Improvements in metal welding technologies and equipment have expanded the circle of people performing welding work. If previously this was done exclusively by professionals, today joining metals is also available to amateurs. Responding to their demand, manufacturers have flooded the market with a variety of equipment models. Low cost, varied functionality and a huge range of welding machines do not simplify the choice at all and become a serious obstacle for the inexperienced user.
A detailed analysis of the features of the most popular models will help beginners make the right choice and buy the most suitable option for themselves. This review is aimed at hobbyists who use welding machines for their own purposes. The group of products for commercial use is not considered here. So, we bring to your attention the ten most popular welding inverters in the price range up to $250 as of the beginning of 2022.
Eurolux IWM190 – the most inexpensive welding inverter
As is clear from the subtitle, the main advantage of the model is its low cost. It varies within a wide range of values: from 3.5 to 6.5 thousand rubles, depending on the region of residence. A large share of costs consists of logistics costs, which determines such a significant price range. Naturally, budget models use cheap components and equipment breakdowns are not excluded. To be fair, it should be noted that by that time the inverter will have already returned the money invested in it.
Who might be interested in this offer? The device is specially designed for beginners who plan to master the basics of the profession. It deserves the attention of all users without exception for whom performance is not a determining parameter. Eurolux IWM190 can not be used for a long time without fear of reduction or loss of functionality. The reason for this is the minimum set of technical capabilities of the device. There is also a significant drawback: the holders, clamps and cables included in the kit are of poor quality. Therefore, it is advisable to purchase accessories of the best level of performance.
Advantages
- Adjustment 10 - 190 A.
- Manufactured on the basis of IGBT transistors.
- Welding speed is high.
- Ventilation holes in the case for cooling.
- Operates at a voltage of 160 - 245 V.
ElitechAIS 160SAR
Tests of the inverter also showed good qualities of the tool. The manufacturer takes into account every little detail. In addition to the metal case, the package includes a shoulder strap with a carabiner, thick 3-meter cables and a large mass clamp that easily and reliably clings to structures of any thickness.
The mounting of the board is dense and undoubtedly convenient for subsequent repairs. In terms of its size and weight, this inverter can be considered ideal.
It comes with simple and understandable instructions with a detailed listing of all the technical solutions that distinguish this inverter from the tools of other companies. The generator uses IGBT technology, the two available boards are located horizontally. The fan continues to function for some time after switching off, due to this there is additional cooling of the power elements.
There are anti-stick functions and simplified arc ignition, as well as the ability to reduce the voltage at idle in automatic mode.
Tests showed the availability of welding capabilities with all types of electrodes; during testing, electrodes for welding cast iron products, ruthiol, basic and for welding stainless steel were used. There is also a toggle switch on the panel that allows you to switch the device to TIG mode (argon-arc welding). Special equipment for it should be purchased additionally.
KRÜGER WIK-250/WIK-300 for practicing welders
The KRÜGER WIK-250 and WIK-300 welding machines belong to a generation of modern inverters designed for experienced professionals. Only they will be able to appreciate all the development capabilities of German engineers. In addition to the traditionally high build quality, they are also endowed with excellent reliability. The devices operate reliably even in conditions of unstable power supply. Users have access to the “Anti-stick”, “Arc Force” and “hot start” functions. Thanks to this, all work can be completed at a decent level.
The operating range of the WIK-250 model ranges from 20 to 250 amperes, which makes it possible to perform the vast majority of welding work. If you need more power, then you should pay attention to a more productive analogue - WIK-300, the upper amperage of which is 300A.
Both models of the famous Kruger brand are based on IGBT transistors. This ensures fine-tuning of the equipment and its uninterrupted operation in almost any conditions. The durable case reliably protects the interior from shock, excess moisture and dust. It would not be amiss to recall that the generally accepted quality standards in Germany apply not only to expensive, but also to products that are affordable to customers. Quality assurance has long been the hallmark of German manufacturers.
Among other advantages of the WIK-250 and WIK-300 welding inverters, it is necessary to highlight their small size. The welder will become an indispensable assistant for specialists with a traveling nature of work. This is also facilitated by the relatively small weight - only 5 kg. The price will also please buyers: 5000-6000 rubles. It is acceptable not only for professionals who earn money by welding, but also for beginners taking their first steps in this field. The maximum configuration should also be emphasized. The price of the offer includes powerful cables, a shoulder strap for easy carrying, a hammer brush and a mask. Among the shortcomings, consumers note only the lack of a transport case.
