The best welding inverters have fallen into our TOP: functional, powerful and capable of customizing the parameters of work, so that even beginners get decent seams.
Content:
What welding inverters are better
Each inverter has a number of characteristics that you need to pay attention to before buying it. Consider the main ones:
PV
PV - the ratio of the operating cycle to the cooling period, is indicated as a percentage and is calculated for a 10-minute period. For example, a 50% PV indicates the need for a five-minute rest after 5 minutes of continuous work.
Accordingly, the higher this indicator is, the longer the device will be able to operate and less time will be spent on forced breaks.
Welding current
It all depends on the thickness of the workpiece and the diameter of the electrode, so the current can always be adjusted. The main thing - that the stock was sufficient.
For most works with universal electrodes 4 mm, 120-200 A will suffice. But if you have to work with thick rods and powerful blanks, the inverter must provide at least 250-350 A.
No-load voltage
Voltage idling determines the ease of ignition and affects the stability of the arc. Novice users should refer to models with indicators of 60-90 V. Experienced welders will suit devices with a wider range from 40 to 90 V.
We will touch only the most useful ones:
1. Arc Force or "Fast and the Furious" - increases the stability of the welding arc.
2. Anti Stick - automatically changes the current flow when the electrode sticks.
3. Hot Start - simplifies the process of arc formation when working with low-quality electrodes or welding oxidized metal.
4. VRD (Voltage Reduction DeВice) - lowers the no-load voltage to 9-12 V, safe for humans. With the start of the welding process, the operating parameters are automatically restored.
The rest of the nuances of choosing a welder beginners can learn from our article: how to choose a welding inverter.
The best inverters for manual MMA welding
This section presents inverter devices for the simplest type of welding - coated electrodes.
Eurolux IWM190 - budget option
One of the most inexpensive inverters provides comfortable welding performance due to its low weight (3.7 kg), a wide range of currents from 10 to 190 A and Hot Start function.
The device can operate without any reduction in efficiency with an input voltage from 140 to 260 V. The allowable diameter of the electrodes is 1.6-5 mm. The front panel of the device provides a current regulator and indicators of the current status of the inverter.
Advantages:
- Overload protection;
- Wide range of welding currents;
- High PV ratio of 70% at maximum;
- Fast and the Furious Arc;
- The cost is slightly higher than 4 thousand rubles.
Disadvantages:
- Short complete cables (2 and 1.5 m);
- Demanding on the quality of the electrodes.
Eurolux is an entry level inverter for small amounts of welding. He will be a great helper to the cottagers, useful in a private house and garage.
Fubag IQ200 - compact and powerful model
Novelty in the model range of welding inverters of the German manufacturer is suitable for most household welding works. The device has a wide range of adjustment of currents from 20 to 200 A, there is a built-in cooling system and overload protection.
It is nice to see in the “home” inverter a complete set of useful functions: boost, anti-sticking, hot start. Thanks to them, it is possible to work with comfort with any electrodes of 1.6-5 mm.
Advantages:
- Good feature set;
- Compact and lightweight (3 kg);
- Stable operation with a low input voltage of 150 V;
- High efficiency due to the use of IGBT transistors.
Disadvantages:
- Relatively low PV ratio of 40%;
- To the current regulator in working gloves do not crawl.
Due to its good functionality and fair performance, IQ200 can be recommended to both professionals and beginners. But the device itself is designed only for short-term work with long breaks.
Resanta SAI-220 - the most functional of the "handbrake"
MMA-inverters "Resanta" can be called the best in terms of price, functionality and quality.
Hot start, anti-sticking of the electrode and an increased threshold value of the welding current of 220 A allow you to make high-quality welds and metal cutting. At the same time, the possibility of long-term continuous operation remains, and the arc stability is maintained even with a low input voltage.
Resanta SAI-220 is the most unpretentious model in the line and is suitable only for studying welding. But it has a compact analogue of 220K, differing only in smaller dimensions and weight, as well as a more advanced variation with the marking “PN”.
This device already has a display with large and bright numbers, and it will be easier to deal with its settings.
