To perform argon arc welding, special welding machines are used, which combine structural elements of electric arc and gas welding devices. The essence of this technology, which is actively used for welding parts made of alloy steels, aluminum and other metals, is that the melting of the edges of the joined products and filler wire is ensured by the combustion of the welding arc, and the entire process takes place in a protective gas environment, in which is used as argon. To perform argon arc welding, two types of electrodes can be used - consumable and non-consumable, made from refractory tungsten.
Multifunctional welding station for industrial use
Rating of the TOP 15 best argon arc welding machines (TIG) 2020-2021
Place | Name | Price |
TOP 5 best argon arc welding machines (TIG) by price/quality for 2022 | ||
1 | Svarog REAL SMART ARC 200 (Z28303) BLACK (TIG, MMA) | Find out the price |
2 | FoxWeld InverMIG 205 (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA) | Find out the price |
3 | Aurora Dynamics 200 (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA) | Find out the price |
4 | Fubag IRMIG 160 SYN (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA) | Find out the price |
5 | Aurora SPEEDWAY 180 (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA) | Find out the price |
TOP 5 best inexpensive argon arc welding machines (TIG) | ||
1 | Svarog REAL SMART ARC 200 | Find out the price |
2 | ELITECH AIS 200D | Find out the price |
3 | Quattro Elementi B 205 | Find out the price |
4 | Aurora STICKMATE 205 | Find out the price |
5 | Wester TIG 220 | Find out the price |
TOP 5 best inverter welding machines (TIG) | ||
1 | FoxWeld InverMig 185 | Find out the price |
2 | RESANTA SAIPA-190MF | Find out the price |
3 | Aurora INTER TIG 200 AC/DC Pulse | Find out the price |
4 | ELITECH AIS 220D | Find out the price |
5 | RESANTA SAI-250AD AC/DC | Find out the price |
How to choose a argon arc welding machine (TIG)?
When purchasing, pay special attention to the following parameters:
- Weight and dimensions . This is relevant if you regularly need to transport the device.
- Type of metal and welding current . To work with steel and other durable metals, devices operating with direct current are required. For non-ferrous metals, aluminum, for example, alternating current is required.
- Current range . Indicates the available thickness of material that can be worked with. It is better to choose devices with a range from 10 to 200-250 A, this will make your purchase universal.
- Duration of switching on . This parameter indicates the operating time at maximum power.
How to choose the equipment needed for work
Equipment for argon arc welding must be selected based on the upcoming tasks and their volumes. Otherwise, you can buy a unit that is too weak, or, on the contrary, overpay for the potential that will remain unused. First, let's talk about choosing a current source.
How to choose a welding machine for TIG welding
An argon welding machine is an inverter connected to a 220 or 380 V network, which converts the current from alternating to direct several times, while increasing its frequency. Several transformers, diode bridges and a board with keys are used inside. All this contributes to the low weight of 4-30 kg and high quality seams.
If you need a machine for welding in the garage, then choose a 220 V model. For production, 380 V is optimal. The weight of 4-8 kg is useful for field activities and work at height, as well as with three-dimensional structures. For stationary use, weight does not matter. Please pay attention to the following parameters and equipment capabilities when choosing an inverter for argon welding.
Argon welding machine and equipment required.
Type of metal and welding current
At the output, the inverter produces direct current. This allows excellent welding of ferrous steels, stainless steel, cast iron, copper and even titanium alloys.
If your workshop only works with these metals, then choose any argon apparatus with a DC value.
But it will not be possible to combine aluminum and its alloys with such a device. The difficulty is the oxide film, which has a melting point of over 2000 degrees, although the metal itself becomes fluid after 660 degrees. To weld aluminum, you need a universal AC/DC inverter that can switch to alternating current. Thanks to this, the oxide on the surface is easily destroyed, and the base metal is not burned through by the high temperature of the arc.
If you have a service station or work related to aluminum containers, then look for an argon device with the designation AC/DC.
