What is the difference between welding machines. What types of welding machines are there? Features and Specifications

Welding machine or . In some cases, these words are used as synonyms.

This is not surprising, since these two equipment are designed for the same purpose and can replace each other at the right time. However, there are still differences in the form of the principle of application in practice.

The main task for beginners in the welding field is to find out what is the difference between an inverter and a welding machine?

The need for welding work arises not only in industrial activities, but also at home, in the domestic sphere. Often such work appears for owners of private houses or summer cottages. Thanks to the purchase of welding equipment, you can solve any current problem in a short time.

Before choosing a suitable design for your home, you need to understand its purpose, functions and important details of use.

A welding inverter is a device thanks to which you can carry out any welding work at large production enterprises or for private use.

A worthy choice should depend not only on price, capabilities, and quality of work performed, but also taking into account the technical characteristics of the equipment, conditions and specific nuances during operation.

Electrical circuit of a welding inverter.

Important criteria to note when selecting and purchasing inverter welding equipment are as follows:

1. The company needs to check the availability of printed circuit boards suitable for a specific design model.
   They are quite fragile, and repairs are very expensive. In other words, if a specialist has a lot of them, this indicates that the mechanism will most likely break down frequently in the future. In the absence of spare parts and the possibility of purchasing them only for individual order, we can talk about the performance and longevity of the equipment. Additionally, it is recommended to clarify the cost of repairs and production of parts.
2. Availability of built-in ventilation.
   The welding process produces a lot of dust, so it is very important that the design has a cooling fan with a direct purpose. In addition, it must suck up dust. Most manufacturers integrate tunnel ventilation. Thanks to this internal mechanism, additional protection of all main parts from dirt and dust is provided, but the cost increases significantly.
3. Protection against sudden voltage changes must be installed.
   Most welding inverters are sensitive to voltage surges due to built-in protective mechanisms that begin to work when there is a surge of 220 V.

By ensuring that the buyer receives enough information and is able to understand the differences between the transformer and the transformer, the process and task will be successfully completed without any difficulties.

The acquired knowledge will help not only specialists, but also beginners who do not understand the specifics of the instrument. The level of performance depends on the set temperature. It is this that affects the quality of functionality.

For example, due to high temperature - 40+, additional protection mechanisms may start working. However, such an indicator is quite rare in practice. With low temperatures the opposite is true.

Almost every modern equipment contains capacitors, microcontrollers, transistors, etc., which have an individual temperature range.

In cold weather, care must be taken to avoid condensation. At zero temperature, the device may simply not turn on, this will be indicated by a red light with an overload indicator.

When choosing this equipment, you need to familiarize yourself with the passport, operating conditions, permissible temperature, and also find out the possibility of repair services, warranty and the availability of the official website and detailed instructions for use from the manufacturer.

What is the difference between an inverter and a welding machine, and what characteristics are important?

Welding transformer.

Speaking about the differences between an inverter and a welding machine, it is necessary to highlight several of their characteristics.

1. The volume and weight of a welding transformer is much larger than that of an inverter.
   In industrial structures their weight sometimes reaches 100 kg.
2. Welding inverters differ from transformers in their operating principle.
   The primary rectifier changes the alternating current into a regular one, after which it again converts it into alternating current with a high frequency and again makes a revolution on the secondary rectifier. In transformer welding, the current changes due to a change in the position of the magnetic wires, in other words, from the position of the core, which reduces the equipment or includes a different number of turns in the circuit.
3. Inverters have a stable arc, which gives a stable welding current that affects the quality of the seam.
4. The inverter has a different design.
   Its design is more labor-intensive, often has additional functions, such as: changing the current value to improve the ignition of the welding arc or increasing the current to speed up the melting process and prevent the object from sticking together - a function called arc forcing, or reducing the current to increase the time electrode separation and additional protection against overheating.
5. The difference also lies in the learning process in working with a transformer and an inverter.
   It is more difficult to work with a transformer, but once you work with it, the inverter will not present any difficulties.
6. Welding machines have a wide range of alternating currents.
7. An inverter welding machine differs from a conventional welding machine in its ability to use electrodes required in any type of current.
8. With an inverter, regular current operates, while the welding machine uses alternating current with a frequency of 50 Hz.
9. The inverter has the largest of all welding equipment, however, transformers have high efficiency.
10. One of the main differences between inverter and transformer equipment is the value of the intermittent functionality coefficient.
    In the latter case, the indicator is not important, but the inverter needs periodic cooling so as not to overheat and continue to properly fulfill its purpose.

