MIG/TIG Welding EMI Source -- Medical device

[sargent11235]

Hello All,
Have a question that I was curious about. I have a medical device and am able to weld on lower currents (below 180 amps) without any problems. I noticed that the manual for my welder said for people sensitive to EMI to stay away from the power source. What is the power source? In an MIG/TIG welder is most of the EMI coming from the arc itself (i.e. where we're melting metal) or the machine?

Thanks

[Louie1961]

At least for DC welding I bet an inverter creates more EMI than the arc due to the frequencies used in the switching circuits. I run a ham radio here pretty frequently and I get most of my interference from my daughters' LED light strings hanging in their bedrooms

[CAVEMANN]

I know a guy that was told not to weld after recieving a pacemaker, I don't know if this helps with your question. but that's what I know.

[G-ManBart]

From a literal perspective, the power source should be either the transformer or inverter in the welder. The torch/stinger/etc is where the power is applied, not the source. If they were considering the source to be the torch there is no way to stay away from it. On the flip side, with a longer torch setup you can stay away from the power source and still weld.

[Steve_12]

A welder with an implanted pacemaker must use special insulating gloves, not work in a humid environment, and avoid working with currents exceeding 400 A. The ground terminal should be attached to the welding electrode as close to the welding spot as possible.