Advantages
- Current adjustment in the range of 20-250A.
- Easy arc start.
- Stabilization of the welding arc during operation.
- Protection against electrode sticking is provided.
- Automatic against short circuit, current or power overload.
- Automatic power and current control.
Inexpensive models (up to 4000 rub.)
Eurolux IWM-190
pros
- Ease
- Compactness
- Convenient power key
- Doesn't get hot when working
- Suitable for three and four
Minuses
- Short cable lengths
From 3,900 ₽
A small, budget model that can surprise even an experienced welder. The “toy” case contains good stuffing, allowing you to comfortably carry out work of varying degrees of complexity. The cables are quite short (no more than a meter), but if you hang the inverter on your shoulder using a special belt, this drawback is somewhat mitigated.
Wert SWI 190
pros
- Easy
- Cooks well
- Cheapness
- Small dimensions
- Easy to set up and use
Minuses
- Short cables
From 3,000 ₽
A good option for occasional home use. Hardly suitable for professional level work. For little money, the user receives a high-quality machine with the ability to weld various surfaces. The power is small: only 3.50 kW. But for beginner and intermediate levels the work is quite enough.
Budget model FUBAG IR 200
Despite its modest cost (on average about 8 thousand rubles), the inverter “gives out” up to 200 amperes. It is advisable to use it not only for welding, but also for cutting metal workpieces. In work, you can use electrodes with a diameter of up to 5 mm, which makes it possible to perform almost all work on a personal plot or in an apartment. The power unit works well even in conditions of unstable power supply.
Among the additional functionality, users will be able to take advantage of anti-sticking, arc force and hot start. All of them will be useful for both beginners and experienced welders. The equipment's inclusion in the rating list was greatly facilitated by good assembly and high-quality components. There are few disadvantages, but they exist. The most significant is the short period of continuous operation - 4 minutes. After this, you need to let the inverter cool for 6 minutes and you can continue. So the unit is not suitable for commercial use.
Advantages
- Light weight.
- Efficient cooling.
- Good seam quality.
- Powerful welding cables.
Master's review
I bought myself such a device for welding work at the dacha. From time to time there was a need to cook something. At first I used my neighbor’s welder, but I quickly got tired of carrying it back and forth.
I decided that it was time to get my own, I chose this model and was pleased. The inverter welds perfectly with three, but it will also handle four. There have been no complaints so far.
MMA VRD 200 from Wester
As opposed to the previous model, the VRD 200 is capable of working without “smoke breaks” in a mode of up to 120 amperes of welding current. In other words, the equipment will be of interest to those who have to work long and often. It is worth considering that this rule does not apply to operations with electrodes with a diameter of 5 mm. In this case, you will have to find time for breaks.
The maximum current is 200A. Additional functions include a standard set typical for most devices of this class: anti-sticking, hot start and arc force. In addition, manufacturers have improved the safety of the design. The terminal voltage is reduced to a minimum level in situations where the inverter is connected to the grid but not in use. And only in case of load the voltage increases sharply to operating parameters.
Based on the operational parameters and cost (approximately 11 thousand rubles), the Wester MMA-VRD 200 can be safely classified as an amateur, but quite reliable and functional model.
The best manufacturers
Before deciding on the purchase of a model, it is important to choose a brand of welding machine for your home and garden. Many companies are involved in the production of inverters. But not everyone has earned the trust of buyers. It is best to pay attention to the following manufacturers.
Fubag
German manufacturer of specialized equipment for construction and repair. Welding inverters from this company are distinguished by their reliability, functionality and durability.
Aurora
The brand comes from Belarus. It has been producing high-quality welding machines for the general consumer for quite some time. In its models it uses the latest developments, which significantly simplify the process of welding surfaces.
Resanta SAI 220 for the dacha
The well-known Latvian brand has long earned a reputation in the domestic market as a manufacturer of affordable and fairly high-quality welding equipment. Let's consider the main advantages and disadvantages of a particular model. The welding inverter SAI 220 is popular among amateurs and novice welders. Low cost (only 8,000 rubles) plus good assembly and good quality components are the main reasons that make the model in demand.