Today the market has a wide range of different welding equipment from various manufacturers. It is recommended to choose a welding transformer based on your goals and the main purpose for which you are purchasing it.

Bottom line

Not everyone understands what the difference is between and. They have plenty of different characteristics if you study each design in more detail, but to the average person they will most likely seem identical.

For people who use welding in various situations and for whom the quality of the seam is important, transformer welding equipment will be the best option.

When it is necessary to weld in large quantities, using high power, then a transformer will become a more profitable option, since it is not in danger of overheating. This is the main difference between an inverter and a welding machine.

We will look at the types and differences between them below. These units are designed for different purposes.

Not a single modern construction project or large workshop can be completed without the use of a welding machine. It is this unit that is able to firmly connect metal structures. This article will look at different types of welding machines.

Welding is almost impossible to replace. Fastening with anchors, bolts and clamps solves the problem temporarily or may not be applicable at all for a number of reasons.

Many people are interested in what types of welding machines there are. Indeed, over the long period of existence, welding devices have undergone significant changes, and as a result, completely new modifications have appeared. There are the following types of welding machines:

• transformers;
• rectifiers;
• inverter devices;
• generators;
• semi-automatic devices.

Currently, inverter-type automatic welding machines, as well as semi-automatic types, are especially popular.

So what types of welding machine does it have? The purpose of each will be considered separately.

Transformer device

This welding machine, the types and types of which are numerous, is represented by the earliest modification. We will talk about transformers that have an extremely unified circuit. They change an alternating current with a high voltage to a lower value. Thanks to this, the welding process is carried out.

Current regulation is ensured by shifting the position of the coil winding relative to each other and the main core.

Based on the configuration method, all transformer units can be divided into the following types:

• thyristor with phase regulation;
• with magnetic dispersion of standard type;
• with magnetic dispersion of increased type.

In addition, transformer devices are quite heavy, consume a lot of current and are sensitive to voltage surges.

But an experienced master will be able to carry out high-quality welding even with this device. The unit is used in many areas to this day.

Popular transformer models

Transformers with an acceptable cost are MMA devices. They are distinguished by a simple design and an average level of functionality, since the metal joining process is carried out using alternating current.

Among the leaders are the Italian companies BLUE WELD (the unit that gained particular popularity was the BLUE WELD BETA 422 817162 model) and Helvi. The latter produces devices with a high current value. In the segment of this manufacturer you can find a power rating of 550 W. For example, the Helvi Universal 550 device has 1534830.

Almost all manufacturers equip units with wheels for transportation.

Rectifiers

(types, differences we consider) are also represented by rectifiers.

This is the next generation of units after transformer ones. The developers were able to eliminate all the disadvantages of the device operating on alternating current. These types of welding machines, in addition to reducing the voltage coming from the network, can convert alternating current into direct current. This is ensured by semiconductor diodes included in the device circuit, which convert the sinusoidal current into a linear one. The linear type is distinguished by constancy and flat-feeding properties.

Positive characteristics of the device

The high level of stability of the electric arc allows you to weld metal hermetically. The level of spattering is also reduced and the connection is strong and homogeneous. The advantages of this device include the fact that everything is suitable for it. You can weld copper, nickel, titanium and even their alloys.

