A home master, and even more so a professional, often cannot do without working with metal. Having your own welding machine will help you make gates with your own hands, weld hinges or repair children's sleds. In fact, welding is a simple matter. Modern inverter welders are simple and easy to use. We offer to analyze how inverters differ from transformers, how to choose a model, we will give a rating of the best options for different price categories, an overview of popular semi-automatic devices.
Content:
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Ranking table
| Place in the ranking / Name | Expert evaluation | Price range, rub. |
|---|---|---|
Rating of household inverters | ||
Wert SWI 190 | 82 out of 100 | From 2639 to 3813* |
Wert MMA 180N | 84 out of 100 | From 2645 to 4599* |
Kolner KIWM 180i | 88 out of 100 | From 4,090 to 6,626* |
RESANTA SAI-160K | 92 out of 100 | From 3,689 to 6,590* |
Rating of semi-professional inverters | ||
Fubag IR 160 | 90 out of 100 | From 5 100 to 8 225 * |
ZUBR Master SA-250K | 92 out of 100 | From 6019 to 8270* |
RESANTA SAI-250K | 96 out of 100 | From 7,224 to 11,893* |
Rating of professional inverters | ||
FoxWeld Master 162 | 91 out of 100 | From 10 919 to 16 428* |
RESANTA SAI-250PN | 95 out of 100 | From 12,596 to 15,690* |
Svarog REAL SMART ARC 200 (Z28303) | 98 out of 100 | From 12 330* |
* Prices are for August 2020
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Among professionals, there is no consensus on whether an inverter, transformer welding machine or a rectifier is better. According to statistics, transformers are the most common in the professional field. The inverter also owns leadership in the domestic and professional fields. Let's compare these two types of equipment.
Transformers have a high load on the network, so more than 6 kW is consumed to work with an electrode with a cross section of 3 mm. Inverters consume several times less. To work with the same electrode, less than 4 kW is required. Another plus of inverter welders is the loss of compact dimensions and weight of about 4 kg. Transformer devices are large in size, they are almost twice as large.
The advantage of transformers lies in their versatility. Such devices are able to work in almost any conditions, including in continuous mode. At the same time, inverters are sensitive to humidity and cold, they should be protected from overheating, take breaks in work.
The mains voltage directly affects the operation of the inverter. During surges, the arc will be unstable, except for models equipped with surge protection. The arc of transformers is resistant to drops. Changes in the input voltage do not affect the stability of the welding current. If we talk about cost, the price of inverters is 2-3 times higher than that of transformers.
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Classes of welding inverters
According to the scope of application, inverter welding machines are usually divided into three classes:
- Household - used by home craftsmen in the country or in the garage. It is also worth giving preference to such models for beginners. They are suitable for short-term work of small volume.For such devices, the welding current indicator varies from 120 to 200 A.
- Professional - find application among employees of small commercial companies. Such models are perfect for the manufacture of small structures, pipe repairs. Unlike household appliances, they can be used for continuous operation. The welding current indicator varies from 200 to 300 A.
It is customary to single out more semi-professional units. In this case, the master receives a high quality seam, the average duration of continuous work. Also in the assortment of specialized stores there are industrial-grade welding inverters. They are used in the construction industry, during the installation of pipelines and other facilities. The devices are designed for high loads and work in harsh conditions. The welding current indicator reaches 500 A.
Specifications. When buying a welding inverter, you should pay attention to the following parameters:
- welding current;
- Open circuit voltage level;
- Mains voltage;
- Work at maximum current.
The welding current indicator is the most important characteristic. It determines the thickness of the workpieces to be welded. The welding current is measured in amperes. So, for welding workpieces with a thickness of 2-12 mm with an electrode with a cross section of 3 mm, a welding current of 100-150 A is sufficient. To work with workpieces of 10-40 mm with an electrode of 5 mm, a current of 170-270 A is required. like IMax.
The minimum welding current (IMin) is required for working with thin sheet metal. If it is necessary to weld parts made of stainless steel or steel with a thickness of less than 2 mm, they should be heated at a minimum current. In this case, a minimum level of machine settings is required. Often the lower limit is 10A.
The open circuit voltage level indicates the nominal value in volts without load. This indicator is designated as Uxx, measured in volts. This characteristic indicates the stability of the welding arc and the ease of ignition. The acceptable range of values is 40-90 V.
The inverter can be powered from a single or three-phase network. Often a stable voltage is rare. However, welding inverters are not demanding on the voltage level. Some models are capable of “pulling out” a 3 mm electrode even when powered by 150 volts. Operating voltage indicators are indicated either in the range of values, or as a percentage of the permissible error. When operating from a gas generator, significant voltage drops must be taken into account.
