Semi-automatic welding in a protective gas environment is widely used in body repair at specialized service stations, during construction and installation work and many other areas of production.
Using a semi-automatic welding machine, you can get a high-quality, durable seam, even when connecting sheets of metal of different thicknesses or when the surfaces are not accurately adjusted to each other.
Using spot welding in a gas environment, it is possible to make a one-sided connection in cases where access to another part is difficult or impossible. The quality of the connecting points is not reduced, even if there are air gaps between the sheets.
The popularity of this method is explained by a number of advantages obtained from its use:
- A narrow heating zone, due to which neighboring parts receive minimal thermal impact, and the deformation of parts is very insignificant.
- The destruction of paint coating in the near-welding zone is reduced and there is no need for thermal insulation of this zone.
- Rapid melting of the electrode contributes to an increase in the speed of work.
Looking for a suitable welding machine? Read about the different types and designs of welding machines.
And if you just need to firmly connect several small parts, cold welding will suffice. This article describes how to work with cold welding at home.
Which company's semi-automatic welding machine is better to choose?
Due to the wide variety of brands of such complex technical equipment, the buyer's choice can be difficult. Experts recommend taking into account the reputation, experience of manufacturers, and what advantages they have that set them apart from their competitors. In the domestic market, the greatest demand is observed among the following companies:
- Wester is a trademark that belongs to the group. The main production is located in China. Under this name, auto tools, welding machines, pneumatics, household and semi-professional equipment for construction and repair work are presented on the Russian market. Demand is observed not only in Russia, but also in many European countries.
- Aurora is a Russian company that represents high quality equipment with a minimum warranty period of 2 years or more. Welding equipment is assembled in China. In addition, the range is constantly updated with new models of compressors, generators, mini-washers, and pumps.
- Resanta is a young Latvian company that produces high-quality electrical equipment at low prices. On the Russian market you can see a wide range, among which MAG/MIG semi-automatic welding machines will be presented in dozens of varieties in terms of power and other parameters.
- Elitech is a Russian company that entered the market in 2008. Despite the short production period, it has already mastered the production of a wide range of high-quality equipment with affordable price tags. The main factories are located in China, where the products are also in demand.
- Fubag is a German company operating since 2007. Most of the products are welding equipment and related products with good technical characteristics and average prices. Today Fubag has become a partner for most professionals.
- FoxWeld is a large-scale manufacturing and trading company that sells electric and gas welding equipment assembled from consumables of Asian and European origin. Being a Russian company, cooperation is carried out only with branded suppliers of parts, components, and raw materials.
- BlueWeld is an Italian manufacturer offering various welding machines, components, accessories, and branded accessories for them. The company has been operating since 1963, since then the company has achieved a high rate of sales growth on the Russian market, and it has been able to improve the quality and characteristics of its products thanks to its own scientific laboratory.
- Svarog is a Russian manufacturer that introduced equipment for repairs and construction work to the market. All products were released subsequently in cooperation with the Chinese company Shenzhen Jasic Technology.
- Brima is one of the oldest German companies presenting welding equipment on the Russian market. Work experience has exceeded 50 years. You can work with such devices even if you have no experience, since each unit is reliable and multifunctional.
- Forsazh is a trademark owned by the Russian company. Over 20 years of fruitful work, the company has established customer service and introduced advanced functions, which made it possible to create professional-level tools. Inverter welding machines are in greatest demand.
Which semi-automatic welding machine is better to choose?
There is a huge selection of welding equipment on sale. You can choose the solution that suits you in terms of price, quality, and set of functions. When compiling the rating, cost, consumer properties, and prevalence of models were taken into account. There are options for household, professional and universal use.
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Rating of semi-automatic welding machines
Buying a reliable semi-automatic welding machine for your home, cottage, car, construction or repair work is not so easy. Even having decided on the manufacturer, the search circle will narrow down to several dozen models. Therefore, you can rely on the criteria by which experts, welders, and other specialists chose the leaders of 2021. In total, over a hundred nominees were considered, after which the top ten were determined based on several indicators:
- Power and voltage range during operation;
- Reproducible technologies, e.g. MIG/MAG, TIG, MMA;
- Current range, constant switching factor;
- Purpose of the equipment;
- Intensity of work cycles;
- Ease of control;
- Dimensions, weight, mobility;
- Endurance of difficult working conditions;
- Complete set, cord length.
