Pennsylvania Welding Supply’s history is a tribute to the hard work and determination of Robert V. Thornton Sr.  He began his career in this business in the late 1930’s as a welder at the Todd-Bath Iron Shipbuilding Corp. in Portland, ME.  Upon Joining the Navy he was assigned Underwater Welding & Cutting because of his welding background.  He went on to serve in Australia and the Philippines repairing submarines during WWII where he achieved the rank of Chief Metalsmith. 

Following his honorable discharge, he took a sales job with Metal & Thermit Corporation, later known as Murex.  He then moved to the position of Sales Manager for Jersey Welding Supply in Plainfield, NJ.  In 1962, he began his purchase of Pennsylvania Welding Supply which was near bankruptcy at the time.  His hard work and long hours brought the company back to being a prominent player in the Philadelphia market in the late 60’s and early 70’s.  At this time he was also joined by his sons, Bob Jr. in 1970, and Dave in 1974.   

In 1975, he began a series of acquisitions in New Jersey that has become South Jersey Welding Supply, which currently has 3 locations in Vineland, Pleasantville, and Maple Shade. 

In 1981, he formed Automated Arc Systems to sell automated welding equipment.  Today this division of Pennsylvania Welding Supply represents a full line of automated welding products, including orbital welding systems from Arc Machines, hard automation systems from Pandjiris, pipe and tube preparation tools from Orbitalum, and robotic systems from Lincoln Electric’s Automation Division. 

Pennsylvania Welding Supply has continued into its third generation serving the Philadelphia and Southeastern Pennsylvania market with the highest quality products and service from our location at 242 E. Hunting Park Ave Philadelphia, PA.  Our success is a result of the dedication and outstanding customer service provided by our valued employees, that has been passed down to us by Robert Thornton, Sr.