D.C | Alternating current |
Various types of steels | Aluminum |
Stainless steel | Magnesium alloys |
Cast iron | — |
Copper | — |
Titanium alloys | — |
Welding current range
The thickness of the workpieces you can work with depends on the current range (A). Both the upper and lower indicators are important here. The average calculated value is 35 A for every 1 mm of metal thickness. For example, if you are welding pipes and profiles whose wall cross-section does not exceed 2 mm, then 70 A will be sufficient. An argon apparatus with a maximum rating of 160 A will cover any needs for welding workpieces with a thickness of up to 4 mm. When you need to connect 5-7 mm workpieces using argon welding, choose an inverter with a maximum of 200-250 A.
The minimum value to which the current can be lowered affects the ability to weld thin metal. For example, there are argon devices with a lower threshold of 5 A. This is enough to weld tin with a cross-section of 0.6 mm. Models with a lower indicator of 20-30 A are not capable of this.
Type of metal | Metal thickness, mm | Type of current | Current strength¸ A |
Steel alloys | 1,0 | DC | 20-40 |
1,5 | DC | 40-70 | |
4,5 | DC | 120-140 | |
Aluminum | 1-2 | A.C. | 20-60 |
4-6 | A.C. | 120-180 | |
6-10 | A.C. | 220-230 | |
11-15 | A.C. | 280-360 |
Pulse mode
Choosing an argon machine with this function is necessary for even better welding of thin metals. Pulse mode involves alternating welding current and pause. This allows you to reduce heat input and completely eliminate deformation and warping of the part. The pulse change frequency can be adjusted, which determines the welding speed. This mode is also in demand when joining aluminum, since high current destroys the oxide, and lowering the power during a pause prevents burning through the base metal.
Intensity of use (duration of switching on)
In another way, this parameter is called the on-time duration and is indicated as a percentage. For example, with a duty cycle of 40%, an argon apparatus will work for 4 minutes out of ten. If you use it more often, it will overheat and the protection will work. The equipment will be forced to shut down until it cools down completely. When there are a lot of preparatory processes in the work, cleaning, cutting of workpieces, then a PV indicator of 40% is sufficient. The inverter will have time to cool down during such pauses. If the welder works constantly, and all the preparatory processes are carried out by others, then a more productive machine with a duty cycle of 80 or 100% is needed. Then the work will not be idle.
But the on-time is measured at the maximum current, so for a 300 A model with a duty cycle of 60%, when the welding current is reduced to 200 A, the duty cycle will be 100%. So when determining the intensity of use, it is also worth considering what operating current is needed for everyday tasks.
Additional functions
Tig welding machines can be equipped with some functions that facilitate the process or improve the quality of the seam. Of course, the wider the capabilities of the equipment, the more expensive it is, so it is worth considering how necessary each function is in a particular case.
Here are the most common:
- Gas purging time. The device allows you to adjust the time of pre- and post-purging with argon. At the beginning of the process, this helps remove ambient air from the arcing area. In the end, this promotes crystallization of the weld pool and cooling of the electrode. The longer a metal, such as aluminum, cools, the longer the blowing should be (up to 7 s).
- High frequency ignition. Any inverter can be equipped with a valve torch so that it can perform TIG welding. But to initiate an arc, you will need to touch the tip of the electrode to the product to which the ground is connected. Models with high-frequency ignition use an oscillator that penetrates a distance of up to 10 mm through the air with voltage. This helps you start welding without touching it by simply moving the torch. Fewer marks remain on the surface of the product, and the electrode has to be sharpened less often.
- Crater filling. This is a gradual decrease in the amplitude of the welding current, which helps eliminate the point at the “lock” of the seam. This function is important when welding pipes and containers for water and other liquids, as well as when working with thin sheets of 0.6-1.0 mm.
- Water cooling. In machines for argon welding, a pump can be installed that pumps antifreeze through a cable channel into the torch. This promotes accelerated heat removal from the ceramic nozzle and electrode, extending the time of continuous operation. The function is necessary where high currents of 250-400 A are used and long-term operation of the equipment is required.
Additional equipment required for operation
For argon arc welding, in addition to a power source, you will need a cable with a torch. Most often it comes complete with equipment, but for premium models EWM, Lincoln Electric and others it can be sold separately.