An indicator of reliability can be considered a warranty from the manufacturer; the higher it is, the longer the expected service life. During the analysis of each nominee, experts took into account reviews from craftsmen, buyers, and real experience in using such tools. It was possible to discard unsuitable models thanks to statistics on repairs and complaints about breakdowns.
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What to look for when choosing a semi-automatic welding machine
The main operating characteristics of the semi-automatic welding machine can be found in the description and instructions. They need to be taken into account in full, since each point is equally important. Parameters to be taken into account when choosing:
1 Maximum current – in combination with the constant switching factor. It determines the areas of application of the semi-automatic device, as well as the so-called safety margin. There are also confusions with welding current. There is simply no such adjustment on semi-automatic machines - only adjustment of the burner voltage is available. The lower the constant switching factor, the more often you will have to pause during operation.
2 Power and range of operating voltages are important when you plan to power the semi-automatic device from a weak electrical network in the private sector or garage. The lower the power consumed by the device, the less voltage drops will occur during operation. Accordingly, the lower the threshold of the voltage range, the higher the drawdown the semi-automatic device will maintain without failures in operation.
3 The ability to change polarity is an important point when welding flux-cored wire. The functionality of the device and the list of works that can be performed depend on this moment.
4 Availability of additional modes - they expand the functionality of the installations, although they increase the price. Typically, semi-automatic machines come with an MMA mode - manual arc welding.
Before making a purchase, decide on the thickness, types of materials to be welded, dimensions of the objects to be welded, and the length of the seams. The intensity of use of a semi-automatic device is also important, as are the capabilities of the electrical network (home, country).
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Types of semi-automatic welding machines
Household
These are simple models with low power, which are affordable and convenient for doing work in the country or in the garage.
With their help, you can weld a water tank or fuel container, put a patch on a car body, or make your own gate. Usually every reputable owner in a village or small town has such a device.
Advantages:
- easy to maintain and repair yourself;
- simple device;
- Suitable for a variety of yard work;
- suitable for beginners;
- a light weight;
- compact dimensions;
- Efficiency 30-50%.
Flaws:
- low power;
- low indicators of maximum current strength;
- short cable channel.
Semi-professional
This type of device has increased power, a larger range of settings and expanded capabilities for creating metal structures. They are used for private workshops or service stations, where semi-automatic machines work for 4-6 hours every day.
Advantages:
- high build quality;
- varying degrees of protection;
- power from 5 to 7 kW;
- various input voltage options;
- high maximum current strength;
- Efficiency 60-70%;
- cable length 2-3 m.
Flaws:
- more expensive spare parts;
- heavy weight;
- It is not always possible to lower the current to 10-20 A.
Professional
Such devices are characterized by voluminous bodies and large mass. Their wire feed mechanism and cable channel are designed to accommodate different diameters, which allows welding both thin metals of car bodies and containers, and thick steel of flanges and channels. They are used in industries from mechanical engineering to the creation of water treatment systems.
Advantages:
- high power;
- different cable lengths;
- maximum ampere setting up to 500 A;
- good degree of protection;
- there are models with trolleys;
- Efficiency 80-100%;
- idle speed 50-80 V.
Flaws:
- large mass;
- often powered only from 380 V.
Solaris MULTIMIG-225
The first semi-automatic machine in our rating is the MULTIMIG-225 model from the Solaris brand. The device is not cheap, but it boasts excellent technical characteristics. The semi-automatic machine produces an honest 220 Amps when welding in MIG mode and 200 Amps when welding in MMA mode. This is enough to perform most welding work in a country house or small workshop.
MULTIMIG-225 works perfectly even with unstable or low voltage, which is very important when welding in the country. The heart of the device is modern IGBT transistors, thanks to which the semi-automatic machine can boast of great functionality. For example, the machine is capable of not only MMA and MIG welding, but also spot welding under certain settings. In short, a universal assistant in everyday life and during repairs.
The device comes with a burner with a Euro connector. The body has a convenient metal carrying handle. The body itself is also made of metal and is resistant to corrosion.