Advantages:
- Strong case with ip21 protection;
- Wide range of current settings (from 10 A);
- Stable operation at a voltage of 140 V;
- High PV - 70%.
- Case included.
Disadvantages:
- No function afterburner;
- Poor hypothermia.
Resanta SAI-220 is suitable for both novice welders and experienced craftsmen - just select the appropriate modification.
Spark MIG-305SP - 2-in-1 hybrid
The features of this unit are relatively low power (6.4 kW), as well as separate adjustment of the arc voltage and welding current within 20-305 A, which is very atypical for models of the budget price category. And most importantly - we have a full-fledged semi-automatic hybrid with the possibility of manual welding.
The manufacturer decided to save on additional functionality. Iskra received only the most necessary for solving standard tasks: a button for fast wire filling, an indication of overload and the possibility of changing polarity in semi-automatic mode.
Advantages:
- Ability to work without a gas medium in MMA mode;
- Rich equipment up to the shield and knee pads;
- Work in continuous mode - 60%;
- Low cost for semi-automatic.
Disadvantages:
- No torch quick coupler.
"Spark" - a simple but reliable inverter, which is suitable for occasional use in the country or in the garage. And you can use it as a semi-automatic MIG, and as a normal MMA device.
The best inverters for semi-automatic welding MIG and MAG
Invertor semi-automatic machines operating in an inert environment (MIG) are intended for welding non-ferrous metal and alloyed steels.
Devices that use CO2 and nitrogen as protective gaseous media are called MAG. But lately, inverters have become increasingly common, combining both methods of welding.
Blue Weld Starmig 210 DualSynergic - with microprocessor
A very functional model belongs to the premium segment. The main feature of this inverter is the automatic adjustment of the parameters of operation in the MIG / MAG modes, for which 17 ready-made programs are provided.
The device independently selects the welding current based on the thickness of the metal being welded, diameter and type of wire. But if you want, you can simply disable synergetics.
With the characteristics of the device is also a complete order: the range of welding currents varies from 20 to 200 A, and the minimum voltage at the input, sufficient for normal operation, is 160 V.
Advantages:
- Easy operation;
- Microprocessor and manual control;
- Ability to work in MIG / MAG modes;
- Wide range of operating currents;
- Compact size.
Disadvantages:
- Low PV ratio - 20%;
- The price is about 60 thousand rubles.
Blue Weld Starmig is an advanced semiautomatic device that even beginners will make friends with. For professionals, this inverter is also suitable: automatic settings will only allow you to focus on the seam, and if necessary, you can adjust them manually.
AuroraPRO Overman 200 - when mains voltage is unstable
Unlike many standardized models, the Overman inverter semiautomatic device is “sharpened” to work exclusively with wire.
Its feed rate is set on a two-position switch. The developers compensated for the lack of smooth adjustment by improving some of the characteristics important for the domestic user.
Thus, the input voltage threshold was only 140 V, and the idling rates were reduced to 42 V. The current strength here is regulated within 40-200 A, which allows you to perform most of the standard work at the household level.
Advantages:
- High-quality assembly;
- Protected case (ip 21);
- Works with all types of welding wire;
- Separate adjustment of current and inductance;
- Removable burner sleeve with Euro connector;
- Stable operation at low voltage.
Disadvantages:
- No smooth adjustment of wire feed speed;
- PV only 40%;
- Bulky design and weight more than 15 kg.
AuroraPRO is a great option for workshops and repair shops in the suburbs or on the periphery. The quality of welding at the device is at a height, and it can work even with a sinking voltage in the network.
Svarog ProMIG 200 Synergy - a universal model for professionals
One of the most popular inverters of the new generation provides 4 MAG / MIG operation modes with the possibility of argon-arc welding.
The synergetic control system automatically adjusts the inverter operation depending on the selected type of work, thickness and material of the workpiece.
Thanks to the microprocessor, the device gently ignites and keeps the arc well. But much more interesting is the extensive list of additional functions of the inverter: changing the polarity of the current, welding steel, powder and stainless wire, idle run, test gas blowing, adjustable afterburner.