Torch for argon arc welding in section.
Burners are of valve type (the gas supply is opened by a valve on the burner) and with push-button control (pressing the button on the burner starts gas and current). The hose length of 2-5 m is selected depending on the required mobility of the welder and the size of the assembled structures.
Torch for valve-type argon-arc welding.
Torch for argon arc welding with push-button control.
For welding you need an inert gas cylinder. If you have to work periodically, then it is enough to buy a 10 liter cylinder, which does not take up much space and is easy to take in the trunk to a gas station. The same option is practical for traveling work. For constant stationary activities in a workshop or production, choose a large 150 liter cylinder.
Cylinder with inert gas for argon arc welding.
The cylinder requires a reducer with high and low pressure gauges, as well as a hose connecting the cylinder to the inverter. Using a high pressure gauge, the welder monitors the remaining gas, and using a low pressure gauge, sets the argon flow rate in the torch.
Reducer pressure gauges and hose.
For welding you will need tungsten electrodes. They come with blue, gold, red or green tips for different types of metals. The most universal color is the blue tip. The electrode diameter of 1.6-4.0 mm is selected depending on the requirements for seam width, penetration depth and maximum current.
Electrodes for argon arc welding.
Argon welding can be performed without an additive if the parts fit tightly together and there is no strong mechanical load on the structure. In other cases, a filler wire made of the same material as the base metal being welded is used.
Filler wire for argon arc welding.
Video. What is argon welding and how to choose a machine for argon arc welding
TOP 5 best argon arc welding machines (TIG) by price/quality for 2022
Svarog REAL SMART ARC 200 (Z28303) BLACK (TIG, MMA)
An affordable model with universal functionality, which will be sufficient for both home use and work in a small workshop..
Thanks to the reliable device, this device can be easily mastered not only by a professional or experienced user, but also by a beginner.
Capable of operating in two modes: manual and synergetic mode . The latter allows you to abandon the tedious selection of parameters, independently tuning to the desired current supply format.
The model has good equipment, which includes not only a welding machine, but also an operator mask with a light filter, leggings, an electric holder, and electrodes with a diameter of 2.5 mm.
And the instructions will help you set up and use all the elements correctly. The parameters are displayed on a digital display, there is a current regulator on the side, and keys at the bottom for activating functions and modes.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - TIG, MMA.
- Maximum welding current - 200 A.
- Input voltage - 140-270 V.
- Efficiency - 85%.
- Weight - 3.8 kg.
pros
- convenient display;
- the ability to customize the device for yourself;
- reliable design;
- price-quality ratio;
- powerful cooling.
Minuses
- The Antistatic function, which eliminates electrode sticking, sometimes fails.
FoxWeld InverMIG 205 (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)
A good option for performing welding work in a small car service center or in your own garage.
Welding is carried out with direct current; for this, the company’s specialists use inverter technology to convert and control the welding current.
Thanks to her, it was possible to obtain a tool that is not only functional, but also small in weight and size..
The efficiency of the device is estimated by experts at 85%.
The input voltage is produced in the range of 187-253 V, and at idle it is about 60 V. Due to the fact that this model is semi-automatic, it is possible to achieve ideal welding parameters, even if the incoming voltage drops significantly.
Well suited for welding parts with small thickness . The arc is ignited by touch; there is also an inductance adjustment, with which you can control the power of the device.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
- Maximum welding current - 200 A.
- Input voltage - 187-253 V.
- Efficiency - 85%.
- Weight - 4.1 kg.
pros
- a good option for working with small thicknesses;
- convenient control;
- good equipment;
- compactness, light weight.
Minuses
- not detected.
Aurora Dynamics 200 (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)
The advantage of this model is that it is a professional device, but does not cost exorbitant amounts of money..
This is an inverter semi-automatic machine capable of operating in three modes with a maximum current of 160, 180 and 200 A.
Experts estimate the efficiency at 90 percent, which is an excellent indicator of functionality . All parameter settings are carried out using one knob.
Thanks to microprocessor control, it is possible to maintain the voltage at a constant level, without a sharp drop.