Below is one of the real reviews from a welder:
I spent a long time choosing a welding machine and noticed that my neighbor had this exact model. I used it a couple of times and was pleased with the results. I bought myself exactly the same Solaris. I am 100% confident in him! The seams turn out neat, just as needed. The metal does not spatter, the arc burns well. I use it and enjoy the work.
Area of use
Semi-automatic devices have wide practical applications. They are mainly used:
- in various industries: mechanical engineering, automotive, shipbuilding;
- in the process of constructing bridges and other massive metal structures;
- in the production process of cranes, drilling rigs;
- on construction sites;
- in repair shops for cars, special equipment and other vehicles;
- low-power devices are often used in everyday life for repair and construction work.
Spark PowerARC 230
The review of inverter-type semi-automatic welding machines is supplemented by a popular model from the Spark brand, namely PowerARC 230. This semi-automatic machine copes well with welding in a shielding gas environment and with welding without gas using flux-cored wire. The device operates with small voltage drops and produces up to 230 Amperes. For welding, you can use wire with a diameter of up to 1 mm.
MIG – unsurpassed welding quality and easy operation
Russian-made inverter semi-automatic welding machines with digital control for aluminum welding occupy a leading position in sales. You can choose which one is better and buy this equipment on our website.
The simplest and most common type of permanent connection of metals is electric arc welding. The development of technology has led to the improvement of equipment, which in turn has made it possible to create an inverter semi-automatic welding machine, which has a number of advantages over traditional units. But about the advantages a little later, but for now you should understand
ELAND MIG-130
The rating of semi-automatic welding machines will be incomplete if we do not add an ultra-budget model for those who are on a budget. ELAND MIG-130 is a standard budget Chinese semi-automatic, of which you can find plenty in any specialized store. However, this model is quite reliable and gets the job done.
The device requires 220V for power supply, so it is not suitable for welding in low voltage conditions. According to the manufacturer, the maximum current is 130 Amperes, which seems to be true. You can cook for no longer than 5 minutes without a break. The device weighs a little less than 20 kg, so be prepared for that. Overall, the ELAND MIG-130 is a good option for the price. It does not have any special characteristics, but it works stably and is inexpensive. What else does a beginner or summer resident need?
Feedback from a welder:
I spent a long time choosing among different welding machines. In the end I bought this one. It was necessary to digest the arches of the car. I read in reviews that the metal spatters a lot when welding, but everything was fine for me. I think it depends on the quality of the wire and the correct settings of the device. Cook stainless steel without any questions at all. For the money, this is a decent option for the home and small jobs.
DGM DUOMIG-250E
DGM DUOMIG-250E is an inverter-type semi-automatic welding machine designed for MMA and MIG welding. It cooks without problems both with a covered electrode and in a protective gas environment. Suitable for working with different types of steel and for body work. The device has a convenient digital display on which everything is clearly visible. The semi-automatic machine produces up to 230 Amperes and copes with welding thick metals.
Feedback from a welder:
Great device! 8 out of 10. I bought this semi-automatic 5 years ago, I cooked a lot and often, I didn’t regret it. We had to do everything. And he cooked the gates, and he cooked the bodies. Everything is working as it should. At the same time, sometimes I did not have the wire of the required diameter, and I used a thin one, plus I reinforced the structure with a channel. In the end, everything is fine, no complaints. I am very pleased with the device; in all the years of use there have been no problems. The only negative: sometimes the button on the sleeve gets stuck, but this is not critical after five years of use.
AuroraPRO Overman 200
Another popular welding machine from the Aurora brand in our rating. The Overman 200 is designed for MIG and MAG gas shielded welding. There is also a “NO GAS” mode, you can weld with cored wire. The welder can regulate the welding current, voltage, adjust the inductance, penetration depth and monitor the shape of the bead.
Also, this model works perfectly at reduced voltage from 140V and above. Consumes about 6 kW. If you want to connect this device to a generator, then choose a generator with a power of 8 kVA or more. The Overman 200 produces an honest 200 Amps. The device is very compact and relatively lightweight, weighing no more than 15 kg.
