Welding transformers have a simple structure of two windings, the distance between which creates an electromagnetic induction. This lowers the voltage and increases the welding current. A simple scheme allows you to weld metal parts and make cheap repairs. The rating has collected the best models of transformers that can be used both for short work with thin iron (profile pipe, heating pipes, plumbing), and constantly, on large-scale projects (manufacturing of metal structures, tanks, frameworks).
The best welding transformers for small works
In the garage or in the yard of your own home you often need something to cook: make a brazier, fence, grill. This does not require expensive equipment with direct current, and cheap variable voltage transformers are suitable here.
Bison ZTS-200 - compact and maneuverable
Small as for transformers, the device is designed for welding all low-carbon types of steel. It has a robust body made of fully metal parts, assembled on screws.
The current is chosen between 60 and 200 A, which allows you to work with steel plates from 1.5 to 6 mm. The front panel has a convenient switch between single-phase and three-phase networks. The voltage output is variable.
Pros:
- quality wheels for transportation;
- convenient handle for transportation and winding wires;
- thermal fuse prevents overheating and short circuit on the windings;
- forced ventilation;
- high-quality fixing of cables with clamping screws;
- protective caps on the terminals to minimize the accidental contact of current-carrying parts;
- coil regulator placed on the front end panel for easy configuration;
- cheap (3000-4000 rubles);
- power is 11,2 kW;
- first class electrical safety.
Minuses:
- when working at maximum current heats up quickly, so after welding for 1 minute a break of 9 minutes is necessary;
- heavy for carrying in hands (19 kg);
- The 48V idle is unusual for a beginner to ignite an arc;
- need a powerful machine at the entrance to 35 A;
- it will not be possible to quickly disconnect the cable if necessary (threaded terminal mounting).
Prorab forward 180 - the cheapest device
This is the most affordable model at a cost among transformers, where the price is within 2000 rubles.
Everything necessary for elementary welding works is already included in its package:
1. Two cables with clothespin and electric holder;
2. Shield and filter;
3. Brush on metal with slag separator on the second side.
Works with cellulose and rutile electrodes. Internal parts are reliably protected by a metal casing.
Pros:
- compact holder with a short clamping mechanism that does not cling to the clothing or product during operation;
- suitable for welding high-carbon ferrous metals;
- the device can be connected to 220 and 380;
- wide supporting legs in front;
- cooks cast iron;
- anti-corrosion coating;
- current 180 A;
- 3.5 kW power will not interfere with neighbors on the same power line;
- Intuitive front panel adjustment scale.
Minuses:
- flimsy clothespin weight of thin metal;
- the shield has narrow side walls that do not sufficiently protect against arc glow and flying scale;
- heavy (21 kg);
- maximum electrode diameter 4 mm;
- on the handle of the regulator there is no auxiliary angle indicator for quick rotation;
- no power plug.
Blue Weld Gamma 2162 - consumes little power
The compact transformer has an original design that is different from most models.The ground cable is connected at the bottom of the case, and the holder at the top. All fastenings are threaded.
The unusual handle on the top allows you to roll the device on wheels, and carry the device weighing 16 kg. Power is only 2.5 kW, when used from a household network, which will not cause disturbance of neighbors.
Pros:
- switching between 220 and 380 V;
- work on the street, at temperatures up to -10 degrees;
- built-in protection against high heat;
- the horizontal arrangement of the windings gives a compact body size of 35x64x43 cm;
- small weight of 16 kg;
- current rises to 160 A;
- able to weld plates and pipes with a thickness of 4-5 mm;
- effective air cooling;
- ground terminal rated at 250 A;
- the holder, a guard and a bump stop are supplied.
Minuses:
- 55 A minimum welding current is difficult to weld thin-walled shaped tubes and sheet iron;
- electrode diameter not more than 4 mm;
- higher price than analogs (5000 rubles).
Welding transformers for serious tasks
To boil the thicker walls of metal parts requires powerful devices with high amperage. Their performance should cover the need for welding for 6-8 hours every day.
Kavik TDM-252U2, Cu, 380 V - for a stationary welding station
It is a powerful device for welding with coated electrodes, as well as cutting and surfacing of thick metal layers. The body has four wheels to move on a flat floor and two side handles.
The adjustment lever is located at the front of the front panel, which makes it possible to put the equipment under a low canopy or at a height, and does not create difficulties in accessing the rotation handle. The maximum current reaches 250 A, and the power is 12 kW.
Pros:
- high power for cutting and surfacing of thick metals;
- productivity on 250 A makes 60%;
- the copper winding on the coils is more resistant to overheating;
- 50V idle speed facilitates arc ignition;
- the device can be switched to a three-phase network with a discharge of 40 A;
- smooth mechanical adjustment helps to choose the optimal current values for a particular product;
- The coils of windings are made of insulated aluminum grade APSD;
- the thought-over form of perforation with the prevention of hit of metal garbage;
- the rotary knob is equipped with an additional rotating element, which increases the speed of adjustment.
Minuses:
- a large mass of 40 kg, which can only be raised by two people;
- moves exclusively on a flat hard floor;
- when working with thin iron, it is necessary to install additional resistance;
- It needs good wiring and a powerful machine, since the current consumed from the 220 V network contains 70 A;
- cost over 12,000 rubles;
- Included are no cables, holder, and grounding clamps.
Brima TDM1-315-1 - for production
This is an industrial model created for repair shops and locksmith shops, where work is carried out with thick metals. The maximum current of 315 A allows welding of flanges, fittings and channels with a thickness of 20-30 mm.
The machine can cut steel up to 15 mm with coated electrodes. High performance is achieved due to the power of 24 kW, but if the three-phase network is turned off, the equipment can be temporarily switched to one phase.
Pros:
- robust housing made of thick iron;
- convenient bolted top cover for quick access to the parts being repaired;
- large wheel to adjust the distance between the coils, which increases the speed of divorce or information;
- visual scale with a moving red flag for accurate indication of the number of amperes;
- maximum current 315 A;
- Idling 70 V eliminates long tapping on the surface;
- reliable operation in everyday use;
- simple repair (inside a minimum of parts) and long service life.
Minuses:
- there are no handles for transportation, you can only push;
- a large mass of 75 kg;
- high cost of 22,000 rubles .;
- large dimensions 53x33x53 cm;
- power 24 kW needs a reliable machine and wiring;
- the minimum welding current 60 A burns through holes in metal 1 mm thick;
- productivity on 315 A is only 35% (7-minute breaks are needed after every 3-minute surfacing);
- does not support operation with electrodes with a diameter of less than 2.5 mm (they heat up quickly and burn).
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