Operation at maximum current or duty cycle (PV). This parameter is measured in percentage. It indicates the duration of continuous operation at maximum current during a 10-minute cycle. If the characteristics of the device indicate PV 40%, then at the maximum current level it is able to work without interruption for 4 minutes. After that, you need a 6 minute rest.
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Welding inverters can be equipped with a number of additional features. Their presence is not critical, but greatly simplifies the work with the device.
Hot Start (Hot start) - implies an increase in amperage for a few seconds during ignition. Thanks to this, it burns more stable, and therefore even a beginner can cope with the ignition without problems.
ARC Force (Arc Force) - when the electrode approaches the metal surface of the workpiece, the current strength increases, which prevents it from sticking.
Anti Stick (Anti-sticking) - if the end of the electrode touches the workpiece, the current flow stops. This allows it to be easily torn off the workpiece. If this does not happen, a short circuit will occur.
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Rating of the best welding inverters
When compiling the list of TOP 10 welding inverters, not only technical characteristics were taken into account, but also the price, assessments of expert buyers.
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The list includes budget models from well-known manufacturers. Such devices costing up to 5000 rubles are characterized by a current strength of not more than 200 A.
Wert SWI 190
Specifications:
- Price - 2,639 - 3,813 rubles;
- User rating - 4.4;
- Welding current - 20-190 A;
- Type of welding - MMA, TIG;
- Power - 3.7 kW;
- PV at maximum current - 60%;
- Electrode diameter - 1.6 - 4 mm;
- hot start;
- Anti Stick;
- A.R.C Force.
It is designed for manual arc and TIG welding. The device works stably from a power supply network with a voltage of 150 to 250V. The indicator of the maximum current strength is 190 A. The welder is equipped with a hot start function, anti-sticking and arc afterburner. Overheating protection provided.
Wert MMA 180N
Specifications:
- Price - 2,645 - 4,599 rubles;
- User rating - 4.3;
- Welding current - 20-180 A;
- Type of welding - MMA, TIG;
- Power - 3.7 kW;
- PV at maximum current - 60%;
- Electrode diameter - 1.6 - 4 mm;
- hot start;
- Anti Stick
- A.R.C Force.
It is designed for manual arc and argon arc welding. The device operates at a voltage of 40 V. Hot start function, anti-sticking and arc force are provided. A shoulder strap for carrying is included in the scope of delivery.
Kolner KIWM 180i
Specifications:
- Price - 4,090 - 6,626 rubles;
- User rating - 4.4;
- Welding current - 20-180 A;
- Type of welding - MMA;
- Power - 6.1 kW;
- PV at maximum current - 60%;
- Electrode diameter - 1.6 - 4 mm;
- hot start;
- Anti Stick;
- A.R.C Force.
The unit is easy to use and compact in size. There is a ventilation hole on the case to improve cooling efficiency. Quick-release connectors provide a comfortable connection of cables. The device operates with an input voltage of 150 V.
RESANTA SAI-160K
Specifications:
- Price - 4,090 - 6,626 rubles;
- User rating - 4.7;
- Welding current - 10-160 A;
- Type of welding - MMA;
- Power - 6.3 kW;
- The diameter of the electrodes is 1 - 4 mm.
- hot start;
- Anti Stick.
The model has a compact size, thanks to the presence of a belt in the kit, it is convenient for transportation. The case is made of metal, which protects the internal components from shock and damage. Special connectors make it possible to quickly and easily connect the cable without current drop at the connection points. On the front panel there are LED indicators for monitoring the operation. Adjustment of welding current step. The function of protection against overheating, anti-sticking and hot start is provided.
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The top 3 included models from trusted manufacturers worth up to 10,000 rubles.
Fubag IR 160
Specifications:
- Price - 5,100 - 8,225 rubles;
- User rating - 4.6;
- Welding current - 10-160 A;
- Type of welding - MMA;
- Power - 6.6 kW;
- PV at maximum current - 60%;
- Electrode diameter - 1.6 - 4 mm;
- hot start;
- Anti Stick;
- A.R.C Force.
Compact dimensions and light weight allow you to use the model even on the hand. On the front surface of the case there are two LEDs indicating the activation and operation of thermal protection. The device is equipped with special power connectors for efficient connection of welding cables. The design provides for a forced cooling system, as well as additional anti-stick, hot start, arc force functions.