Feedback from a welder:
The device is very good. Suitable for both home and work. All stated characteristics are completely true. The efficiency is high, the device does not overheat, you can cook for a long time. If you are fully equipped, you can cook aluminum with high quality. You can adjust the inductance and heat the carbon dioxide. The build quality is excellent.
WATT CombiMIG 250
Another semi-automatic welding machine on our list is the budget WATT MMA 200. Unfortunately, it is not easy to find on sale now. But it is still available in some online stores.
The device is designed for welding in MIG/MAG mode, and does the job well. There is also the possibility of conventional MMA welding with a coated electrode. The power supply requires a voltage of 220V, but as practice shows, it works great even with small drawdowns. It produces up to 230 Amps, which is not enough for a practicing welder, but just right for a beginner.
This welding machine is very compact, weighs little, and has a convenient handle for carrying. The body of the device is quite strong and durable, but we still recommend treating it with some attention. The arc ignites easily and burns stably. The efficiency is high, you can cook for a long time.
Reviews from welders:
The device cooks excellently, despite its modest price. Any type of steel can be welded. During the entire period of use, the semiautomatic device never overheated, which surprised me. The kit includes cables and a holder for electrodes. They are of good quality and suitable for a beginner. For 2 years of work, no complaints.
A very good device for the money. I have been using it for 5 years, the flight is normal. Never let me down. Cooks even at low voltage.
MIKKELI MIG/MMA-200E
An inexpensive inverter semi-automatic device that is rarely talked about. But in vain. This welder can be found on sale without any problems. For some craftsmen, this is the best semi-automatic welding machine in its class.
The device is designed for manual arc welding, as well as for welding in MIG/MAG modes. It operates from a regular power supply and does not require special conditions to power it. Produces from 40 to 200 Amps of welding current, this is enough for most household tasks. Works without interruption for 60% of the entire welding cycle. It's not much, but it's enough for a summer house or home.
Welding with electrodes with a diameter from 1.6 mm to 4 mm is possible. For welding wire, use material with a diameter of 0.6 to 1 mm. The wire feed speed can be adjusted from 21 to 13 meters per minute.
The weight of the device does not exceed 16 kg. The dimensions are compact and can be transported without problems.
When welding at low current, the arc is stable and continuous; you can work with thin sheets of low-carbon, stainless and alloy steel. At the same time, the quality of the seams will remain excellent for this class of devices. The device does not spark, the arc does not “walk”, the weld pool is homogeneous. Overall, this model is great for home work or a small workshop.
Semi-automatic inverter welding machines with wire thickness 0.6-1.2 mm - metal thickness 1.0-8.0 mm
Inverter semi-automatic machines designed for metal thickness up to 8 mm are classified as professional devices. Their current strength varies from 180 to 250 A. But power supply from 220 V allows them to be used at home or in a private workshop. Their power is already significantly higher than household semi-automatic machines and ranges from 5 to 10 kW. The on-time at maximum current is in the range of 60-80%, which is convenient for long-term operation.
This rating of the best inverter-type semi-automatic welding machines includes models capable of working with wire with a thickness of 0.6-1.2 mm. Changing the thickness of the additive allows you to weld both thin and thick steel and perform surfacing. But for this you will have to change the cable channel, as well as the burner mouthpiece.
Most models are capable of manual arc welding with coated electrodes, making it easier to access tight spaces or make cuts.
| Aurora Overman 180 | Svarog REAL MIG 200 | Resanta SAIPA-200 | |||||||
| Welding current (MIG/MAG), A | 40 — 175 | 30 — 200 | 30 — 200 | ||||||
| Input voltage, V | 187 — 253 | 160 — 270 | 198 — 242 | ||||||
| Open circuit voltage, V | 42 | 60 | 80 | ||||||
| Operating voltage, V | 16 — 22,50 | 15,50 — 26,40 | — | ||||||
| power, kWt | 4,70 | 7,7 | 5.5 | ||||||
| Duration of switching on at maximum current, % | 60 | 60 | 70 | ||||||
Aurora Overman 180
This is one of the most reliable inverter-type semi-automatic machines designed only for MIG welding. The vertical narrow body is convenient to place in limited space. The current strength is set from 40 to 175 A, both according to the passport data and in fact.
