Welding truck equipment for mobile welding repair
The need for emergency repairs can add up to major costs for mining, rail and heavy equipment operations. This is because downtime means lost revenue and project delays.
When a heavy weld mobile maintenance and repair truck is called in to make repairs, speed is the priority.
Versatile, engine-driven welder/generators tailored for these larger, Class 5 to Class 7 MRO trucks can reduce exposure to safety risks, deliver reliability and help fabricators improve productivity so they can get critical jobs done faster for customers.
Learn more about welder/generator capabilities and technologies that help overcome three common challenges and optimize performance on the jobsite in MRO and mobile welding.
Reducing exposure to safety risks
Eliminating slips, trips and falls is a top-of-mind issue for mobile welders and technicians. On some larger trucks, operators may make adjustments on equipment in the truck bed and then climb down several feet to the ground — where there could be obstacles such as railroad ties or other uneven surfaces.
Engine drive solutions with accessible panels and remote capabilities can help reduce the risk of slip, trip and fall hazards. When an operator doesn’t need to climb on and off the truck, it reduces the risk of encountering jobsite hazards.
Look for an engine drive that offers:
- Remote solutions: New Wireless Interface Control is an option on Trailblazer® and Big Blue® welder/generators from Miller. Operators can remotely adjust amperage and voltage and customize welding programs. They can also turn the welder/generator on and off, select processes, and fine-tune the welding arc to tailor arc responsiveness to better handle changing joint conditions — all from where they’re working. ArcReach® technology is another remote solution that lets operators make parameter adjustments at the joint using a wire feeder or remote.
- Modified truck mount design: A lowered ignition switch and engine display make it easier for operators to reach all of the essential controls for the welder/generator while standing on the ground outside of the truck.
- Remote panels: The Remote Panel Kit for Miller® engine drives allows operations to mount the weld terminals and power receptacles wherever is most convenient for the operator. This provides an added layer of convenience and safety. Operators can access controls and plug in tools and lights from the ground, without having to climb into the truck.
Improving jobsite productivity in MRO
Unplanned downtime on a jobsite can lead to major delays and lost revenue potential. These operations often know exactly how much money downtime is costing them — down to the minute.
When broken equipment cause unplanned downtime on these jobsites, they want welders or technicians who can respond quickly.
Heavy weld mobile maintenance and repair trucks must streamline time for a technician to respond, set up and make repairs. This makes productivity crucial.
Look for an engine drive that offers:
- Point-of-use controls: The ability to make adjustments to processes or parameters with a remote or wire feeder right where they are working helps operators save time. Wireless Interface Control provides full control of the machine in the operator’s hand, including turning the air compressor on/off. ArcReach technology is another option, allowing welders to adjust parameters from the feeder or remote without returning to the truck.
- Wire welding options: While technicians commonly use stick welding and gouging on these jobsites, they also use wire welding processes for many applications. Engine drives that are compatible with different wire feeder options provide flexibility on the jobsite. ArcReach SuitCase® feeders are compatible with select Miller engine drives and are capable of wire processes for more critical repairs.
- Versatility and dual operator capabilities: The job might require welding, carbon arc gouging, auxiliary power or an air compressor. It’s more convenient to have one machine that offers all of these options. Some welder/generators also feature dual operator capabilities to run 800 amps for a single weld operator or 400 amps each for two operators.
- Easier machine setup and improved control: A simplified interface that’s easy to understand and use helps operators set up and get jobs done faster. Some welder/generators also offer features that improve control of the arc for smoother, more consistent results, minimizing downtime for rework.
Engine drive reliability for welding trucks
An MRO or welding repair job already involves unplanned downtime, so unexpected downtime due to an engine-driven welder/generator that isn’t working or constantly in need of service is the last thing an operator wants.
Machine reliability is critical to getting jobs done faster and keeping customers happy, so it’s important to have an engine drive that works when it’s needed.
Look for an engine drive that offers:
- High quality and reliability: Investing in a higher-quality machine with a track record of performance and reliability can pay off in the long run. From greater fuel efficiency to reduced downtime for maintenance or unplanned repairs, a quality engine drive saves time and money.
- Easy service and maintenance: Some manufacturers design machines for easier access when routine maintenance like oil changes are needed. This helps operators complete machine service faster so they can get back to the jobsite.
Optimized engine drives for MRO trucks
Mobile welding, maintenance and repairs in the field require a range of capabilities. And it’s often critical to get these jobs done quickly.
A welding truck with a versatile and robust engine drive optimized for the demands of a larger work truck delivers the power for almost any job. The right equipment can help reduce exposure to safety hazards on the jobsite, improve productivity and deliver reliability.