The maximum that the welder provides is 220 amperes. This is enough to use electrodes with a diameter of up to 5 mm, as well as cut metal of medium thickness. Without a break, he can work 7 minutes out of 10, i.e. It runs for 7 minutes and cools down for 3 minutes. And so on through the cycle. However, the model was nicknamed “dacha” for another reason. It works perfectly with unstable voltage in the power supply network and can withstand fluctuations from 160 to 260 volts.
However, buyers have noted a decline in the build quality of inverters in recent years. Another disadvantage is the demanding equipment. It is undesirable to allow it to become waterlogged or overcooled, as this can lead to rapid failure of the components. Despite such significant disadvantages, SAI 220 remains on the list of the most popular welding machines and rightfully takes its place in the compiled rating.
Similarities between Resanta and Fubaga
It's worth noting that Fubag is slightly more expensive compared to Resanta, although this is a minor difference. With a declared welding current of 160 amperes, the cost of the devices is about 6,000 rubles, and with a current of 200 amperes, around 8,000 rubles.
Both representatives have the same quick-release connector with a diameter of 25 mm2, the same cables, both in length and in the thickness of the braided copper wire. Both Resanta and Fubag work stably when the voltage drops to 180 volts, but with a further decrease in voltage they already require a stabilizer.
The assembly is reliable, the boards of both devices are covered with a protective varnish, nothing is loose. For cooling, Resanta uses two fans, Fubag has one, but more powerful!
Resanta SAI 190PROF
Another representative of the same brand, the demand for which is not decreasing, but only growing. This is one of the best-selling models in the SAI line. Its performance characteristics are more than sufficient for household equipment, and its relatively low cost makes the installation in demand among different categories of users.
Compact, easy-to-use welding inverter produces pulses with a power of 190 amperes. The main difference, which is highly appreciated by customers, is the ability to perform welding work with a voltage of only 100 volts. It was this technological solution that made it possible to bring the model into the rating category. It is so successful that even the fairly high price for the household segment of 15 thousand rubles did not reduce consumer demand to a critical level. The ability to weld in poor power conditions has become more important to potential buyers.
Advantages
- Light weight.
- Compactness.
- Voltage range 100-260V.
- Operating temperature from -10 to +40 degrees.
- Anti Stick, Hot Start and ARC FORCE functions.
- Shockproof housing.
- Smooth adjustment of welding current.
- Easy ignition.
FoxWeldMaster 202
The next inverter that was tested is economical in operation, compact and lightweight. His field of activity is manual arc welding of stainless steel and structural steel products using a stick electrode under direct current conditions. This “Fox” is well known to professional welders, since this unit is one of the long-lived inverters.
It demonstrates consistently reliable operation and features the same layout as other models included in the first generation of inverters.
At the same time, on the test bench it is this “Master 202” that shows the best results, which gives reason to distinguish it favorably from the general mass of tools. This applies both to the minimum value of the welding current and to the minimum mains voltage, and the arc is ignited here easier and faster. It would seem like little things, but in real work they are very important.
Experts believe that this successful combination of small but pleasant advantages is due to the length of time this model has been on the market: the technology has been proven, the components are of consistently good quality, and the installation is neat. Pleasant little things start with a convenient handle for transportation, the frame is durable, connected with bolts.
Here you have the opportunity to choose a tool from the same company, both more expensive and more modern - that is, for any budget and work capabilities.
Forsazh 161 - inexpensive and high-quality welding inverter
An excellent choice for beginners and those who love working with metal. Everyone who has had to deal with this model notes the excellent price-quality ratio. Indeed, these are one of the most reliable devices in the price range up to 10 thousand rubles. The inverter is unlikely to interest buyers with a particularly attractive design or unusual performance characteristics. But for relatively little money, every buyer will receive a reliable unit for MMA or TIG welding.
The maximum welding current is 160 amperes, but without interruptions to cool down the equipment, you can weld at a value of 100A. no problems will arise if the network voltage drops down to 140 volts. It is worth emphasizing that the inverter holds the arc perfectly, and it ignites very easily. This feature will be of great importance for beginners and few practicing welders.
Advantages
- Compact, lightweight device.
- Low power consumption.
