How to use a highoutput alternator as an emergency welder DIY

[yachtwork]

This article tells step by step instructions on how to turn most any large alternator into an emergency welder. Hope nobody ever needs the info, but if so hope it helps.


Scott




Emergency welding with a high output alternator

or

How to turn most any alternator in an emergency welding machine


For rest of article see -
Tonga Charter - Your South Pacific Sailing Dream

By: Scott Fratcher - Marine Engineer/Captain

Scott Fratcher explains how to make an emergency welder with a high-output alternator

It's possible to weld with nothing but an alternator driven by a small engine, and although it's not recommended as a day-to-day activity, it's useful in an emergency.
What if you were out at a remote island and broke a chain plate or your windlass mount cracked? This type of thing happens all the time with cruising boats.
Here's how it's done. Start with at least a 100amp alternator (120amp is perfect - Delco's CS144 alternator is great for this application).
You also need:

* A 110V 60W (or more) light bulb and socket;
* A few cables you can weld through (No. 4 or larger);
* A welding electrode (stinger);
* A small supply of 2.5mm welding rod (6013);
* A variable resister capable of passing four amps continuous. It should be a rugged variable resister, at least 50mm across.
To use your alternator as a welder you have to attach the welding cables to the back of the alternator. The ground lead is attached to the negative pole of the alternator and the positive lead conne ...

For rest of article see -
Tonga Charter - Your South Pacific Sailing Dream

Note - At the end of the article is a link to return to this forum.
__________________
Scott