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Don’t Breathe That In! The Welding Fume Problem and What You Can Do About It
This blog post addresses the serious health risks of welding fumes, now classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the IARC. It outlines the harmful components of welding fumes, current WorkSafe NZ exposure standards, and the importance of biological health monitoring for welders. The article also explains how engineering controls and PPE offer adequate protection, particularly the Optrel Swiss Air PAPR Multi Use Respiratory System & Clearmaxx Grinding Helmet Kit. Designed for New Zealand's industrial workforce, the post encourages welders, engineers, and workshop managers to adopt better safety practices and invest in advanced respiratory protection solutions.
Direct Drive or Belt Drive? Choosing the Right Air Compressor
This blog post compares two popular air compressors from Proline Industrial: the Remington RAS1500 1.5HP Direct Drive Silent Oil-less Compressor and the Remington RA4000BD 2.75HP Belt Drive Compressor. Aimed at welders, engineers, workshop operators, and business owners, the article explains key differences in compressor types, outlines performance factors like airflow, tank size, duty cycle, and noise, and helps readers match each model to specific job needs. It concludes with expert advice on selecting the right compressor for home, trade, or workshop use, ensuring efficient, reliable air power for any task.
End Fuel Contamination with Liquid Engineering Fuel Set
Diesel contamination, commonly known as the "diesel bug," can quietly damage fuel systems through microbial growth caused by water in fuel tanks. This blog explains how bacteria, fungi, and yeast thrive in diesel environments, leading to clogged filters, engine failure, and costly downtime. It compares traditional reactive treatments, such as biocides and tank cleaning, with a modern, preventative solution—Liquid Engineering Fuel Set. The product is highlighted as a safe, effective, and economical fuel conditioner that removes water, reconditions fuel, and prevents microbial contamination. Readers learn how Fuel Set improves fuel economy, extends engine life, and simplifies maintenance across various applications, from marine and agriculture to generators and transport fleets. The blog encourages workshop owners, engineers, and diesel operators to adopt a proactive approach to fuel system care, positioning Fuel Set as a first defence against diesel fuel degradation.
From MIG & TIG to Laser - The Next Step in Welding Innovation
This blog post introduces laser welding as a modern, efficient alternative to traditional MIG and TIG methods. It explains how laser welding works, its benefits—speed, precision, and minimal post-processing—and where it fits within various industries. The article covers key differences between welding methods, highlights operational and safety advantages, and uses the Strata SLR5000 as a practical example of how handheld laser welders are now accessible to New Zealand workshops. It aims to educate and guide business owners, engineers, and welders on how adopting laser technology can improve productivity and quality in metal fabrication.
The Hidden Danger in Welding Fumes and How the Optrel Swiss Air Protects You
This blog post explores the hidden risks of welding fumes and their profound health implications, including respiratory diseases and long-term exposure hazards such as lung cancer and neurological conditions. It compares traditional respiratory protection methods with modern Powered Air-Purifying Respirators (PAPRS), highlighting their limitations in real-world industrial environments. The post introduces the Optrel Swiss Air PAPR Multi-Use Respiratory System and Clearmaxx Grinding Helmet Kit as an advanced, practical solution for welders and engineers. Key features such as TH3 filtration, positive pressure breathing, beard-friendly design, and long battery life are discussed in depth. Real-world user feedback, regulatory compliance considerations, and cost-benefit insights are also presented to help professionals make informed safety decisions.
What Is an Inverter Generator? Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy

Electricity powers everything — from tools and welding machines to workshop lights and critical backup systems. For many businesses across New Zealand, especially those operating in remote areas or facing power disruptions, having reliable, portable electricity is not a luxury — it's essential. That's where inverter generators come in. Combining fuel efficiency, low noise, and stable power output, modern inverter generators have revolutionised how industries manage off-grid and backup energy needs.

The GT Power range, available from Proline Industrial and trusted by engineers, welders, and workshop owners throughout New Zealand, is at the forefront of this technology today. However, to understand how far these machines have come, it's worth looking back to where it all began with Honda's pioneering work in generator innovation.

A Brief History of Generator Innovation

In 1965, Honda released its first portable generator, the E300. Compact and convenient, it helped redefine what a generator could be — no longer significant, cumbersome, and noisy, but something a person could easily move and use in various settings.

However, as more people relied on electronic appliances and precise industrial equipment, they discovered the limitations of early generators. Conventional units produced alternating current (AC) based directly on engine speed. Any fluctuations in engine performance could result in unstable power, leading to flickering lights, surging tools, or even damage to sensitive electronics.

To solve this, Honda began refining generator technology through the 1980s and 1990s, eventually creating inverter generators. The first of these was the EX300, introduced in 1987. This model included an inverter circuit to help stabilise power output, although it produced a square wave, which still limited its compatibility with some devices.