Popular models

• Among the rectifiers, the Italian unit BlueWeld SPACE 280 AC/DC 814300 should be noted. It is distinguished by its versatility, as it operates with both direct and alternating current in a wide range from 10 to 220 A. The device is distinguished by long-term service. It is capable of welding stainless steel and cast iron. Perfect for private use.
• For professionals, a rectifier for welding using the TIG method BLUE WELD KING TIG 280/1 AC/DC-HF/Lift 832201 is suitable. The device has high power and can even weld metals such as titanium, aluminum, copper, stainless steel, etc. It very convenient and unified when working. This unit operates not only by TIG, but also by MMA method. The device is controlled via a digital display located on the front panel.

Inverter devices

This chapter will discuss the inverter welding machine, the types and advantages of this unit.

Such devices are considered the most successful from a technical point of view. These types of welding machines (photos of some models are presented in this article) are light in weight combined with a high level of functionality. Such parameters have made the unit one of the most popular on the market.

Automated settings of the device allow welding work to be carried out even by people who have no experience in this matter. Professionals are given the opportunity to increase their level of productivity.

The principle of operation of the inverter device

All types of inverter devices have a simple circuit. The alternating current passes through the mains rectifier and is converted to direct current. After this, it enters the device block, which serves as a frequency converter, and there it again turns into alternating current, but with a higher frequency.

Then a miniature unit with a high frequency is connected to the work, where the voltage is reduced. The last link in the circuit is the power rectifier. The result is a high-power direct current at the output.

The functionality of the frequency converter is provided by a microprocessor automated control unit. It adjusts a wide range of current-voltage indicators from low-to-high values.

The main advantage of the inverter device is that it produces a perfectly smooth curve at the output. Therefore, the electric arc has a high level of stability.

Inverters can be configured with maximum precision. Therefore, they allow you to carry out high-quality welding and perform a variety of tasks. These units do not respond to power surges. The performance of the weld seam is very high. Even a thin-walled sheet of metal can be connected.

The efficiency of the unit is at least 90%. For comparison, some devices have a rate of 30%.

Inverters weld both ferrous and non-ferrous metals with any thickness and at any position in space. All types of electrodes are applicable in this type of welding.

The inverter device has a wide range of current regulation for welding. This makes it possible to use argon arc welding with a non-consumable electrode.

Each inverter has a Hot start function, which ensures that the electrode is ignited at maximum current supply.

There is an Anti-Sticking option, with which, in the event of a short circuit, the welding current is reduced to a minimum. This allows the electrode to avoid sticking when in contact with the part.

The Arc Force function prevents sticking as soon as a metal drop comes off, while the current power increases sharply to the desired level.

Any type is capable of maintaining a given current at a constant level. These indicators make it possible to less critically evaluate the length of the arc, which makes the work of the master easier, especially those who do not have the proper experience. In this case, the quality of the seam does not depend on the length of the arc.

Disadvantages of the unit

• Negative effects of dust on the operation of the device (manufacturers advise cleaning it from accumulated dirt twice a year). If it operates on a construction site, then this should be done much more often
• Welding machines do not tolerate low ambient temperatures well. So, if the reading is less than -15 degrees Celsius, using the unit is not advisable.
• The length of each welding cable when connecting the device should not be higher than 2.5 m. But this is a matter of habit.

Popular inverter models

The most common types of inverter welding machines are represented by several models.

Units from the Finnish company Kemppi are leaders in the field of welding. The Kemppi MINARC 150VRD model should be noted. It is capable of independently correcting arc parameters. All types of electrodes are suitable for working with the device. It tolerates dust and moisture well.

The German manufacturer Fubag produces high-quality welding machines. The types, the advantages of which are noted by many professionals, operate at voltages from 85 to 265 A. They are insensitive to voltage surges, which is ensured by the Protec 400 function. The single-phase inverter device Fubag In 163, suitable even for beginners, is in great demand. It produces an even, neat seam without spattering metal.