Advantages:
- Wide range of currents 10-200 A;
- Automatic and manual settings for current and voltage parameters;
- VRD function;
- The optimal shutdown frequency (PV) is 60%;
- 5 years warranty from the manufacturer.
Disadvantages:
- The cost is about 50 thousand.
Svarog ProMIG - a decent hybrid, which gives an equally good result for any type of welding. An inexperienced welder will cope with it, but the high cost of the device translates it into the category of professional equipment.
Fubag IRMIG 200 Syn - a family of four-mode semi-automatic
Despite the confusing name, in front of us is a multifunctional semi-automatic, designed to work in all welding modes. The range of welding current depends on the chosen technology and varies in the range of 15-200 A.
The shutdown frequency is 60%, but this is at an ambient temperature of +40 ° C. And at standard +20 ° C, the inverter will be able to work practically without stopping.
The considered device is the youngest and available in the line of the German brand. In addition to it, the Plus series with a hot start and afterburner of the arc, as well as a semi-automatic LCD with a large color display on the control panel, entered the series.
Advantages:
- Universality;
- Extended current setting range;
- Ability to work in several welding modes;
- Availability of displays to display the selected characteristics;
- Long sleeve burner 3 m.
Disadvantages:
- Short electrode holder and ground cables;
- A rather big weight (12 kg).
Fubag IRMIG is a serious professional device that is suitable for any type of welding, including manual technology.
Best TIG TIG Inverters
Inverter devices for argon welding are used for welding thin, alloyed, stainless and non-ferrous metals in inert argon.
AuroraPRO Inter TIG 202 - works in any weather
This inexpensive inverter is distinguished by high reliability and stable operation due to the use of MOSFET technology. He also received a contactless arc ignition system and is able to work in difficult conditions at a temperature of -20 .. + 50 ° C.
The characteristics of the apparatus of the total number are not knocked out: the strength of the welding current is regulated within 10-200 A, the PV coefficient shows quite decent 60%.
Additional functionality also allows you to use the inverter in MMA mode, providing easy ignition and a stable arc.
Advantages:
- Dual mode TIG / MMA;
- Inexpensive MOSFET transistors;
- Contactless ignition;
- Dustproof housing;
- Good basic equipment.
Disadvantages:
- No additional features.
Inter TIG - entry-level model for beginners in argon-arc welding. Simple to ugliness, but reliable and convenient in operation.
Svarog Real TIG 200 - inexpensive TIG / MMA inverter
The Svarog device, similar in its functionality, also supports two welding technologies: manual and TIG.
In the first case, the current can be changed within 10-200 A, in the second, the “ceiling” is lower and is only 160 A.
But the model works steadily at an input voltage of 160 V, and does not require long interruptions even at maximum currents, if the ambient temperature is +18 .. + 25 ° C.
Advantages:
- Ease of use;
- The purge time is adjustable within 1-10 seconds;
- High-frequency arc ignition;
- Efficiency rate of 85%;
- Relatively light weight.
Disadvantages:
- Few settings, and almost no additional functions.
Svarog Real is the best model for those who are looking for a budget inverter argon-arc welding without unnecessary frills.
Resanta SAI-250AD AC / DC - double inverter model
Non-killing TIG-installation with a double inverter allows you to work on direct and alternating current, which greatly expands the possibilities of welding of various metals and their alloys. The device provides a stable arc in the range of currents from 15 to 250 A.
The welder can operate in MMA mode, and also has many useful functions: Hot Start, Pre Flow Purge and Post Gas. There is also the Down Slope option with smooth arc attenuation for brewing the final crater.
Advantages:
- Two- and four-stroke modes;
- Ability to work with direct and alternating current;
- Automatic amp reduction;
- Rich equipment;
- Good feature set.
Disadvantages:
- Short cables;
- No carry handles.
Resant 250AD is worthy of the attention of professional welders who understand all the intricacies of customization. This inverter will help to get a perfect weld quality on any metal.