Then came the EX500 in 1996. This unit featured a microprocessor-controlled sine wave inverter, enabling clean power indistinguishable from household mains electricity. For the first time, users could confidently power computers, communication equipment, and sensitive tools in the field—all with a compact, fuel-efficient machine.

What is an Inverter Generator?

In basic terms, an inverter generator works by:

  1. Producing high-frequency AC power through a specialised alternator.
  2. Converting this AC to direct current (DC).
  3. Inverting the DC back into a clean, stable AC output.

This process delivers a consistent sine wave — the gold standard of electrical output — free from voltage spikes or drops that could affect performance or damage electronics.

But the advantages of inverter generators go far beyond output quality:

  • Fuel Efficiency: Inverter generators use innovative throttle systems to adjust engine speed to match demand. Less load = less fuel used.
  • Quiet Operation: Slower engine speeds mean significantly lower noise levels — ideal for residential areas or jobs where peace and concentration matter.
  • Portability: Smaller, lighter designs make inverter generators easy to move and transport.
  • Safety Features: Built-in overload protection, low-oil shutoff, and digital displays improve user confidence and protect the machine.

These are the foundations upon which modern brands like GT Power have built their offerings — models explicitly designed for New Zealand's demanding conditions and professional needs.

Real-World Applications for Today's Professionals

Let's consider some typical situations faced by Proline Industrial’s customers:

  • A welding contractor must power their gear at a remote rural property.
  • A construction crew working in a residential suburb must keep noise minimal.
  • A business owner wants a reliable backup power solution during outages that won't damage electronic devices.
  • A workshop technician needs a stable voltage to run tools and charge battery-powered equipment without interruptions.

Older petrol generators are often too noisy, wasteful, or unstable. Inverter generators address each of these challenges head-on.

Introducing the GT Power GT4800Ei and GT4000ESi

Let's examine two examples from the GT Power range, available through Proline Industrial, and consider how they demonstrate the evolution of generator technology.

GT Power GT4800Ei – Power Meets Portability

The GT4800Ei delivers 4600w (5.8kva) of maximum power and 4200w continuous output. That's enough to run drills, grinders, saws, welders, or lighting systems, making it suitable for contractors, mobile workshops, or backup use in small businesses.

Key features include:

  • Electric start with recoil backup – Easy to get running in any condition.
  • Smart throttle – Automatically adjusts engine speed based on load, saving fuel.
  • Digital control panel – Simplifies engine management and output monitoring.
  • Twin 230v outlets + 2 USB ports – Power for tools and electronics.
  • Compact design (39.5kg) – Built for portability without compromising output

The GT4800Ei is ideal for those who need a robust workhorse that can be moved around a site and performs reliably under pressure.

GT Power GT4000ESi – Silence, Stability and Smart Control

The GT4000ESi is slightly smaller in capacity — 4000w (5kva) peak, 3500w continuous — but it's designed for a different purpose. This silenced inverter generator focuses on low-noise operation, remote starting, and extended runtime, making it ideal for residential use, emergency backup, or quieter work environments.

Its features include:

  • Electric start with Wi-Fi remote – Start from your smartphone or indoors.
  • Enclosed silenced casing – Operating noise as low as 65 db, quiet enough for close-quarters work.
  • Parallel ready – Link two units for up to 8000w of power.
  • Heavy-duty wheel kit and handle – Easy to transport between job sites.
  • 12l fuel tank – Up to 8 hours of runtime under load.

This model represents the culmination of everything Honda's early innovation sought to achieve: clean, safe, quiet power in a form that's convenient, reliable, and practical for real-world users.

While both models deliver clean, inverter-quality power, they differ significantly in form and function. The GT4800Ei features an open frame design, making it lighter, more accessible for maintenance, and better suited to outdoor job sites or mobile workshops where noise is less of a concern. Its exposed frame prioritises airflow and portability, making it ideal for tradies and small businesses needing a rugged, go-anywhere unit. In contrast, the GT4000ESi adopts a suitcase-style fully enclosed body, offering superior noise suppression and a sleeker appearance, ideal for residential use, events, or backup power in quiet zones. If you value silence, remote start, and long runtime, the GT4000ESi is a clear winner. But if your priority is maximum output in a compact, site-ready format, the GT4800Ei holds its own. Both serve different needs — the right choice is how and where you plan to use them.

Click HERE to watch the GT4000ESI in action.

Why Power Quality Matters

What does "clean power" really mean? It means your devices get:

  • Stable voltage (e.g. a steady 230v without fluctuations)
  • Consistent frequency (50Hz in NZ, without deviation)
  • Low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) – meaning minimal noise or interference in the electricity itself

With these conditions met, you can safely run:

  • Battery chargers for cordless tools
  • CNC or plasma-cutting machines
  • Computers and networking equipment
  • Lighting systems and communication gear

GT Power generators use modern inverter systems to achieve power quality equal to or better than mains electricity, making them a proper replacement in situations where grid access is limited.

