ForConstructionPros.com

Don Knight

Seven years ago, Lyle Proctor started DDJ Welding, Enumclaw, WA, a firm specializing in welded steel pipelines for the water industry, including hydroelectric dams, local water lines for utilities, pen stocks and power houses. In addition to himself, Proctor regularly employs four or five other welders, equipping them with completely outfitted work trucks. Some years, however, demand increases to the point where as many as 15 welders are needed.

DDJ Welding has Miller Electric Trailblazer 275 DC gas engine-driven welders on two of its trucks. With a peak generator output of 10,500 watts and a welding output of up to 325 amps (300 amps at 100% duty cycle), the units can weld with larger diameter electrodes and gouge with larger carbons (up to 1/4 in.).

"We run a lot of 5/64-in.-diameter E71T8-K6 self-shielded flux cored wire," says Proctor. "On larger diameter pipe, from 48 to 96 in., we will have an arc-on time of 15 to 20 minutes as we weld from the top down to the bottom of the pipe. Our Trailblazer 275, with its 100% duty cycle output, handles those long welds without a problem."

The gas engine drives have proven cost effective. In addition to their lower purchase price, they are significantly lighter than diesel engine drives. This enables Proctor to run 1-ton trucks instead of 1 1/2-ton units. His new Dodge 3500 chassis with 9.5-ft. flatbed cost him about $15,000 less than his older, heavier vehicle.

The lower gross vehicle weight enables Proctor to spec the trucks with a quad cab option. "Since we're on the road all the time, the large cab comes in handy for carrying extra gear," he says. "The 1-ton trucks ride a little smoother, too, which is nice for our guys."