The Italian brand Telwin has gained a positive reputation in the welding inverter market. The devices operate at a voltage of 220 V DC. The units are compact and light weight. The Telwin Force 165 model deserves attention. It can withstand voltage surges within 15%.

The Italian brand ProfHelper loudly announced itself in 2007. The manufacturer presents models with excellent functionality. For example, the Prestige 181S inverter, operating at a voltage of 165 V, tolerates voltage fluctuations well. There is a stabilizer in the configuration circuit. The device is lightweight. Its mass is 8.5 kg. The welding work carried out by this device is of high quality.

Brima is a proven German brand. Among the models, the Brima Tig 200 A inverter should be noted. It is compact and convenient. Provides a high level of purity of welded metals. If there is a short circuit, the voltage drops to 0 A automatically, thereby eliminating damage to the electrode, and the metal from dirt settling on it.

Semi-automatic devices

All semi-automatic types of welding machines (a photo of one of the models is presented below) make it possible not only to reduce the time spent on work, but also to achieve high quality welding. The seam is distinguished by the fact that it is continuous, since constant change of electrodes is not required.

There are the following types of semi-automatic welding machines:

• semi-automatic machines perform welding work in a gas environment;
• The solid wire of the electrodes is fed to the arc automatically.

What gas is used?

The following gases can be used:

• nitrogen;
• oxygen;
• carbon dioxide.

The inert gases used are helium and argon. Often they are mixed.

Advantages of gas welding

The advantages of gas welding are that the device protects the air from the negative effects of the gas composition and is an electric arc stabilizer. It imparts certain characteristics to the weld.

A wire is fed through the torch, which is a replacement for a piece electrode. By selecting gases and different types of electrode wire, you can change the properties of the welding pool.

Semi-automatic devices that cook with cored wire have a high level of functionality.

If necessary, you can also buy a semi-automatic device designed for both gases and powder-type wires.

Known semi-automatic models

So what types of semi-automatic welding machines have become the most popular on the market? They are presented in a fairly wide range.

The following types of semi-automatic welding machines are considered worthy of attention:

• "Cyclone" PDG-240 DAV from a domestic manufacturer. It is equipped with several modes, has a protective function against overheating and a high current value for welding of 240 A. The unit is suitable for body work and welding metal structures made of steel. Repairable and has a good level of performance.
• "Resanta" SAI PA 165. The device is included in the budget group. It is light in weight, has optimal dimensions, and is resistant to voltage fluctuations. It has a cooling system and IGBT class electronic filling.
• "Energomash" SA-97PA20. Professionals loved this device for its reliability. It is suitable for both domestic use and large workshops. The model operates on wire welding with and without gas supply. It consumes energy economically and has a number of auxiliary functions.
• If you are looking for a unit for the MIG-MAG method, then you should pay attention to the German model Fubag TSMIG 180. Suitable for working with shielding gas, as well as with Overheating of the device is impossible thanks to the built-in cooling system. The maximum current rating is 145 A. The device will be an excellent choice for those who weld in the garage or in country houses. Welds low-carbon and low-alloy metals, as well as stainless steel. The package includes a protective mask, two contact tips, a spool of welding wire, and a special torch for MIG-MAG work.

Welding using a TIG machine

DC welding machines, the types of which are described in this article, are also represented by TIG devices. Devices of this type weld metal with an increased level of connection. They are indispensable when joining particularly difficult seams.

In addition to reliability, the devices are also distinguished by their aesthetics. When welding with TIG machines, electrodes made of graphite or tungsten are used. The device operates on the following principle: inert gas passes through the supply hoses to the burner, and electricity flows from the AC/DC electrical unit. The electrode is installed in the burner. Cylinders can be filled with helium, nitrogen and their mixture.