Synergetics allows you to trust a smart device, but the manufacturer has left the opportunity to manually adjust the parameters if necessary..
Another plus is economical energy consumption. The developers did not forget about the high-quality cooling system.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
- Maximum welding current - 200 A.
- Power - 6.20 kW.
- Efficiency - 90%.
- Weight - 9.2 kg.
pros
- microprocessor control;
- three types of work;
- good efficiency.
Minuses
- low PV - 30 percent.
Fubag IRMIG 160 SYN (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)
The device belongs to the advanced semi-automatic inverter type, in which the current indicators at the peak moment reach 160 A.
This is enough to weld ordinary and non-ferrous metal up to 8 mm thick. The package includes a gas burner to operate in an active or inert gas atmosphere.
Wire is used whose diameter is in the range of 0.8-1 mm.
The wire spool is placed inside the device; on its front side there is a handle for controlling the speed of wire unwinding.
You can adjust both the current and all operating parameters in MIG mode to suit your needs..
It is worth noting the effective cooling system, which protects all the main elements from overheating. The duration of switching on at peak load reaches 60%.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
- Maximum welding current - 160 A.
- Input voltage - 187-253 V.
- Efficiency - 85%.
- Weight - 12 kg.
pros
- three types of work;
- the handle does not slip in the hand;
- The package includes a burner.
Minuses
- not detected.
Aurora SPEEDWAY 180 (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)
The device is a logical continuation of the line of professional products from this brand.
It is capable of operating in three modes, the current power for all of them reaches 180 A. At the same time, the efficiency is estimated at 85 percent.
The semi-automatic machine is controlled synergistically, setting welding parameters has become available using only one regulator.
This device is recommended not only for domestic use, but also for medium-sized industries or auto repair shops.
According to the manufacturer, the model differs qualitatively from similar devices in its ability to reduce the amount and intensity of welding spatter.
And thanks to the transfer impulse, even a beginner will be able to form smooth joints that will be similar to the work of professional equipment in a factory.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
- Maximum welding current - 180 A.
- Power - 7.10 kW.
- Efficiency - 85%.
- Weight - 8 kg.
pros
- less splashing;
- high-quality seam penetration;
- voltage stability during drop;
- simple controls.
Minuses
- not detected.
Features of welding various metals
When argon welding any material, you need to learn several rules. The gap between the electrode and the surface should be 2-5 mm. The burner should be held at an angle of 45 degrees. Typically, it is held with the right hand and the filler wire is fed with the left. Do not touch the end of the needle with the additive - the electrode will get dirty, the arc will deteriorate, and tungsten may ionize into the weld pool. The additive is supplied to meet the burner. The formed seam should remain behind, and the hot gas should escape to the not yet joined sides of the workpiece.
When welding some metals, there are additional rules that a novice argon welder should know.
Aluminum
Here the barrier is the refractory oxide on top. To destroy it, use alternating current of reverse polarity. This helps to warm the surface without overheating the electrode. The alternating voltage alternates the process, preventing the workpiece from over-melting to create a burn. The pulse or double pulse function is especially useful, from which the seams will become even better.
Workpiece thickness, mm | Diameter of tungsten electrode, mm | Rod diameter, mm | Current strength, A |
1-2 | 2 | 1-2 | 50-70 |
4-6 | 3 | 2-3 | 100-130 |
4-6 | 4 | 3 | 160-180 |
6-10 | 5 | 3-4 | 220-300 |
11-15 | 6 | 4 | 280-360 |
Copper
In the liquid state, it reacts with hydrogen, which leads to the formation of large pores. Here you can use direct or alternating current, but only with reverse polarity. It is also recommended to increase the argon supply from 1.5 to 2 liters per minute. In this case, filler wire is not required, since the metal is fluid and melting of the edges is sufficient to form a strong weld. Instead of a tungsten electrode, you should use a graphite electrode, which also belongs to the non-consumable category.