Wert MMA 200 - the easiest inverter
A professional welder, both in manual and TIG-mode, can operate with a maximum current of up to 200 A.
Particularly voracious, it does not differ, consuming no more than 4.2 kW. Drawdowns and power surges are not frightening to him either: the device does not respond to drops in the range of 136-264 V.
The case of the inverter is compact, and the device itself is very light - just over 2.5 kg. This is convenient to wear on the shoulder or even put on around the neck due to the long woven strap.
Advantages:
- Indication and protection against overheating;
- Dust and splash protection (ip 21);
- Hot Start function;
- Minimum weight;
- Price within 4-5 thousand rubles.
Disadvantages:
- Complete cables are a bit short;
- Sticking on small currents is possible.
Wert is an easy and convenient “home” inverter, with which it is convenient to work at a height where the device has to be hung around the neck.
The best universal welding inverters
This category presents the most functional semi-automatic, capable of equally well to work in all modes.
Cedar MIG 175GD - budget wagon
Despite the low cost, this welder in its capabilities is not inferior to professional inverters.
It is controlled by a microprocessor, the IGBT power unit regulates all parameters in automatic mode, but Kedr also allows manual tuning of current-voltage characteristics.
In the MMA mode, the peak current is 175 A, the PV index reaches 60%. Also, when the owner is available, two 2T / 4T modes are available, and the safety of operation of the device is ensured by VRD.
Advantages:
- The four-cycle mode allowing to do equal seams;
- Convenient synergistic management;
- There is overload protection;
- Unpretentious and has protection from rain and dust;
- Long continuous work on weak currents (to 100 A).
Disadvantages:
- There is no contact ignition arc;
- When protection is triggered, a restart will be required.
“Cedar” is an excellent and non-capricious inverter for a private workshop, a summer residence or a country house. Even in the hands of an inexperienced user, he will give a good quality seam and will not require complicated settings.
Quattro Elementi MultiPro 2100 - with cooling system
The device of the famous Italian manufacturer in manual welding mode gives a maximum current of 160 A and allows the use of electrodes 1.6-4 mm.
When switching to a semiautomatic device, the welding current can be raised up to 190 amperes. And IGBT transistors will provide good power and trouble-free operation of the device.
The inverter itself has good functionality (hot start, anti-sticking, adjustable afterburner). The cooling of the power unit is realized with the help of massive radiators blown by the built-in fan. Coil wire is placed inside the housing.
Advantages:
- Argon arc welding in 2T / 4T modes;
- Good functionality;
- Welding short and jet arc;
- Compact size.
Disadvantages:
- Low PV ratio - 35%;
- Plastic feed mechanism.
Thanks to its versatility, MultiPro simplifies many processes in a private workshop or in a small production. But you will need to purchase a torch for argon-arc welding separately - for some reason it is not bundled.
Aurora Speedway 175 - for domestic and professional use
A synergistic semi-automatic inverter with excellent indicators of continuous operation and a solid level of protection is considered the “small flagship” of the new line of the manufacturer.
Its efficiency is 80%, the range of welding currents is adjustable in the range of 20-175 A. The device is universal and can work with electrodes 2.5-5 mm or wire 0.6-1 mm.
The main features of the model are the automatic adjustment of wire feed and voltage (synergetic), as well as the presence of an integrated power unit IGBT, which plays the role of a filter.
The lower limit for voltage in the mode of semi-automatic welding is 120 V, for MMA it is slightly higher - 140 V. The speedway is able to work in a carbon dioxide, inert gas environment, equipped with a TIG connector and a VRD function.
Advantages:
- Euro socket burner;
- Increased level of protection for ip 23;
- It tolerates a voltage drop in the network;
- Microprocessor control;
- Ability to work in manual settings.
Disadvantages:
- Automatic settings are not always correct;
- Low PV at maximum current - 35%.
Speedway 175 not only allows you to apply different welding technologies, but also fully prepared for all types of work. Complete with the device already go: a torch with tips under a wire of the different size, nozzles and raskhodniki for argonodugovy welding, and also many other useful accessories.
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