+ Pros of Aurora Overman 180
- The torch sleeve has a swivel joint, so when twisting, no loops are created - the wire feeds unhindered.
- There is a function for separate wire drawing without gas supply, which saves consumption when changing diameters frequently.
- Separate output for heating the gas mixture at 36 V.
- Thick power cable 2.5 mm2.
- High-quality crocodile and long cable weighing 3 m.
- A 5 kg reel fits - you can weld for a long time without being distracted by rearranging consumables.
- The semi-automatic welds aluminum, provided that pure argon is connected.
— Cons of Aurora Overman 180
- For transportation to the place of work, a trolley is required - the weight of the device is 15 kg.
- It is difficult to find commercially available rollers with 0.6 mm grooves.
- The nozzle is made of cheap metal and is constantly clogged with splashes.
- Doesn't work well against rust - requires cleaning to shiny metal.
- Top opening of the hatch for changing equipment.
- The 1 kg reel is not fixed - you will have to buy a larger one even for short jobs.
Conclusion. Semi-automatic is the best for constant use in the open air, outdoor objects and in field conditions. Its temperature range is from -20 to + 50 degrees. Even a gasoline generator can produce a power of 4.7 kW, so work can be done in places not connected to power supply.
Svarog REAL MIG 200
Professional inverter semi-automatic with the ability to weld in MIG mode at a current of 200 A. For thin iron, the current is reduced to 30 A. The power supply range is 160-270 V. The wire is installed from 0.6 to 1.0 mm through the side hatch. There is a second MMA mode with a welding current of 10-160 A.
+ Pros Svarog REAL MIG 200
- Excellent welds are obtained in pure argon.
- There is a polarity change function for cored wire welding.
- Withstands network drawdowns up to 160 V and still cooks, but the maximum current decreases proportionally.
- It can cook aluminum perfectly without even changing the cable channel in the burner to Teflon.
- Durable housing with protective rubber pads.
- Opening the hatch to change the spool to the side, rather than up, is much more convenient - it does not block the view when installing the wire into the feeder.
- Reliable burner that can withstand prolonged operation at high currents.
- Gas connection hose included with clamps.
— Cons of Svarog REAL MIG 200
- The wire feeder makes loud noises when operating (namely the electric motor itself).
- The kit does not include an electrode holder, although the semi-automatic device has such a mode.
- Your hands get tired quickly if you have to frequently carry it around the workplace.
- There is not enough display for easy setup.
- There is an inductance adjustment to influence the penetration depth, but it does not work well.
Conclusion. Thanks to a power of 7.7 kW and inverter technology, the semi-automatic machine is capable of melting a large thickness of metal at a current of 200 A. This model is best for regular welding of channels, thick pipes for metal structures, racks, and supports. It is best used at a construction site or in the manufacture of gazebos and large greenhouses.
SVAROG REAL MIG 200
Russian semi-automatic welding machines are also worthy of the attention of welders. In this rating, we decided to talk about one excellent model from Svarog - REAL MIG 200. This is a well-known and popular device that has long established itself as a good option for a summer house and workshop.
With this machine you can easily weld aluminum and stainless steel, carry out MMA and MIG/MAG welding. The built-in wire feeder is reliable and easy to use. It can be used to run wire. The arc burns stably even with significant voltage drops.
MMA and MIG/MAG modes work at 5 plus. To cook using the MMA method, you need to connect an electrode holder to the device. The maximum current is 160 Amperes. This is not enough for serious work, but it is enough for a home craftsman. For welding, you can use electrodes with a diameter of up to 4 mm, so you can weld even thick metal.
But this device is at its best in MIG/MAG mode. You can weld all types of metals: ferrous, non-ferrous, various types of steel. You can set the welding current up to 200 Amps, which is enough even for a small workshop. The penetrations are deep, there are no defects. The device operates very stably and is not afraid of voltage surges.
Control panel
Semi-professional and semi-automatic MIG welding inverter, depending on the model, can have smooth (for professional use) and fixed (for domestic use) welding current adjustment:
- Smooth adjustment requires more skill and attention, but it makes it possible to set those current parameters that are most preferable for this type of work.