Usually, when welding with a non-consumable electrode, there is no droplet transfer into the weld pool. Therefore, additional consumables are used: special wire additives or tapes. Additives have different chemical compositions. This allows you to change the properties of the weld.

At a constant current, cast iron and various steels are boiled. Alternating current is used when welding parts made of non-ferrous metals.

Tig welding is complex. It requires the master to have sufficient experience and knowledge. It is not recommended for beginners to use TIG devices, despite the fact that the device is configured automatically and has unified functions.

It is recommended to start with an ordinary inverter. This will allow you to learn how to hold an arc and weld metal.

Used in many areas when working with cast iron, steel and non-ferrous metals. The relatively low level of productivity of these units is compensated by high-quality seams and minor metal losses.

Spot welding equipment works on the following principle: current welds metal under pressure. The electric arc promotes the formation of a local melt of the metal of both workpieces. When the short exposure to the arc ends, the mite pressure increases. As a result, the metal crystallizes and connects the products to each other. In most cases, spot welding is used to work with sheet material.

To secure sheets of a large area in the center, use a single-sided gun. When it operates, two welded point joints are obtained, which are located next to each other.

For spotters there is a wide range of studs, loops, welding hooks, rivets, etc.

Pros of spot welding

Among its advantages are the following:

• high level of productivity;
• strong connection;
• external aesthetics of the seam.

Pros and cons of argon arc welding

The advantages of this type of welding include:

• high level of weld quality;
• reliable connection;
• long-term service;
• welding titanium and stainless steel.

The disadvantages include:

• the need for specialized training for work;
• the inability of some models to function in DC, AC/DC modes.

Popular models of TIG welding machines

Let's consider a number of models that are in particular demand:

• "Resanta" SAI 180 AD. Provides greater convenience than transformers or rectifiers with features such as Arc Force, Anti Stick and Hot Start. The current for welding is 180 A, but the duty cycle at maximum current supply is 70%. This indicates a high level of performance, since the unit can operate continuously for 7 minutes, and is inactive for 3 minutes. This is ensured by a tunnel cooling system. The unit can also operate at low voltage 198 V.
• Those who are looking for a device with high power are recommended to pay attention to the device "Svarog" TIG 300 S. This is a professional-level device that operates at a voltage of 380 V. It tolerates voltage drops within 15%. The current supply is adjusted smoothly, which makes it possible to set precise parameters for welding work. The unit has a built-in ventilation system and cooling circuit, which ensures long-term service of the device.

Welding machines used for automobiles

Many people are interested in what types of welding machines there are for cars.

The body is the main element of every car. It requires careful care and accurate diagnosis before repair.

Welding is often used in auto repair shops. Many car enthusiasts carry it out in their garages even on their own.

There are the following types of welding machines for cars:

• Spot welding is required when two workpieces need to be joined locally. Such devices are called spotters. The automotive industry, as well as large car repair shops, cannot do without them. For workshops based on body repair, the best option would be to purchase a professional unit with high power and functionality.
• Carbon dioxide welding is also widely used. The thickness of the metal of the car body is 0.8-1 mm. For high-quality welding without piercing, you will need a carbon dioxide unit. Mastering the technique of working with a device operating on alternating current is much more difficult than using carbon dioxide. Welding work on it is carried out using a wire fed into the welding zone automatically or with a tungsten electrode. It, unlike wire, cannot be melted in a protective gas environment. The carbon dioxide unit has gained wide popularity in auto repair shops. The semi-automatic machine welds steel sheets whose thickness ranges from 0.8 to 6 mm. The welding seam is distinguished by its aesthetics and high quality.

Common models

Varieties of welding machines for cars are presented by a variety of manufacturers. Attention should be paid to the following popular brands:

• Brima PDG-240D;
• Shyuan MIG-300;
• "Resanta" SAIPA-220;
• INTERTOOL DT-4319;
• "Temp" PDU-1.8-UZ-220.

