Automatic vs. Manual Welding: Which is best for your project?

You’ve selected hot air welding as your joining method, now it’s time to pick which machine is best for the job. Broadly, there are two types of hot air welding tools: automatic and manual. Automatic tools can be further broken down into moving and stationary.

Automatic Tools 
Automatic tools are best suited for large projects with straight seams. They enable the operator to work quickly (up to 18 m/min. depending on tool and conditions), and produce an extremely attractive and reliable weld. Once the correct temperature and speed parameters are found, automatic welding removes much of the chance for human error resulting in a more consistent weld; this is especially important when welding tents or tarps which must be absolutely waterproof. 

There are two main types of automatic tools—moving and stationary—below are some advantages and disadvantages for each.

Moving Automatic Tools 
Advantages 

• Less operator risk – fewer pinch points
• Better suited for long welds or large pieces of material

Disadvantages 

• Requires a workspace dedicated to welding the same size as the material
• Requires a flat surface under the material, otherwise welds may be inconsistent

Stationary Automatic Tools 
Advantages 

• Require less space dedicated to welding as material can be bunched before and after seaming
• No weld surface requirements

Disadvantages 

• Large pieces of material can be difficult for operator to manoeuvre

Manual Tools 
Manual tools, also called hand tools, are ideal for short, curvy, or intricate welding projects. They are excellent for beginners, proof-of-concept projects, and low production applications because of their relatively low cost compared to automatic welders. Manual tools rely more on operator skill than automatic tools. The operator controls the speed of the tool and must simultaneously follow the nozzle with a pressure roller to compress the two layers of material together (the pressure is necessary to achieve a solid weld).

Manual Tools 
Advantages 

• Greater portability
• Greater manoeuvrability
• Lower cost

Disadvantages 

• Slower welding speed
• Greater reliance on skill of operators

Automatic Tools 
Advantages 

• Faster welding speed
• Straighter seams
• Less risk of user error
• More consistent weld

Disadvantages 

• Unable to weld details
• Higher cost

Want more information or help choosing a tool? Give us a call.