By Jake Zwayer
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. Therefore when contractors call a heavy weld mobile maintenance and repair truck to fix equipment, quick repair is the priority.
Versatile, engine-driven welder/generators tailored for Class 5 to 7 maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) trucks can reduce safety risk exposure. They can also deliver reliability and help fabricators improve productivity so they can get critical jobs done faster for customers. Here you’ll learn about welder/generator capabilities and technologies that help overcome challenges and optimize performance in MRO and mobile welding.
REDUCE RISK EXPOSURE
Eliminating slips, trips, and falls is a top-of-mind issue for mobile welders and technicians. On larger trucks, operators may make adjustments on equipment in the truck bed and then climb down to the ground. This exposes operators to risk as there could be obstacles like railroad ties or other uneven surfaces on the ground.
Engine drive solutions with accessible panels and remote capabilities can help reduce the risk of slip, trip, and fall hazards. When operators don’t need to climb on and off the truck to access equipment, it reduces jobsite hazard risks. 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, customize welding programs, turn the welder/generator on and off, and select processes. They can also fine-tune the welding arc for responsiveness to better handle changing joint conditions—all from where they’re working. Miller also offers ArcReach® technology as another remote solution. It lets operators make parameter adjustments at the weld joint using a wire feeder or remote.
- Modified truck mount design: A lowered ignition switch and engine display make it easier to reach controls outside the truck.
- Remote panels: The Remote Panel Kit for Miller engine drives allows weld terminals/power receptacles to be mounted wherever is convenient. This provides an added layer of convenience and safety. Operators can access controls and plug in electric tools and lights from the ground without climbing on the truck.
IMPROVE PRODUCTIVITY
Unplanned downtime on a jobsite can lead to major delays and lost revenue potential. These operations often know exactly how much money downtime costs them—down to the minute. When broken equipment or emergencies cause unplanned downtime on these jobsites, they want welders or technicians who can respond quickly.
Heavy weld mobile MRO trucks must minimize the time it takes for technicians 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 helps save time. Wireless Interface Control provides control of the machine in the operator’s hand, including turning the air compressor on and off. ArcReach technology is another option for engine drives that allows welders to adjust parameters from the feeder or remote.
- Wire welding options: While stick welding and gouging are commonly used on jobsites, wire welding processes are also used. Engine drives compatible with different wire feeder options provide flexibility to do many kinds of welding 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 helps operators set up and get jobs done faster. Some welder/generators offer features that improve control of the arc for smoother, more consistent results, minimizing downtime for rework.
RELIABILITY
An MRO or welding repair job already involves unplanned downtime. Therefore downtime due to an unreliable engine-driven welder/generator is the last thing an operator wants. Machine reliability is critical for quick jobs and happy customers. 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: Higher-quality machine with a 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 machines are designed 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.
OPTIMIZATION
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 truck with a versatile and robust engine drive that is 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.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jake Zwayer is the product manager of engine drives at Miller Electric Mfg. LLC. Find out more, visit www.millerwelds.com.