This article describes the types of welding machines. The characteristics, as can be seen, vary significantly.

We can say that in the recent century, one of the most cherished desires of any craftsman closely associated with machine repair or any other metalworking was to have a welding machine at hand. Let it be a homemade transformer model, but this equipment, in addition to its untold benefits, has always instilled pride in its owner. Now, with the high pace of technology development, the shelves of electrical equipment stores are filled with various models of welding machines, differing in purpose, functions, and, of course, price. And for those who are faced with the choice of an RDS welding machine for domestic needs or for production, the first question that arises is “What to choose an inverter or transformer welder?”

Therefore, in this article we will present some of the pros and cons of these devices, so that you can clearly determine which type of device you need - an inverter or a transformer. We warn you that in this material we will talk exclusively about machines for manual arc welding.

Differences between the welding process of an inverter and a transformer

Let's look at the welding process itself and the difference between an inverter and a transformer in this matter. And here, the main drawback of conventional transformers is the insufficient arc stability along with low mode stability, which completely depends on the fluctuations of the electrical network. Welding inverters have an undeniable advantage here, since inverter sources provide a stabilized constant welding current, which does not depend on fluctuations in the input voltage and thus provides a more stable arc and minimal metal spatter during welding. A more technologically savvy inverter is distinguished from a transformer by at least the presence of smooth adjustment of the welding current, not to mention the presence of special functions that are present in the arsenal even of a budget model, such as Hot-Start, Anti-Sticking, Arc-Force, etc.

In addition to all of the above, the welding inverter consumes much less electricity and can operate from autonomous power sources - gasoline and diesel electric generators (on our website you can familiarize yourself with the current models of generators). For example, the power consumption of an inverter when operating with an electrode with a diameter of 3 mm is equivalent to the consumption of two electric kettles, which is well within household standards. Based on all of the above, welding with an inverter is much more profitable, more enjoyable, and most importantly easier than with a transformer.

Weight and dimensions

An important advantage of a welding inverter over a transformer is its light weight and fairly small dimensions. All this becomes possible due to an increase in the voltage frequency: after all, when the frequency increases by 1000 times, the size of the transformer decreases ten times. For some inverter models, the transformer itself is smaller than a cigarette pack; The main mass is occupied by the radiator. It is not surprising that such an inverter can be easily hung on the shoulder and cooked in hard-to-reach places: with a weight of less than 4 kilograms, some inverter models make it easy to work with electrodes with a diameter of even 3-4 mm (for example, the inverter of the domestic brand Svarog ARC 200 Easy). And again, in the competition between the two types of equipment, the inverter wins; as they say, you can’t carry a 40-kilogram transformer on your shoulder.

Money issue

Let's face it, transformers are often still two or more times cheaper than inverters. And repairing transformers in the post-Soviet space is usually cheaper. However, from the experience of European colleagues, interesting data can be drawn: every 1000 Euro of welding cost for manual arc welding can be divided into the following cost categories:

• 35% wages for welders
• 35% cost of electrodes
• 28% electricity cost
• And only 2% equipment and accessories (cost of the equipment, cables, etc.)

As you can see, the cost of welding equipment only slightly affects the overall cost of welding work. In this regard, it becomes profitable to buy equipment that uses the latest developments: even with a higher cost of the inverter, reducing energy costs in the future gives a total saving of the total cost of welding work by 5-8% percent!

Let's sum it up

Apparently, modern welding inverters are indeed more practical, more economical, and most importantly, more profitable to use in contrast to classic transformers. However, it is important to remember that the guarantee of high-quality welding largely depends not on “sophisticated” equipment, but on the skills and training of the master, namely the person!

Welding inverters..Sometimes they are mistakenly called invectors, or even inverters.. How often do we hear this phrase, but how are inverters fundamentally different from conventional transformer welding?