Type of electrode | Workpiece thickness, mm | Electrode diameter, mm | Current strength, A | Arc length, mm |
Graphite | 2 | 6 | 125-200 | 5-8 |
5 | 8 | 200-350 | 10-15 | |
8 | 10 | 300-450 | 15-20 | |
13 | 15 | 450-700 | 25-30 | |
Coated | 2 | 2-3 | 100-120 | — |
3 | 3-4 | 120-160 | — | |
4 | 4-5 | 160-200 | — | |
5 | 5-6 | 240-300 | — | |
6 | 6-7 | 260-340 | — | |
8 | 7-8 | 380-400 | — | |
10 | 7-8 | 400-420 | — |
Titanium
An active material that reacts with the surrounding air. Welding is carried out using an increased supply of argon to protect the weld pool. Unlike copper and aluminum, titanium has low thermal conductivity. To ensure a reliable connection of the sides, the edges of the seam will need to be reinforced with additional seams. When working with workpieces thicker than 1.5 mm, titanium filler wire is used.
Workpiece thickness, mm | Electrode diameter, mm | Wire diameter, mm | Current strength, A |
0,3-0,7 | 1,6 | — | 40 |
0,8-1,2 | 1,6 | — | 60-80 |
1,5-2,0 | 2 | 2,0-2,5 | 80-120 |
2,5-3,5 | 3 | 2,0-2,5 | 150-200 |
Now, having studied the features of choosing machines for argon arc welding and having considered the rating of the best models, you can choose an inverter to perform your tasks in a private workshop or in production.
TOP 5 best inexpensive argon arc welding machines (TIG)
Svarog REAL SMART ARC 200
Budget semi-automatic, which is used for operation both manually and in synergetic mode.
That is, the user can completely trust the automatic setup or manually calibrate the necessary parameters.
In both modes, the current increases to 200 A, thanks to which an efficiency of ninety percent is achieved.
The device stands out from the entire mass of competitors with its black matte body, rubber regulators, wide configuration and versatility of use, that is, the model is popular both among amateur beginners and professional welders.
There is an automatic hot start with the possibility of manual adjustment.
The same applies to arc force. Therefore, the device is in demand in small industries and car services, as it is possible to work with thin metal parts.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - (TIG, MMA).
- Maximum welding current - 200 A.
- Power - 7.10 kVA.
- Efficiency - 90%.
- Weight - 3.8 kg.
pros
- compactness and lightness of the model;
- good equipment;
- manual and automatic modes;
- convenient control.
Minuses
- Automatic hot start sometimes does not turn on the first time.
ELITECH AIS 200D
An inexpensive, compact and lightweight model of a welding machine that can be used at home, for construction or repair work, as well as for the professional activities of auto repairmen..
The device operates in manual and automatic mode, the parameters are displayed on a small but clear digital display. The case has stable legs, thanks to which the model can be placed on any surface.
The maximum power consumption of the model is estimated at 6.2 kW, and the efficiency is 85 percent.
Its welding current range can be adjusted, from 10 A to 200 A.
Therefore, it is possible to work even with thin materials and control the penetration depth.
The device kit includes two types of cables, with an electrode holder and with a ground clamp.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - (TIG, MMA).
- Maximum welding current - 200 A.
- Input voltage - 110-275 V.
- Efficiency - 85%.
- Weight - 3.5 kg.
pros
- compact and lightweight, suitable for working at heights;
- good power indicators;
- manual and automatic control.
Minuses
- short cable.
Quattro Elementi B 205
Larger model than previous representatives of budget welding machines.
The case is in dark colors, there is a comfortable handle for carrying the device and large legs for stability on any surface.
Suitable for domestic needs, construction or repair, capable of working with both alloy steel and non-ferrous metals.
The maximum welding current reaches 205 A.
The device is very convenient to work with, thanks to its simple controls it is quite suitable for a beginner.
It is possible to set the current strength with an accuracy of one ampere.
The parameters are displayed on a digital display, which can also reflect the error number in the system, so you can always determine the reason for the stop and continue working.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - TIG, MMA.
- Maximum welding current - 205 A.
- Input voltage - 170-260 V.
- Efficiency - 90%.
- Weight - 5.3 kg.
pros
- convenient body with low weight;
- good power;
- simple control with precise adjustment.
