer-based units.

How to Choose the Right Welder Based on Duty Cycle

1. Assess your average welding time and amperage needs. If you're welding high-current jobs back-to-back, look for a welder with a high duty cycle.
2. Don’t just buy the biggest machine. Overspending on amperage you won’t use wastes budget.
3. Match machine performance to task type. For example, intermittent TIG work on stainless steel has very different demands than long MIG welds on thick mild steel.

Common Myths

• Myth: “100% duty cycle means better quality.”
  Truth: It means better thermal performance at a specific amperage—not necessarily better welds.
• Myth: “Duty cycle doesn’t matter for occasional users.”
  Truth: Even hobbyists can trip thermal overloads if they don’t know what the cycle is.

Duty cycles aren’t just a technical detail—they’re vital to productivity, safety, and machine life. Whether you're welding daily or just starting out, make sure you're matching your machine to your workload.

Need help picking the right welder for your needs?
Visit our showroom, explore our online range, or speak to one of our experts for advice.
Machine in images --> https://weldingsuperstore.co.uk/ex-demo-telwin-inverpulse-425-mig-aqua-package.html

The 4 Main Types of Welding Explained: MIG, TIG, Stick and Flux-Cored

Posted on 19/05/2025

When it comes to welding, choosing the right process is essential for ensuring the strength, appearance, and efficiency of your weld. Whether you're just getting started in the industry or looking to expand your knowledge, understanding the differences between the main types of welding is crucial.

In this article, we’ll explore the four primary types of welding: MIG, TIG, Stick, and Flux-Cored. We’ll break down how each works, their pros and cons, and the best applications for each process.

MIG Welding (Gas Metal Arc Welding – GMAW)

How it works:
MIG welding uses a continuously fed wire electrode and shielding gas to create a weld pool. The wire melts and joins the base materials together.

Best for:

• Mild and stainless steel
• Aluminium
• Sheet metal and automotive work

Pros:
 ✅ Easy to learn
 ✅ High productivity
 ✅ Cleaner process compared to stick

Cons:
 ❌ Requires shielding gas
 ❌ Less effective outdoors due to wind

TIG Welding (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding – GTAW)

How it works:
TIG welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and a separate filler rod. An inert gas (usually argon) protects the weld area from contamination.

Best for:

• Stainless steel
• Aluminium
• Thin metals and clean, cosmetic welds

Pros:
 ✅ Precise and clean welds
 ✅ No spatter
 ✅ Excellent control

Cons:
 ❌ Slower process
 ❌ Requires high skill level
 ❌ Not ideal for thicker materials

Stick Welding (Shielded Metal Arc Welding – SMAW)

How it works:
Stick welding uses a consumable electrode coated in flux. When melted, the flux creates a shielding gas to protect the weld from contaminants.

Best for:

• Outdoor work
• Construction and repair
• Rusty or dirty metals

Pros:
 ✅ Works well in harsh conditions
 ✅ Inexpensive equipment
 ✅ No need for external gas

Cons:
 ❌ More cleanup due to slag
 ❌ Harder to learn for beginners
 ❌ Less precise than MIG or TIG

Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW)

How it works:
Flux-cored welding is similar to MIG, but the wire has a flux core. This creates its own shielding gas as it burns, allowing for outdoor use.

Best for:

• Structural work
• Thick materials
• Outdoor fabrication

Pros:
 ✅ Suitable for windy environments
 ✅ High deposition rate
 ✅ Ideal for thicker metals

Cons:
 ❌ Produces slag
 ❌ Can be messy without good technique

Each welding process has its own strengths and weaknesses. The right choice depends on your project, environment, material type, and skill level.

At Welding Superstore, we supply equipment for MIG, TIG, Stick, and Flux-Cored welding, along with expert advice to help you find the right tools for the job.

If you’re looking to learn more or upgrade your setup, get in touch with our team today.

Welding Fumes: The Hidden Danger in Your Workshop – And How to Protect Yourself

Posted on 12/05/2025

Welding is a craft built on precision and power—but it also hides a less visible threat: welding fumes. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a weekend fabricator, understanding what’s in the air around you could be the difference between a healthy career and chronic illness.

In this article, we’ll break down:

• What welding fumes are
• Health risks associated with exposure
• Legal responsibilities under UK law
• Practical steps to protect yourself and your team

What Are Welding Fumes?

