WORKING HOURS: 43.5 Hours per Week, Monday to Thursday (0800 to 1730) Friday (0800 to 1600) + 30 minutes paid lunch

SALARY: c£25000

HOLIDAY: 20 paid days per year + bank holidays (Some leave mandatory to cover period business is closed between Christmas and New Year)

JOB OVERVIEW

Office based Rental Co-ordinator required for our busy, expanding company.  Based in our Hedge End, Southampton office, the focus will be;

•              To assist in the day-to-day business of the Company, by running the hire desk

•              Raising rental contracts

•              Deal with customer enquiries

•              Organise deliveries and collections

•              Stock control

•              General additional support for your colleagues – this is important as you will be part of a small team

IDEAL CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS

•              Previous work within a rental company would be useful but not essential as training will be provided

•              Some knowledge of welding equipment would be useful but not essential as training will be provided

•              IT literate including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel).

•              Customer focussed team player

•              In possession of a positive can-do attitude

•              Calm under pressure – strict deadlines to be met.

•              Attention to detail & accuracy essential.

•              Excellent communicator across all colleague levels.

•              The role will be fast-paced and challenging therefore you must have an adaptable and flexible attitude and approach, be prepared to work alongside your team and be driven to achieve a high level of service.

•              Discretion – as this role includes access to sensitive business and personal information, a high level of integrity and confidentiality is essential.

HOW TO APPLY

To be considered for this job vacancy, please submit your CV to vacancies@rapidwelding.com

Rapid are proud to have been awarded ISO 9001 certification for the fifth consecutive year. This award is an internationally recognised standard which specifies requirements for a quality management system.

Here at Rapid, we have demonstrated our ability to consistently provide products and services that meet our customer’s needs. This accreditation demonstrates our commitment to our stakeholders, providing the highest standards and continually improving our processes to ensure we are exceeding expectations.

Within the last 12 months we have had over 7 days of auditing across all three sites by a UKAS-accredited ISO 9001 certification body. We are delighted to inform everyone that no non-conformances were raised during this period.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank NPT management systems, who have assisted and supported us through this process.

Click here to view a PDF copy of our certificate or for any more information on how we can help you, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Shaun joined the Rapid family in 2015 as a fundamental member of the sales team. Previous to joining the Rapid team, Shaun spent 4 years in the Royal Navy before taking up his role here at Rapid as a Regional Sales Manager. Shaun provides customers with the products they require along with ongoing support and expert advice. Whilst out on the road, visiting customers he enjoys seeing the variety of products being produced.

When not immersed in the world of welding Shaun enjoys spending time with his family and has a keen interest in running and is a member of his local running club.

 Anyone interested in TIG welding would have heard of CK Worldwide and their contribution to TIG welding, for over 50 years they have produced the highest quality TIG torches and accessories in the industry. As the sole official distributor for CK Worldwide in the UK we are continuously asked how to connect a CK torches to different brands and models of TIG machines.

All the CK TIG torches we sell at Rapid, come standard with a 3/8 BSP cable, which allows for connection to the machines. In most cases, this will require an adaptor, and the adaptor required will depend on the make and model of the TIG machine the torch is going to be connected to.

Lincoln, Kemppi and Fronius have their own adaptors which can use to connect the torches their machines.

Some examples with our most popular TIG machines: 

Fronius TransTig/ MagicWave

Air cooled gas thru connector: Click Here 

Water cooled connector: Click Here 

Lincoln Electric

Connector: Click Here 

Kemppi MasterTig 

Connector: Click Here

For the majority of other machines, we have two different connectors from CK which are most commonly used, the adaptor required will depend on the size of the dinse power connection on your machine. There are two options available either 35mm or 25mm, the correct size can be determined by measuring the dinse output on your machine or consulting the manual. The same adaptor is required for either gas cooled or water-cooled machines.

Safe-Loc Dinse Power Adaptor for water Cooled and air cooled machines

The new MasterTig, available from Rapid soon, sets new records for weld quality, usability and power efficiency. Designed with the professional welder in mind, this new range of machines offer a choice of power variants in 230A and 300A with 400A and 500A models following in 2020.

The modular design of these models allow you to build a machine to your required specifications. These features include alternative control panels, wireless remote controls and various transport cart options. 