Minuses
- At high power it heats up quickly.
Aurora STICKMATE 205
An excellent option for a welding machine for a visiting specialist . Reliable case,
which weighs less than 4.5 kg, with a rigid and wide handle for transportation.
One of the advantages of the model is the ability to use several types of electrodes - rutile, basic, and cellulose are suitable.
By adjusting the arc force, you can reduce the risk of electrode sticking. There is an automatic hot start. There is a digital display on the case, thanks to which you can track all the necessary parameters.
The current reaches 200 A in both modes, while less electricity is consumed than analogues from competitors.
Due to its functionality and affordable price, such a device is popular among professional users and beginners.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - TIG, MMA.
- Maximum welding current - 200 A.
- Input voltage - 195-264 V.
- Efficiency - 85%.
- Weight - 4.3 kg.
pros
- set of functions;
- good equipment;
- power in both modes;
- There is an automatic hot start.
Minuses
- sometimes it overheats a lot.
Wester TIG 220
A good representative of the range of this brand with an affordable price and optimal functionality for home and garden.
This is a universal inverter, suitable for manual or argon-arc processing of ordinary and non-ferrous metals with a current of up to 220 V (and for two modes).
Current indicators are displayed on the built-in digital display, at the bottom of which there is a knob in order to set this parameter accurate to the ampere.
For work, the user can use electrodes with a diameter of up to 5 mm. Optimization of the internal filling of the device and a powerful cooling system make it possible to achieve an operating time of 70% at maximum current.
If a critical temperature has been reached, the power is turned off until the device cools down.
Among the features, we note the Arc Force function, which will protect against arc rupture, and the Hot Start option will increase the current strength to achieve faster ignition of the arc.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - (TIG, MMA).
- Maximum welding current - 220 A.
- Power - 9.50 kW.
- Efficiency - 90%.
- Weight - 7.7 kg.
pros
- bright display;
- the ability to precisely adjust the current;
- protection of the housing and internal parts from overheating;
- easier arc ignition.
Minuses
- short cable.
TOP 5 best inverter welding machines (TIG)
FoxWeld InverMig 185
Another popular option from this brand for performing welding work in a small car service center or in your own garage.
Welding is carried out with direct current; for this, the company’s specialists use inverter technology to convert and control the welding current. Thanks to her, it was possible to obtain a tool that is not only functional, but also light in weight and size.
Often used for on-site and high-altitude work, since the dimensions allow the device to be placed in the trunk, and the body has a thick handle for carrying.
The input voltage is produced in the range of 187-253 V, and at idle it is about 60 V. Due to the fact that this model is semi-automatic, it is possible to achieve ideal welding parameters, even if the incoming voltage drops significantly.
Has an internal wire feeder whose speed can be adjusted.
Well suited for welding parts with small thickness.
The arc is ignited by touch, there is also an inductance adjustment, with which you can control the power of the device.
The kit includes a gas burner, which saves both money and time on selecting the right tool.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
- Maximum welding current - 180 A.
- Input voltage - 187-242 V.
- Efficiency - 90%.
- Weight - 20 kg.
pros
- parameters can be adjusted;
- digital display;
- good equipment;
- slight spattering of metal.
Minuses
- a little heavy.
RESANTA SAIPA-190MF
A welding machine from a popular brand with universal use . Useful for
work with aluminum sheets, cast iron, most grades of steel, as well as for cutting metal. Thanks to the presence of argon arc welding, it is possible to combine alloy steels, as well as non-ferrous metals of different types.
The manufacturer has taken care to provide a powerful cooling system; due to heat removal, the duty cycle is extended by up to 70 percent..
If the temperature of the power elements rises to the maximum, the thermal protection turns off the power to the device until they cool completely.
There is a special regulator on the front panel that controls the speed of wire unwinding.
Here the user can monitor the current and arc voltage. This helps control the depth of welding of parts. In the MMA current activation mode, the broaching of filler material can also be monitored.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
- Maximum welding current - 190 A.
- Operating voltage - 17.60-27.60 V.
- Efficiency - 90%.