Fuel Efficiency and Run Time: A Practical Advantage

Traditional generators run at fixed engine speeds (typically 3000 RPM). That means they consume the same amount of fuel regardless of whether you're using full power or just a few watts. Inverter generators, by contrast, use microprocessor-controlled throttle systems to match engine speed to demand. Less load? Lower revs. This means:

  • Less noise
  • Lower fuel use
  • Longer run time per tank

For example:

  • The GT4800Ei can run up to 11 hours at 50% load
  • The GT4000ESi provides 8+ hours at moderate load on a single 12l tank

This extended performance saves money and reduces the need to refuel during long shifts or outages.

Easy Operation and Safety Features

Both featured models include push-button electric start, with the GT4000ESi going one step further by including Wi-Fi remote start capability. This allows you to fire up the generator inside your workshop or vehicle without stepping outside—a helpful feature during storms, cold mornings, or late-night emergencies.

Other built-in features enhance safety and usability:

  • Overload protection – Prevents equipment damage if power draw exceeds limits
  • Low oil shutdown – Protects the engine if lubrication runs low
  • Smart digital displays – Show real-time operating data and alerts
  • USB ports – For powering low-voltage devices like phones and tablets

These details make a big difference in daily use, especially for those who depend on reliable performance to keep their work running smoothly.

Why Choose GT Power from Proline Industrial?

Beyond the hardware, purchasing through Proline Industrial means you get the following:

  • Pre-dispatch quality assurance – Every unit is tested, oiled, and ready to run on delivery
  • Dedicated nationwide service agents – Local support across New Zealand
  • Industry-leading warranty – 4 years domestic / 2 years commercial
  • 10-year spare parts guarantee – Long-term support for your investment

This translates into trust, peace of mind, and reduced downtime for busy professionals. You're not just buying a generator; you're buying into a support, service, and quality assurance system that keeps your business moving forward.

Inverter generators have come a long way—from Honda's original experiments with compact power units to the fully featured, efficient, and user-friendly machines available today. The GT4800Ei and GT4000ESi exemplify everything professionals now demand: stable power, quiet operation, fuel economy, and reliable performance. Whether you're welding on a remote site, keeping a workshop online during an outage, or powering tools at an event or farm, these generators are built to deliver.

Explore the full generator range at Proline Industrial and find the generator that matches your worksite, lifestyle, or backup power needs — because when it counts, you need power you can trust.

Master Aluminium Welding with the Ideal TIG Setup
Welding aluminium is essential across many industries but presents unique challenges due to its oxide layer, high thermal conductivity, and tendency toward porosity. Proper preparation, technique, and equipment choice are critical for success. The Strata AdvanceTig400ACDC offers the power, control, and reliability needed to overcome these challenges, with features like AC/DC output, advanced AC waveform selection, pulse welding up to 999Hz, and Smart Set Synergic controls. Built for demanding industrial use, it delivers superior performance on aluminium welding tasks, helping welders produce clean, strong welds with greater efficiency and confidence. With the proper knowledge, techniques, and the AdvancedTig400ACDC, aluminium welding becomes a manageable and rewarding process.
Why Spool Guns Make All the Difference for Aluminium MIG Welding
Aluminium MIG welding can be difficult due to the soft nature of aluminium wire and its tendency to be bird-nest in traditional MIG setups. A spool gun offers a practical solution by shortening the wire feed path and improving control. This article explains why spool guns are essential for aluminium welding and introduces the Strata SP240P 8M Spool Gun—a reliable, workshop-ready tool designed for compatibility with most inverter MIG welders. It covers setup instructions, key welding techniques, common troubleshooting tips, and why welders and engineers trust the SP240P to deliver consistent, high-quality results in industrial environments.
Workshop Heating Solutions: Direct-Fired vs Indirect-Fired Diesel Heaters
This blog post compares direct-fired and indirect-fired diesel heaters, focusing on how each system operates, their advantages and limitations, and where they are best applied. It highlights the importance of choosing the right heater based on ventilation, occupancy, and heating requirements. Real-world examples – the Master 29 kW Direct Heater and Master 85 kW Indirect Heater – illustrate performance and suitability across various industrial environments. The article is designed to support engineers, workshop operators, and business owners in selecting safe, efficient heating solutions for their specific applications.
Essential Diesel Heater Maintenance Tips for Winter
Diesel heaters, such as the Remington RPH75R Kerosene/Diesel Heater, play a crucial role in industrial and workshop environments by providing reliable heating solutions. However, regular maintenance is essential to prevent fuel waxing, blockages, and efficiency loss. This guide covers key maintenance steps, recommended service schedules, and fuel-blending techniques for cold weather. It also highlights best storage practices, safety considerations, and troubleshooting common heater issues. By following these guidelines, users can ensure their diesel heaters remain efficient, safe, and operational for extended periods. For expert servicing and parts, visit Proline Industrial today.