With a stylish, practical and robust design the MasterTig can absorb knocks and everyday welding life. The MasterTig is the ideal component for workshop and site use, constructed from tough injection moulded plastic, featuring impact bridge protection structures.

Key Features

60% Faster Setup – Weld assist guides you towards the optimal setup. Tell the machines what you intend to weld, and it sets the correct parameters for easy and productive welding.

30% Increased Welding Speed – Double pulse function accelerates travel speed in DC applications and lowers heat input by 20%. Faster welding and lower material distortion.

20% Lower Noise Levels – MasterTig reduces noise levels compared to leading competitors in ACDC welding applications, allowing you to quietly concentrate on quality.

Enhanced Welding Features

Experience fast and accurate welding thanks to MicroTack. A revolutionised feature designed for multiple and repetitive tacking on thin sheet applications.

The iTec features is an engineered ignition technology tool designed for a reliable arc start that is useful for large torch extensions.

A weld time clock features enable workers to establish weld cycle measurements and job data records.

 Product Brochure: Click Here

You can’t have a new machine without a Tig torch to go with it . . .

FLEXLiTE

Kemppi presents the latest in their Tig torch range; the Flexlite TX series. These Tig torches are designed for the best reliable welding performances with a focus on the process of everyday welding. All Flexlite TX products feature tremendous technical performances lifespans and there is plenty of different sizes and types to choose from to fit your welding needs. Flexlite TX welding torches provide excellent user comfort and lowers the chance of welder fatigue. A firm grip is made from silicone rubber and the torches’ innovative design reduced time in wrist loading, allowing more time to concentre on welding tasks.

Product Brochure: Click Here

 For more information on these machines or torches please contact our sales team: sales@rapidwelding.com or on +44 (0)23 92 214 214.

 Recently a MasterTig ACDC 3500 machine was recently spotted by one of our reps in a workshop during a site visit, the customer had written the machine off thinking it wasn’t worth being repaired due to its age. The MasterTig was bought in 2000 and used sporadically until about a year ago when a fault emerged, and it was no longer used.

After a quick assessment from our Service Department it turns out the water cooler needed repairing. With a service, repair on the water cooler and a very good clean carried out by our Service Manager, James the machine has been returned to the customer to be used for many more years to come.

If you have any welding equipment or machines which require some attention, don’t hesitate to contact our Service Department for an assessment. 

Why choose Rapid’s Service Department?

• We are ISO9001 registered, so you’re assured of a quality service.

• We employ 5 full time service personnel, over 3 sites, and hold a large stock of repair parts for a quick turnaround of your machines. 

• All our engineers are fully factory trained by major suppliers, meaning we’re a fully approved warranty and repair centre for all our brands. Your machines are repaired by competent trained engineers, saving time and money.

•All our test equipment is in calibration back to national standards. This means you can be sure our testing is accurate. Calibration certificates for our test equipment are easily available online.

•We have a fully equipped machine workshop, allowing fabrication of parts for older or obscure machines. This means we can work on machines where parts are no longer available, extending the lifetime of your machine fleet. 

• Machine asset list, with historical service / repair information and costs available on our customer portal (machines we have validated or worked on). Let’s you easily see which machines are costing you most money on repairs.

• Machine Inspection and Validation Certificates and Product Test Certificates are available any time online, with easy access for you.

For more information or to contact Rapid’s Service Department please email servicedept@rapidwelding.com or call 01489 779324. 

Ken is the newest member of the Rapid team and has joined us as product manager for industrial safety. With over 40 years’ experience in the engineering sector, including 10 years as a welder, he has an extensive background in the field. Ken is the go-to man for industrial safety related products including fume extraction and our new range of Cepro products.

Ken will be available for site visits to conduct, analyse and advise on the appropriate safety measures needed in your working environment.

The welder is protected with a welding mask and protective clothing, but have you considered the bystanders who are also exposed to hazards created by the welding process? It is important to protect bystanders too as unprotected exposure to welding can cause illnesses like conjunctivitis, arc eye, cataract and skin burns.

When creating a designated welding area or bay, it’s important to consider all involved. The designated area does not want to be isolated from other work areas so its important to have a transparent material, this is also important in case of emergencies and situations which require a fast reaction; therefore, the majority of solutions are made from PVC material. However, canvas products are also widely available.

When buying a welding curtain, strips or a screen it’s important to consider all the options available to ensure you get the right solution for you.

