Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About ArcReach® Technology
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Danny Mortensen
Business Development Manager, Miller Electric Mfg. LLC
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Learn what ArcReach technology is, how it works and how it helps welders adjust parameters at the weld joint.
What is ArcReach technology?
There are many types of remote control welding options for the jobsite, so what is ArcReach technology and what makes it different?
Learn how about how this technology can save time and money and help make your operation more competitive.
Q: How does ArcReach technology help welders?
- The technology makes it easier for operators to adjust parameters and processes at the weld joint so they can do their best work, without the hassle of frequent walks back to the power source. It also improves welder safety on the jobsite, since operators can stay put and avoid slip, trip and fall hazards. ArcReach technology offers point-of-use control (via a wire feeder or stick/TIG remote) without the need for a control cable. This allows the welder to make parameter adjustments, process changes and process selection at the weld joint. Operators can change parameters such as wire feed speed, voltage, amperage and arc control settings with the push of a button. In addition, ArcReach welding power sources that offer a polarity reversing model also allow operators to switch polarity with the push of a button where they are welding, so they don’t have to swap cables to change polarity. ArcReach systems detect electrode polarity and the connected ArcReach accessory and will set the power source to the correct process automatically.
Q: What can ArcReach technology do for my operation?
- It keeps welders at the joint. They no longer need to climb down several stories or walk across jobsites to make necessary parameter changes at the machine. This saves your operation hours each day. It also provides a safer jobsite for your welders, since they don’t have to walk back to the power source to make changes. Improved weld quality is another benefit. The technology eliminates the need for welders to settle for less-than-optimal settings when they complete welds away from the power source on the jobsite. The technology provides all of these capabilities without a control cable.
Watch this video to learn more about how ArcReach technology can deliver benefits on the jobsite:
Q: How do I know if ArcReach technology is a good option for my operation?
- If your welders frequently work away from the power source on the jobsite, ArcReach technology is likely a good solution. The larger your welding operation and the more operators you have, the faster the technology can provide ROI for you.
Q: Where can I find ArcReach technology?
Q: Do I need to be able to see the power source to use ArcReach technology, and how far away will it work?
- The technology does not require line of sight between the power source and the accessory. This is because the remote control capabilities are provided by the weld cables as opposed to using radio waves, which can be disrupted by obstructions or distance. As long as the weld cables are properly sized for the job, they have the ability to communicate to the power source up to several hundred feet away even without a direct line of sight.
Q: How is ArcReach technology different than Wireless Interface Control?
- Wireless Interface Control is a remote solution from Miller that provides full control of the front panel of an engine-driven power source in the palm of the operator’s hand for select Trailblazer 330 and Big Blue models. It is available on some different machines than ArcReach technology is available on. Wireless Interface Control is a handheld remote that is not tethered by any cables to an accessory or power source.
Q: How is ArcReach technology different from other remote welding technologies?
- ArcReach technology does not require a control cable between the power source and accessories to provide its remote functions and capabilities. Similar competitive technologies do require a control cable as the communication link between the power source and the accessory. Eliminating the control cable reduces the hassle of cable management and costs to maintain and repair control cables, which are easily damaged on jobsites.
Q: Can I use ArcReach accessories with non-Miller welding equipment?
- ArcReach wire feeders function like volt-sensing wire feeders on non-ArcReach or non-Miller equipment. However, the ArcReach Stick/TIG Remote and ArcReach Heater accessories are not compatible with non-ArcReach power sources.
Q: How has ArcReach technology been used at other companies, and what does their ROI look like?
Learn more about ArcReach technology and how it can benefit your welders — and your bottom line.