- fixing the adjusting knob (the more positions on the scale, the better) allows you to quickly select the desired value and not worry that it will go astray during operation.
MIG units are equipped with a digital display, which allows you to monitor the installation during work.
TOP 5 best semi-automatic welding machines by price/quality for 2022
Semi-automatic welding machines are often chosen for domestic use, as they not only have the necessary technical characteristics, but also an acceptable cost.
SPECIAL MAG-170 INVERTOR
This model of welding inverter is designed for semi-automatic welding at
home .
The device is single-phase, so it can be connected to a household power supply without fear of voltage drop. The output current is constant, and the open circuit voltage of 56 V allows you to work with metals of different types and thicknesses.
The device is considered universal, as it allows you to weld metals with both coated electrodes and wire with a diameter of 0.60 to 0.80 mm.
The device is easy to use and easy to start, as it has a hot start function.
Thanks to this, even beginners will be able to carry out welding work, especially since all the nuances of the work are described in detail in the user manual.
Specifications:
- weight 9.8 kg;
- dimensions (W/H/D) 285x290x395 mm;
- power 6.40 kW.
pros
- light weight makes transportation easier;
- convenient storage due to compact dimensions;
- affordable cost;
- suitable for electrode and wire welding;
- allows for high-quality welding of metals of different thicknesses.
Minuses
- mask from the kit is of low quality;
- poor quality ground cable.
Wester MIG 140i
An inexpensive, but quite functional semi-automatic welding machine is specially designed for
domestic use, but with its help you can perform other work in a small auto repair shop .
The device is universal, as it allows you to obtain a high-quality weld using both manual arc and semi-automatic methods using electrode wire.
Constant output current and open circuit voltage of 55 V allows you to work with different types of steel, aluminum of different thicknesses and other metals and alloys.
You can start working immediately after purchasing the device, since everything you need is provided with the device itself: a torch, a cable with an electrode holder, a brush-hammer, a welding shield, steel welding wire and a contact tip.
Even beginners will be able to work with a semi-automatic welding machine, because all the working nuances are described in detail in the instructions.
Specifications:
- weight 9 kg;
- electrode diameter 1.60 mm;
- power 4.70 kW.
pros
- optimal price/quality ratio;
- ideal for use at home, in the garage or small car service;
- suitable for different types of welding;
- extended equipment;
- allows you to get an even and high-quality seam.
Minuses
- poor quality mask included;
- short cable.
Svarog REAL MIG 200 (N24002N) BLACK
Some users may find the price of this welding machine too high, but it is
fully compensated by its functionality and well-thought-out technical characteristics .
Principle of operation
The operation of MIG/MAG inverters is distinguished by its simplicity. The fusible electrode, using a special mechanism, is fed into the welding zone through the torch. An electric current is applied to the wire through a metal tip, resulting in an arc with an area of very high temperature. As a result, the electrode melts, ensuring the formation of a seam at the junction of the welded parts. The seam is formed both by the molten wire and by the melting metal of the parts being welded.
To prevent oxidation of the metal in the welding area and to obtain a weld of higher quality and strength, gas is supplied to the welding zone. It “blows” oxygen molecules out of the welding zone, protecting the melting medium from oxidation reactions. Thanks to the automatic supply of the electrode, a constant arc length is maintained and an even, smooth seam is ensured.
In addition to traditional welding of parts, MIG/MAG machines can be used for soldering products made from stainless steel, low-carbon steels, copper alloys and iron alloys.
The best professional semi-automatic welding machines
This section presents the TOP professional semi-automatic welding machines, which are adapted for long-term uninterrupted performance of work operations. Equipment in this category has the following parameters:
- stabilized current up to 220 A or more;
- duty cycle – from 50%;
- power more than 6 kW;
- built-in wheels for moving equipment;
- long cables;
- extended range of settings.
Which semi-automatic welding machine to choose is determined after clarifying personal requirements. In this case, special attention should be paid to reliability. A certain increase in investment is justified by the high quality of welded joints and long service life.
Fubag INMIG 200 SYN LCD (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)
This is the best semi-automatic machine in combination of price and quality. The equipment is equipped with automated functions and modes that greatly simplify the creation of high-quality welded joints. Synergic control technology optimizes settings without user intervention, taking into account the characteristics of the technological process. Digital display simplifies control operations. The universal semi-automatic model is suitable for working with thin and thick workpieces.