Welding fumes are a complex mixture of metal particles and gases released during welding processes like MIG, TIG, MMA, and plasma cutting. These fumes vary depending on the materials and consumables used but may include:

• Iron oxide
• Hexavalent chromium
• Manganese
• Nickel
• Zinc oxide (especially when welding galvanised materials)

Health Risks: Short-Term and Long-Term Exposure

Short-term exposure may cause:

• Irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat
• Nausea and dizziness
• Metal fume fever (common with zinc exposure)

Long-term exposure has been linked to:

• Chronic bronchitis
• Decreased lung function
• Neurological damage (due to manganese)
• Increased risk of lung cancer (especially from stainless steel welding)

The Legal View: What the HSE Says

In the UK, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued strict guidance following research by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifying welding fumes as a Group 1 carcinogen.

As of 2019, there is no safe level of exposure to welding fumes, and all employers are legally required to provide effective controls—including fume extraction and respiratory protective equipment (RPE).

How to Stay Safe: Workshop Best Practices

1. Use LEV (Local Exhaust Ventilation)
   Systems like mobile fume extractors and arm-mounted units capture fumes at the source.
2. Wear the Right Respiratory Protection
   RPE such as PAPR (Powered Air Purifying Respirators) helmets protect when fume capture isn’t enough.
3. Improve General Ventilation
   Ensure your workshop has good airflow and air changes per hour.
4. Monitor Air Quality
   Use air quality testing or HSE’s COSHH guidance to assess whether your setup is adequate.
5. Educate Your Team
   Safety training should include fume awareness and PPE usage.

How We Can Help

At Welding Superstore, we supply a wide range of Kemper fume extractors, PAPR helmets, and other safety solutions. Whether you're upgrading your current system or setting up from scratch, our team can help you meet safety regulations and protect your health.

Welding fumes aren’t always visible—but the damage they cause can be life-changing. Investing in the right equipment and education is the smartest move any welder or workshop manager can make.

Need advice on fume extraction or PPE?
Get in touch with our team on 01952 290800 / sales@weldingsuperstore.co.uk  or browse our Kemper fume extractor collection.

Stock Up and Save on Workshop Consumables – Bulk Deals Available Now

Posted on 06/05/2025

Keeping your workshop running smoothly means having the right consumables on hand when you need them.

Keeping your workshop running smoothly means having the right consumables on hand when you need them. That’s why we’ve created a dedicated Workshop Consumables promotional category at Welding Superstore – making it easy for you to stock up on the essentials and take advantage of bulk buy offers that save you time and money.

What’s in the Workshop Consumables Range?

Whether you’re working in a fabrication shop, garage, manufacturing environment or doing site work, consumables are the unsung heroes of the job. Our Workshop Consumables category includes a wide range of must-have items, all available at competitive prices:

• Non-Woven Hand Pads – Ideal for surface preparation, blending, and finishing without altering the base material.
• Action Can Aerosols – A popular range including AC-90 Multi-Purpose Lubricant, cutting fluids and degreasers to keep your tools and materials in top condition.
• TIG Welding Rods – Quality filler rods for aluminium, perfect for precision welding work.
• Mag Drill Hole Cutters – Essential for clean, accurate cuts when working with magnetic drill systems.
• Nitrile Gloves – Durable and chemical-resistant, nitrile gloves are ideal for keeping hands protected during messy jobs.
• Cutting Discs – Stock up on discs for cutting through steel and other metals – available in a range of sizes.

These are the everyday items your team uses constantly – so it makes sense to buy smart and keep your supplies topped up.

Bulk Buy Offers – Bigger Quantities, Better Value

To help workshops reduce downtime and cut costs, we’re also running bulk buy deals on some of the most-used cleaning and maintenance products:

• Blue Roll – Strong, absorbent and ideal for mopping up oil, grease and spills in any workshop or garage.
• Mixed Cleaning Rags – An affordable solution for general-purpose cleaning, wiping, and spill control.
• Multi-Use Wonder Wipes – Perfect for cleaning hands, tools, and surfaces quickly and easily without water.

Buying in bulk not only brings down the unit cost – it also means fewer last-minute trips for supplies and a more efficient workflow.

Found another product you require in bulk? Send us an email and we’ll see what we can do sales@weldingsuperstore.co.uk

Why Choose Welding Superstore?

With years of experience supplying to the welding and fabrication industries, we know how important it is to get quality products fast. Our workshop consumables are carefully selected from trusted brands to deliver reliability, performance, and value.

We also offer next working day delivery on UK Mainland orders placed before 3pm (Mon–Thurs), and our team is on hand to help with product advice or order queries if you need a hand.

Shop the Workshop Consumables Category

Whether you're restocking the basics or looking to take advantage of our latest deals, head over to the Workshop Consumables category now to see what’s on offer:

 Browse the full range here