Inverter-type welding machines are designed for manual electric arc welding of metals and metal structures made of black steel. Data invertersThey are characterized by convenient use during operation, ease of maintenance and portable dimensions. Moreover, due to their design, inverters do not “waste” the network, and can operate in unstable network conditions.

A welding inverter is usually equipped with a rectifier, a converter, a transformer, an output rectifier and a control circuit.

First, a little theory. The operating principle of a welding inverter is based on one of the laws of electrical engineering, which states: The higher the voltage frequency, the smaller the overall dimensions and weight of the transformer must be to transmit the same amount of energy. So, when the frequency of the electric current increases by 1000 times, the dimensions decrease by 10 times. Active developments in the field of inverter welding began at the beginning of the 20th century, and they acquired a recognizable appearance starting in the 90s of the last century, when special power transistors began to be actively introduced. With their help, it was possible to raise the frequency of the current to great heights, while reducing the size of the devices.

For example, the TSS Sai-200 welding inverter operates at a frequency of 100 kHz while weighing only 7 kg. For comparison, for conventional machines the characteristic showing the ratio of welding current to the weight of the machine ranges from 1-1.5 A/kg, while for modern inverters this value has already reached 4–5 A/kg/

Welding inverters have gained leadership positions in the welding equipment market due to their excellent technical characteristics, ease of transportation and reliability during operation. The most important advantages of inverters are:

- Low weight of welding equipment;

- Low power consumption; (relative to transformer welding machines)

- The area of ​​spark splashing during welding has been reduced;

- Ability to regulate the strength of the welding current;

- Possibility of operation from the moment of switching on;

- High quality weld.

Moreover,inverter - This is the safest and easiest-to-use device among all devices designed for welding a variety of metals.

When working with inverters, it is enough to follow a few simple recommendations, following which you will significantly extend the life of your welding machine:

- Do not place the inverter in dusty areas. When working outdoors, place it on a stand to prevent dust from entering.

- During operation, do not overload the inverters. The operating instructions for each device indicate a special “PV” characteristic. It shows what percentage of the time the inverter can operate in maximum mode. This parameter is usually calculated for 10 minutes.

- After finishing the welding work, let the inverter cool down a little. When the power is turned off, the fan cooling the radio components stops, and if it is turned off immediately, some elements of the circuit may burn out and fail.

Among novice welders who become familiar with the types of joining metals with an electric arc, the question arises: which is better, a transformer or an inverter? To choose the right device for yourself, it is worth understanding their design and differences, as well as the advantages and disadvantages. The future use of the equipment (the most frequent specific types of work and the time of their execution) also plays a big role. Below are the answers to each point in detail.

The most accessible means for electric arc welding is a transformer. A good device is capable of connecting metal elements with a thickness of 1.5 to 30 mm. It can also be used for cutting steel when the temperature from the propane-oxygen flame is not enough.

The welding transformer has a simple structure, including two windings. The first receives alternating voltage from an outlet or panel. The devices can be designed for both single-phase and three-phase networks. For this reason they come in large and small sizes. Thanks to electromagnetic induction, the current (A) increases significantly and the voltage (V) ) decreases. A current of 80 to 500 A is generated on the secondary winding. There are also more powerful models. The maximum for a transformer is 48 V at idle speed. This makes it safe to use when the welder comes into contact with the product being worked on.

This allows you to weld carbon steel, aluminum, and cast iron. Adjusting the current strength in large models is done by removing or bringing the windings closer. Small devices use step switching, cutting off part of the winding and reducing the voltage path.

Equipment advantages

Among the advantages of transformers, the following stand out:

• simple device and the ability to make repairs yourself;
• cheap cost of components;
• alternating current holds the arc well in a humid environment, so when welding pipes with leaking water, it is easier to weld;
• the ability to work as a transformer with electrodes with a diameter of 1.6 to 7 mm (large devices);
• high current strength (in portable models up to 300 A, and in stationary models more than 500 A), allowing you to weld thick metal;
• relatively cheap cost of store versions.