Pros:
- the best professional semi-automatic;
- gas hose length – 3 m;
- copper connecting wires;
- efficient cooling system;
- long service life.
Minuses:
- To use wire with a diameter of 6 mm, you need to purchase a special roller.
Aurora SPEEDWAY 200 (MIG/MAG, MMA)
The professional semi-automatic welding machine is created using reliable components and components. Combined with responsible assembly, this approach ensures long-term preservation of good operating parameters over a long period of time under intensive use. The electronic control unit maintains the current with high precision. Smooth wire feed with adjustable speed performs its functions without failure. When performing work operations, one should not forget about the duration of breaks, which should be at least 40% of the total cycle duration.
Pros:
- one of the best semi-automatic welding machines in terms of reliability;
- good energy efficiency indicators;
- ease of setup;
- flawless functionality of the wire feed system;
- convenient indication of modes;
- easy setup.
Minuses:
- The minimum welding current of 40 A causes difficulties when welding thin sheets.
Cedar MIG-250GW (MIG/MAG, MMA)
Such equipment is purchased for organizing professional activities. The semi-automatic device is connected to a three-phase 380 V network and consumes up to 9.5 kW of power. The external reel is designed to install European standard D300 reels. With this equipment, long work operations can be completed without unnecessary delays. Two digital displays simplify setup and operational control.
Pros:
- welding current – up to 250 A;
- ability to work with thick wire (1.2 mm);
- outer large bobbin;
- protection of corner structural elements with special overlays.
Minuses:
- weight – 23kg.
Svarog PRO MIG 200 (N229) (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)
This universal technique is suitable for high-quality reproduction of manual and semi-automatic welding modes. The extended current range allows you to correctly create connections between thin and thick workpieces. Anti-stick, arc force and other useful functions make it easier to create high-quality seams.
Pros:
- current range starts from 10 A;
- small dimensions and weight;
- ease of transportation;
- excellent set of welding modes;
- professional level of equipment with automation equipment;
- Convenient body design with a large handle and protective pads.
Minuses:
- with significant power consumption, it is necessary to take into account the restrictions on the permissible load of the wiring of a single-phase 220V network.
Summary table of ratings
| Model | Welding current, A | Power, kW*A | Open circuit voltage, V | PV, % | Electrode diameter, mm | Wire diameter, mm | Weight, kg | Wed. price, rub. |
| RESANTA SAIPA-165 | 20-160 | 6 | 46 | 70 | — | 0,6-0,9 | 11,5 | 19390 |
| Fubag IRMIG 160 | 30-160 | 6,2 | 52 | 30 | — | 0,6-0,8 | 11 | 19993 |
| Aurora OVERMAN 160 | 40-160 | 4 | 42 | 60 | — | 0,6-1,0 | 15 | 31700 |
| BISON PS-200 | 30-200 | 6,4 | 60 | 60 | 1,6-5,0 | 0,6-1,0 | 9,3 | 22980 |
| Wert MIG 240 | 30-240 | 5,2 | 55 | 60 | 1,6-5,0 | 0,8-1,0 | 10,8 | 20985 |
| Aurora SPEEDWAY 175 | 10-175 | 4,8 | 56 | 35 | 2,5-5,0 | 0,6-1,0 | 12,8 | 46647 |
| Svarog PRO MIG 200 (N229) | 10-200 | 9 | 53 | 60 | 1,6-5,0 | 0,6-1,0 | 12,5 | 72451 |
| Fubag INMIG 200 SYN LCD | 25-200 | 7,9 | 67 | 60 | 1,6-5,0 | 0,6-1,2 | 15,5 | 55350 |
| Solaris MULTIMIG-245 | 30-240 | 3,8 | 67 | 60 | 1,6-4,0 | 0,6-1,0 | 15,5 | 30810 |
| RESANTA SAIPA-220 Synergy | 15-220 | 9,2 | 65 | 70 | 1,5-5,0 | 0,6-1,0 | 17 | 48790 |
| VIKING MIG 500 DP PRO | 50-500 | 24 | 73,3 | 60 | — | 0,8-1,6 | 41 | 161500 |
| Aurora ULTIMATE 350 | 40-500 | 13 | 50 | 60 | 1,0-6,0 | 0,8-1,2 | 36 | 101500 |
| Kemppi X3 Power Source 400 | 25-400 | 17,6 | 52-57 | 60 | — | 0,8-2,0 | 32 | 161590 |
| ESAB Caddy Mig C200i | 30-200 | 3,9 | 60 | 25 | — | 0,6-1,0 | 11,5 | 138431 |
| Cedar MIG-350GF | 40-350 | 17 | 61 | 60 | 1,6-7,0 | 0,8-1,2 | 37 | 63000 |
The best inexpensive semi-automatic welding machines
Budget equipment is quite reliable, functional and at the same time has an affordable price. Cost savings are achieved through a reduced set of options. If you need a simple unit, we present to your attention 3 inexpensive semi-automatic welding machines.