Curtain, Strips or a Screen?

Welding strips and curtains offer the same visual protection. The choice between the two options is based on mechanical load, when the mechanical load is heavy, strips are recommended.

A curtain is usually one sheet which is mounted at the top on a frame with curtain rings securing the curtain. Curtains come in different sizes and can be made to measure if required. Its important to consider whether your curtain is supplied with eyelets for ease of hanging.

Strips are made from the same material as a curtain, however, are hung separately, in strips with an overlap. When purchased, strips come in a roll, so its important to have accurate measurements of area designated and the ability to hang them.

Welding screens are mounted in a metal frame with a curtain hung in the middle, usually fastened on all four sides. These are supplied on wheels so they can easily be manoeuvred around a workshop when there are variations of the welding position of a large job.

Why do they come in different colours? What’s the difference?

The colour of the welding curtain makes little difference to its performance; However, the translucency of the colour is an important area for consideration. Some curtains will allow enough light to get into the welding bay, so you are able to see an outline from outside the bay. This will allow passers-by to see if someone is working inside. Canvas curtains and some darker PVC coloured options do not let any light into the bay, therefore only when someone is welding can you see there is someone working.

Other things to consider

•         Certification: ISO EN 25980, this standard ensures that companies all round the world can be assured they implement high quality and safe products in their workspace. Ensure the products you select adhere to this.

•         Quality: Ensure the product you buy is resistant to abrasion, tearing and weld spatter. Some curtains are self-extinguishing and can therefore also withstand welding sparks.

•         Sizes: Ensure you know the size of the curtain you require. If you are going to use strips, consider the length of the roll and how much overlap you require.

•         Access to the welding area: ensure you have the ability to create an opening where required.

Here at Rapid we supply a wide range of solutions to meet every requirement. All curtains, strips and screens are quality assured and comply with ISO EN 25980. They are available to shop online, click here.

If you require any further advise or have any questions don’t hesitate to contact our sales team: sales@rapidwelding.com or on +44 (0)23 92 214 214.

The new Optrel Crystal 2.0 is now available from Rapid as a complete air fed package. 

What could you achieve with a practically unclouded and clear view of your working environment?

The new Crystal 2.0 sets a new record with an incredibly low shade 2 light state. This new development reduces the need for a flip up visor. This, in combination with the almost perfect colour spectrum, helps the welder to have a clear view of their working environment. With a clearer view of the job in hand, this helmet has the ability to improve the weld and assist the welder in perfecting a given task.  

Do you know what shade level you should be working at for different welding processes and jobs? The auto pilot feature automatically adjusts the dark shade depending on what you are welding, this eliminates the need to manually change settings for different jobs.

Key Features

Crystal Lens Technology 2.0 - See clearly what happens before, during and after the welding process.
Autopilot Shade Level 4 to 12 - Your welding helmet automatically adapts to changing light conditions.
Twilight Function - You can always remain relaxed, even in case of fast lighting changes.
Sensitivity Control - Adapts the helmet to your environment and requirements.
Grind Mode - The brightest vision during grinding work ever to be offered by a welding helmet.
Heat-Reflecting Paint - Helping you keep a cool head at all times.

" The difference between other welding helmets and the Crystal 2.0 is like the difference between watching black and white TV and colour TV " 
 Review from a very happy welder and owner of the new Crystal 2.0

The e3000 PAPR system

The e3000 PAPR system compliments the Optrel Crystal, providing the best protection in terms of safety, health and comfort. Safety regulations state that air flow on a PAPR systems must be checked before every use, the e3000 automatically checks this when the system it turned on, unlike other options which require a manual air flow check.

Highest safety class (TH3)
Protects reliably from smoke, aerosols and dust
Integrated, automatic air flow control
Mountain breeze odour filter, increasing comfort
Improved working conditions for greater efficiency, comfort and better performance

For more information on this helmet or any others, don’t hesitate to contact us. 

 Optrel Crystal 2.0 and E3000 10 hour PAPR System

 Optrel Crystal 2.0 and E3000 20 hour PAPR System

Optrel Crystal - Helmet Only (not for PAPR)

Watch, Ken's overview of the Optrel Crystal 2.0 PAPR System

Change in Enforcement for Mild Steel Welding Fume

The HSE (Health and Safety Executive) have released a new Safety Alert announcing a change in enforcement expectations for mild steel welding fumes. This comes following new scientific evidence suggesting exposure to all welding fumes, including mild steel welding fumes, can cause lung cancer and possibly kidney cancer in humans.