- Weight - 11.26 kg.
pros
- there is both two-stroke and four-stroke welding;
- convenient control;
- good cooling.
Minuses
- The cable is short, and its insulation often cracks and breaks.
Aurora INTER TIG 200 AC/DC Pulse
A decent option for professional use that can handle both AC and DC current.
It is a representative of reliable technology, created by experienced specialists.
A powerful cooling system will not allow overheating or breakdown; the digital display shows not only parameters for setting, but also error codes, so that it is possible to troubleshoot and resume operation.
Thanks to a wide range of current strength, a specialist is able to control the weld penetration and make the overlap as smooth as possible. You can work with both alloy steel and non-ferrous metals.
The device is suitable for outdoor use; it is not afraid of frost down to minus twenty degrees and extreme heat, and a special function reduces the amount of splashes.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - TIG, MMA.
- Maximum welding current - 200 A.
- Input voltage - 187-253 V.
- Efficiency - 85%.
- Weight - 20 kg.
pros
- wide functionality;
- good equipment;
- high power and precision.
Minuses
- not detected.
ELITECH AIS 220D
One of the best representatives of such devices, thanks to the successful combination of low price, good functionality, power and compactness.
The maximum welding current reaches 220 A. This allows you to fully process various types of metals and carry out even the most delicate manipulations.
This is an excellent device for home use, suitable for construction or repair work, and can be taken with you on trips or for performing high-altitude procedures..
The duty cycle at the highest current point is 80%, so you can use the device for a long time without interruption. This is facilitated by a powerful cooling system.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - TIG, MMA.
- Maximum welding current - 220 A.
- Input voltage - 110-275 V.
- Efficiency - 90%.
- Weight - 3.5 kg.
pros
- lightweight and compact;
- electrodes do not stick;
- minimum splashes.
Minuses
- not detected.
RESANTA SAI-250AD AC/DC
The model belongs to modern installations that can work with both direct current (to weld steel and various metals) and alternating current (to remove oxidation from non-ferrous metals).
The maximum current in both modes reaches 250 A. The device can be used not only indoors, but also outdoors, since it is not afraid of frosts down to minus ten and heat up to plus forty.
The manufacturer managed to achieve light weight and compact dimensions so that the user is not tied to one place and can transport the device as needed..
On the case there are parameter regulators, the indicators of which are displayed on a digital display. You can also see error codes there.
The model has good forced cooling, so the device can operate for a long time at high power.
Main characteristics:
- Welding types - TIG, MMA.
- Maximum welding current - 250 A.
- Input voltage - 198-242 V.
- Efficiency - 85%.
- Weight - 15 kg.
pros
- convenient control with precise settings;
- an affordable tool for a professional;
- wide range of equipment.
Minuses
- not detected.
Pros and cons of argon welding
When using this method the following advantages are obtained:
- It is possible to adjust the seam height by using filler wire or not using it.
- During operation, no splashes of hot metal are generated.
- Heating occurs locally, eliminating the occurrence of deformation of the workpiece.
- Can reliably connect thin surfaces.
- The seams produced by argon welding have high strength.
- No slag crust is formed.
- Thin and neat seams are created.
- The resulting connections are leak-tight.
- You can weld metals that cannot be joined using conventional welding.
- Once the work is completed, there is often no need for additional machining.
Performing welding using an additive.
Source srbu.ru This welding method has the following disadvantages:
- The process is slower than with conventional welding.
- Setting up and using a welding machine requires professional knowledge and skills.
- When using an additive, it is necessary to adjust the wire feed. It is quickly consumed and requires constant attention.
- Tungsten electrodes are used, which are more expensive than conventional ones.
- When performing work, it is necessary to ensure the availability of an argon cylinder.
- When there is air movement or a draft, the argon is blown away, making welding difficult. In order to perform the work efficiently, it must be done indoors or use protection from the wind.
- The use of a ceramic nozzle limits the visibility of the seam.
- The burner cap makes it difficult to work in hard-to-reach places.
Argon welding allows for better processing, but requires the provision of suitable working conditions.
Scheme of operation of argon arc welding Source srbu.ru