RESANTA SAIPA-135 (MIG/MAG, MMA)
9.4 Rating Based on customer reviews
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The semi-automatic welding machine from the RESANTA company is well suited for welding using wire in a gas environment and working with piece electrode elements. When processing non-ferrous metals, inert gases are used - helium, argon. If you plan to work with alloy and low-alloy steels, pay attention to the active gas.
The welding device allows you to regulate the current automatically and change the wire feed speed. The optimal diameter of the working part is 0.6-0.8 mm; the pulling mechanism is suitable for placing a reel within 5 kg.
To switch the semi-automatic welding machine to the MMA welding mode, turn on the switch on the panel, then connect the cable with the electric holder (it is included in the kit). The presence of reliable protection guarantees the absence of sheer drops of rain and large particles from falling on the body. Overheating is excluded.
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PROS:
- unpretentiousness in maintenance;
- stable power parameters;
- possibility of using MMA welding;
- polarity settings;
- compactness;
- place for installing the coil;
- low price.
MINUSES:
- modest functionality.
Wester MIG 140i (MIG/MAG, MMA)
9.2 Rating Based on customer reviews
Durability9Quality9.5Price9.5Reliability9Reviews9 class=”wpsm-divider dotted_divider” style=”margin-top: 1px;margin-bottom: 5px;”>
Semi-automatic welding machine of inverter type for welding and depositing metal using electrode consumable wire. Shielding gases or flux-cored wire are used as the working medium. The semi-automatic machine allows for electric arc welding.
The adjustments are smooth and the settings are flexible, which makes operating the device as comfortable as possible. This will allow you to solve problems of any complexity. The current at maximum voltage reaches 60%, this is enough to solve professional problems and quietly implement complex projects. The dimensions are compact, the weight is small, the efficiency is high - due to the use of IGBT inverter technology. Built-in thermal protection will keep the inverter operational in case the maximum permissible temperature values are exceeded. There are convenient light indicators, and there are covers on the case to protect against external factors. Transportation is simple, largely due to the comfortable handle.
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PROS:
- optimal configuration;
- reliable protection;
- presence of light indicators;
- carrying handle;
- Possibility of professional use.
MINUSES:
- No.
Wert MIG 160 (MIG/MAG, MMA)
8.7 Rating Based on customer reviews
Durability8.5Quality9Price8Reliability9Reviews9 class=”wpsm-divider dotted_divider” style=”margin-top: 1px;margin-bottom: 5px;”>
The semi-automatic welding machine from the Wert company is well suited for novice craftsmen and simple tasks. A good choice for servicing your car yourself. One of the most affordable solutions in its category. It is possible to install coils up to 5 kg, which is generally the norm for the group under consideration.
The quality of the manufacturer's equipment is high, the price is reasonable. The wire feed is regulated with current. Jamming is minimal and usually starts when the hose is bent. Overall, the installation is trouble-free. Soft self-defense is suitable for welding. There are no restrictions on the size of parts. If there is a poor power supply or dead wiring, arc ignition may be weak - it is better to use wire. A worthy solution for your money.
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PROS:
- good functionality;
- good reliability;
- availability;
- 5 kg spools.
MINUSES:
- there is no adjustment of wire feed separately from current.
