What other equipment do I need?

[newtrikebuilder]

I want to buy a welder so that I can learn to weld, and if it goes well then build a chassis for a small car next year. It looks like a Clarke 151TE is the best machine, but what other equipment do I need?

I already have some safety boots and a fire extinguisher. I will get gloves and a leather jacket. What about my legs, is there anything that will cover these? I may be doing some welding on the floor so, so my legs may be fairly close. I only have two windows and was planning to put a welding blanket over these.

I will start with the hand shield, but get a better helmet when I have some experience. I will also get some clamps, wire brushes, and welding pliers.

Should I get some tip paste and release spray?

I will also need to sort out the electrics. I'll probably add a 16A socket for it.

Have I missed anything?

Also how far can the sparks fly to damage things? I don't want burns on my (new) garage door or my cupboards in the garage. They will be about 1-2m from the work, can sparks do damage from this distance? Would I need to put screens up to protect everything?

 

[shenion]

An auto-darkening helmet makes it much easier.

A set of leather gauntlet-style gloves.

I have tip dip but rarely use it unless I'm doing a lot of spot welds or overhead.

 

[Hitch]

I would get a decent headshield to start with, learning will be much easier.
Legs... just wear some jeans if your not getting overalls.
Tools, sidecutters are as good as special welding pliers.

Sparks, they will travel some distance , depending on technique. The dust/sparks from grinding does as much damage.

Windows, a bit of hardboard would do.


Clamps, you can never have enough.

 

[pedrobedro]

A hammer

 

[Andy from Workshopshed]

If you are learning, I would also recommend the investment in a self darkening mask.

I also got some "welding" overalls from the local industrial clothing shop for just £25.