The Alert states that all businesses undertaking welding activities should provide effective and correctly used engineering controls to prevent exposure to fumes arising from welding activities. Where engineering controls are not adequate, appropriate Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is required to control the risk from the residual fume.

As a result of this new evidence the following action is required!

• Make sure exposure to any welding fumes is adequately controlled using engineering controls (typically LEV).
• Make sure suitable controls are provided for all welding activities, irrelevant of duration. This includes welding outdoors.
• Where engineering controls alone cannot control exposure, adequate and suitable RPE should be provided to control risk from any residual fume.
• Make sure all engineering controls are correctly used, suitably maintained and subject to thorough examination and testing where required.
• Make sure any RPE is subject to an RPE programme. An RPE programme encapsulates all the elements of RPE you need.
• Ensure your RPE is effective in protecting the wearer.

More information on this Safety Alert can be found on the HSE official notice:

HSE-Changes-Mild-Steel-Welding-Fume 

Fume Extraction Solutions

Engineered/ Stationary Extraction Solutions

Engineered solutions or multiple arm systems can extract fumes from a row of welding booths. Combined with fans, control equipment and filters, they are the ultimate solution. Custom-made for workshop requirements, the advantage is that each arm can be independently positioned so it's located close to the source of the welding fumes, while multiple arm systems can be controlled automatically helping reduce energy consumption, resulting in faster recovery of investment costs.

For example, a state-of-the-art Plymovent system will automatically monitor and adjust the air volume required, depending on how many workplaces are being used at any given time. The controls in the system will adjust to the pressure drop in mechanical filters and maintain the air volume performance at each fume extractor. This type of system will also make a contribution to improving the global environment.

For more Information on Plymovent Engineered Solutions, visit: Plymovent Direct 

Mobile Extraction Units

Mobile extraction units are usually on wheels or light and compact enough to carry. They can be moved around the workshop to the source of welding fumes, providing increased flexibility to the user. The air is sucked up through the hood, then down the arm where it gets filtered and released back into the surrounding air.

Different mobile extraction units are available, however the model required will depend on the amount of welding being carried out and the process being used. Our team are here to advise you which system will be most suitable for your needs.

Visit: Mobile Extraction Units

Fume Torches

Torch fume extraction captures welding fumes directly at the point of generation. Fumes are extracted by openings in the nozzle at the top of the torch, which are then carried through the hose into the collector unit. To treat the fumes and for maximum efficiency, the torch should be connected to a high vacuum system which collects and filters the fume, returning clean air back into the workshop.

Visit: Fume Torches  

Extraction Tables 

Extraction tables are a combination of welding bench and filtration system, suitable for applications such as welding, grinding and plasma cutting. The tables can be placed anywhere in a workshop including inside a welding booth, thus removing fumes and dust directly from the breathing zone of the welder. 

View: Extraction Tables

 Air Fed Welding Helmets

Also known as a form of RPE (Respiratory protective equipment), Air Fed Welding Helmets are known to provide the best all-round protection for welders and should be used as the front line of defence against harmful fumes. The system is configured to allow the PAPR unit to take in the ambient air, passing it through a filter to remove a sufficient amount of hazardous materials before feeding it into the helmet to ensure the welder has clean air to breathe.

The PAPR unit is connected to the helmet and worn by the welder, either as a belt of a harness. This allows the welder to move to various locations without worrying about moving the system around. 

Safety regulations state that the air flow of a helmet must be checked before every PAPR use. Optrel helmets fitted with the e3000 PAPR system automatically check the air flow at start up, effectively decreasing start up time compared to helmets requiring manual air flow checks.

Important things to consider when buying an air fed helmet:

• Has the helmet been officially approved by the relevant authorities to meet specific standards?
• Are replacement cartridges and filters easily available to you, ensuring they can be easily changed when required?
• Does your Air Fed Helmet fit? – The correct fit is extremely important.
• Movement - Does the respirator provide enough freedom of movement; how noisy will it be?

View: Air Fed Helmets

More information can be found online at the HSE.

If you're not sure what method of fume extraction meets your requirements, don’t hesitate to contact our sales team: sales@rapidwelding.com or on +44 (0)23 92 214 214.