Disadvantages of equipment

The disadvantages of this welding equipment include:

• Step adjustment in small models. This does not allow you to accurately adjust the device to a specific metal thickness. For example, in mode “4” the current strength is not enough for full penetration, and in mode “5” burns already appear. To overcome the situation, welders use a spring located between the product and the ground cable, which creates additional resistance and reduces the current.
• Welding with a transformer is characterized by a stronger hum. This noise can become annoying to the welder throughout the day. To reduce its impact, the device should be placed away from the work site, but this requires longer cables.
• Spattering of molten metal occurs to a significant extent, which leads to excessive consumption of electrodes.
• Most machines can only lower the current to a certain value, usually around 80 A. This creates difficulties when welding thin sheet iron. In such situations, additional resistance must be used.

Features of inverters

The welding inverter is a more “advanced” device that has gained popularity recently. It significantly increases the frequency of the incoming voltage and converts it into direct current. This is achieved through the operation of a transformer in combination with capacitors, key transistors and diodes. Thanks to modern technologies, it was possible to achieve the minimum dimensions of the device, allowing them to be hung on the shoulder and work for a long time.

Equipment advantages

Inverters have the following advantages:

• thanks to direct current, there is less metal spattering, which saves consumables;
• the surface of the seam is smoother with fine scales;
• arc burning is calm and stable;
• the inverter can weld not only carbon steel, but also stainless steel and aluminum;
• the device supports work with electrodes with a diameter from 1.6 to 5 mm;
• compact models that fit into a small suitcase;
• current settings occur smoothly, which allows you to set any required value;
• thanks to the minimum current value of 20 A, it is possible to work with thin parts without additional resistance;
• energy savings (all inverters operate from 220V, and power consumption is 6-9 kW);
• Some devices are equipped with additional functions that make it easier to ignite the electrode and prevent it from sticking to the surface.

Cons of inverters

This equipment has few disadvantages. One of them is the higher cost relative to the transformer. But the device is completely worth the money. In the event of a breakdown, repairs are more expensive due to the numerous components. The complex electrical circuit makes it difficult to troubleshoot the problem yourself.

Semi-automatic machines based on transformers and inverters

In the creation of semi-automatic machines, a transformer or inverter is used as the main source of welding current, which melts the fed wire in a shielding gas environment. Their application has the following capabilities:

• A semi-automatic transformer is more suitable for welding carbon steel. Most often they are used in car body repair work. This is a cheap and reliable way to weld cracks in thin metal. The large size of the equipment allows it to be used in a workshop or workshop. The movement is carried out on a small trolley, where a gas cylinder is placed.
• The inverter semi-automatic machine has small dimensions and can be carried by hand, provided it has a long gas hose. Constant voltage makes it possible to weld carbon steel, stainless steel and aluminum (when installing wire of the appropriate composition). Although spattering on alloy metals is high, the welds are of high quality.

How to choose a device

The cost of transformers and inverters differs. But when choosing, it is necessary to proceed mainly not from the price of the equipment, but from future use. The transformer is perfect for personal use in the country or in a private house. They can be used to repair a fence, build a greenhouse in the spring, or weld a canopy that has fallen off a gate. Semi-automatic machines based on transformers are suitable for repair work on car bodies in your own garage.

An inverter is worth buying if you plan to do frequent welding work. It can be:

• heating welding;
• water supply;
• production of stainless steel containers;
• creation of new doors and gates.

The seams on such products will be of higher quality and more beautiful. Subsequent surface treatment is also reduced.

A semi-automatic machine based on an inverter can be purchased for regular work on the manufacture of tanks (for water, fuel, chemical media), filters, welding of stainless metals, or for a large service station.

Choosing welding equipment is easy when you understand its features and advantages for future work. It would be good if, before purchasing, you had the opportunity to cook with both devices and compare the quality of the result and your own feelings about ease of use.