ZUBR Master SA-250K
Specifications:
- Price - 6,019 - 8,270 rubles;
- User rating - 5.0;
- Welding current - 20-250 A;
- Type of welding - MMA;
- Power - 8.4 kW;
- PV at maximum current - 40%;
- Electrode diameter - 1.6 - 6 mm;
- hot start;
- Anti Stick;
- A.R.C Force.
It implements IGBT technology, which provides for smooth adjustment of the welding current, economical energy consumption with high efficiency, the ability to weld various materials. The device provides the function of protection against overload and overheating, hot start, anti-sticking and arc force. Stable operation is guaranteed even with an input voltage of 160V.
RESANTA SAI-250K
Specifications:
- Price - 7,224 - 11,893 rubles;
- User rating - 4.5;
- Welding current - 10-250 A;
- Type of welding - MMA;
- Power - 9.35 kW;
- Electrode diameter - 2 - 6 mm;
- hot start;
- Anti Stick.
The device is equipped with the functions of arc force, anti-sticking and hot start. Works with electrodes with a section up to 6 mm. The device differs in compactness and small weight that allows to use it even for works at height. The system of LED indicators allows you to control the operation of the device. An advanced ventilation system and a durable steel housing ensure a long service life.
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The TOP 3 includes welding inverters designed for professional use. The cost of such models is from 10,000 rubles.
FoxWeld Master 162
Specifications:
- Price - 10,919 - 16,428 rubles;
- User rating - 5.0;
- Welding current - 20-160 A;
- Type of welding - MMA;
- PV at maximum current - 100%;
- Electrode diameter - 1.6 - 5 mm;
- hot start;
- Anti Stick.
It is designed for manual arc welding. The device has a high power. It is reliable in operation, despite its compact dimensions. On the body is an intuitive control panel with a digital screen. Bayonet connectors allow you to quickly connect the welding cable. The efficiency of the device is 85%.
RESANTA SAI-250PN
Specifications:
- Price - 12,596 - 15,690 rubles;
- User rating - 4.6;
- Welding current - 10-250 A;
- Type of welding - MMA;
- Power - 7.7 kW;
- PV at maximum current - 70%;
- Electrode diameter - 3 - 6 mm;
- hot start;
- Anti Stick;
- A.R.C Force.
It is able to work with metals of various types, provide high quality welds. The model performs well with voltage drops ranging from 140 to 240 V. Anti-sticking function, arc force and hot start are provided. The digital display allows you to control the welding process, on which the welding current indicator is displayed in real time. The screen is protected by special glass. Quick connectors make it easy to connect welding cables.
Svarog REAL SMART ARC 200 (Z28303) BLACK
Specifications:
- Price - 12,330 rubles;
- User rating - 4.8;
- Welding current - 15-200 A;
- Type of welding - MMA, TIG;
- Power - 7.1 kW;
- PV at maximum current - 60%;
- Electrode diameter - 1.5-4 mm;
- hot start;
- Anti Stick;
- A.R.C Force.
The model is designed for professional use. The unit operates in both manual and synergic modes, the settings in this case are set in automatic mode. In addition, the model is equipped with a hot start function, arc afterburner and anti-sticking. The device perfectly shows itself with an input voltage range of 160 to 270 V. You can work as a welder in a temperature range from -10 to +40 degrees. and humidity not more than 80%.
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When choosing a household inverter, pay attention to the rated welding current. A margin of 30-50% must be added to the required value. You should also pay attention to the level of mains voltage. Household units are usually powered from a single-phase 220V network. However, it may be stable or unstable. If there are practically no voltage surges in the power supply network, it makes no sense to purchase a device with a deviation from the standard voltage of more than 10-15%. If the unit will be used in a garage or garden plot, where there are often jumps in the network, a model with a margin of 20% or more should be preferred.
When choosing a professional model, you should take into account the thickness of the parts with which you will work. The strength of the current, the level of the duration of the inclusion of the electrodes will depend on this. You should also consider how intensively the inverter will be used.The duration of the inclusion should also be taken into account. This parameter indicates the cooking period and the rest time for a work cycle of 10 minutes. So, at a value of 70%, you can continuously work for 7 minutes at a temperature of 40 degrees, after which a 3-minute break is required.
Professional inverters can be powered from a single-phase or three-phase 380 V mains. You should also pay attention to the presence of surge protection if the voltage level is unstable.
When buying an inverter welder, you should pay attention to products of well-known brands. Among them are manufacturers such as Brima, FoxWeld, Fubag, Resanta.
