A power source which converts mechanical energy into electrical power suitable for arc welding. The source of mechanical power is usually an induction motor-driven welding generator available for 200, 240, 480, and 600 V, three-phase, 60 Hz input. The motors of welding generators usually have a good power factor (80 to 90%) when under load. This type of power source can be used with shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) and submerged arc welding (SAW).