Patent ID: 8803031
Filing Date: 2014-08-12
Classification: B23K

Abstract:
1. A system for welding, comprising: a welding power supply having different power sources operable to deliver electrical power for establishing a welding arc; a wire feeder including a wire feeder motor for continuously feeding an electrode; the wire feeder having a power input cable comprising a first input for connecting the welding power supply to a first power source and a second input for connecting a second substantially different power supply to a second power source, wherein the first welding power source and the second substantially different power source are both physically connected to the wire feeder during a welding operation; a sensing circuit between the wire feeder and the power supply configured to detect a presence or an absence of the second substantially different power source connected to the second input, and wherein said sensing circuit further comprises a logic processor having an input and at least a first output for automatically controlling power for driving the wire feeder motor from between the welding arc and a separate regulated power supply; at least a first switch for selectively establishing an electrical connection between the separate regulated power supply and the wire feeder motor; and, wherein the at least a first switch is activated responsive to the at least a first output of the logic processor; and, a controller operable to switch power for operating the wire feeder motor from the first welding power source to the second substantially different power source in response to the sensing circuit detecting the presence of the second substantially different power source, wherein the first welding power source and the second substantially different power source are each independently operable to power the wire feed motor for continuously feeding the electrode.