- Power supply from autonomous power plants with a capacity of 9 kVA.
- Connecting the inverter to a network from 160 V.
- Argon arc welding.
- Easy arc ignition.
- Mobility.
- Possibility of working with electrodes with a diameter of up to 4 mm.
- Switching off welding in case of power surges and overheating.
- Additional functions “Arc force”, “Hot start”, “Anti-sticking”.
- Maximum power - 5.5 kVA.
- Long service life.
SVAROG ARC 205 (J96) CASE
Literally “on the heels” of Resanta, “stepping on her backs,” are inverters called “Svarog” - a completely Slavic name, in a certain sense even sacred. However, Svarog does not come from Russia at all (just like the device that took first place), but from our friendly China. The attitude in our country towards Chinese products is changing, because from experience it becomes obvious that China “drives” not only consumer goods, but also produces high-quality equipment (Svarog is just an example of such equipment).
SVAROG ARC 205 CASE for networks with stable voltage (welding is possible at voltages from 180V). High performance, low weight and compact size are provided by IGBT technology using the principle of pulse width modulation. Upon closer examination of the welding machine, it becomes obvious that it can be used for welding at home, but will also be useful to professionals. For example, it will help in solving welding tasks in housing maintenance facilities, at a construction site during the installation of metal structures, it will be useful in landscaping personal areas, in car repair shops, etc.
The presence of the TIG function (main operating mode – MMA – manual arc welding) made it possible to expand the scope of application of this device.
In most cases, the amps declared by the manufacturer are honest. That is, if for the ARC 205 the maximum welding current is 180A, it is so not only de jure, but also de facto. You can check the reality of the declared current values yourself using an ammeter and a shunt connected in parallel to it, which are installed in the gap of the welding cable.
The functions “anti-sticking”, “hot start”, “arc force” are also honest, although it should be noted that there are cases when one of the functions was missing or did not work correctly (although this happens much less often than with the same Resant welders).
The control panel of the device consists of a knob for adjusting the welding current and diodes that indicate that there is power, or that overheating has occurred due to too intensive use of the device. There is no arc force adjustment knob (although it is available in the 205 B (J76). From our point of view, this is a big disadvantage, since the function cannot be adjusted or turned off. However, it will help more than harm when solving most tasks welding
The welding cable in Svarog has always been and remains copper. The quality of the electrode holder and ground clamp, as in all inverters of the budget series, remains low, since in the process of their production components made, including from recycled materials, are used. Therefore, after more or less intensive work, the “holders” and “crocodiles” become unusable, which can be solved by replacing them.
The TIG mode allows you to obtain high-quality welds (visual characteristics, strength properties) on parts made of carbon, structural, and stainless steels. TIG welding of special alloys is possible: titanium, magnesium alloys, etc.
To operate in argon arc welding mode, the factory components will not be enough; you must additionally purchase:
- Valve torch and accessories for it (tungsten electrodes with thorium oxide - red marking; collets, collet holders, caps - long and short for welding in hard-to-reach places)
- Argon cylinder, reducer, gas hose.
The TIG function is not a full-fledged argon welding, which introduces certain features into the welding technique when working in this mode and complicates working with thin metal less than 0.8 mm thick. This is due to the characteristics of the current-voltage characteristics of the power source.
SVAROG ARC 205 is transported in a case along with components, consumables and a welding shield, which is included as a gift.
An additional motivation for purchasing an inverter should be a 5-year warranty and a wide network of service centers throughout the country. The seller’s extended warranty indicates that he is confident in the quality of the products he sells.
Steadily in demand Svarog PRO ARC 160 (Z211S)
In the same price segment there is another very reliable device - SVAROG PRO ARC 160. The brand has been represented on the domestic market for more than five years and is one of a small number of companies that provide a five-year warranty on their products. In addition to the low price (around 10 thousand rubles), the device is characterized by good functionality and build quality. It generates current up to 160 amperes and is immune to power surges.
The model under consideration is used for MMA welding or metal surfacing. But if necessary, it can also be used for TIG welding, equipped with a valve torch. Other advantages include anti-stick electrodes and hot start. The digital display provided on the case has a sufficient degree of brightness, and the information is easy to read even in sunny weather. All the advantages of the inverter allow it to remain in the top of the best among budget offers.
Advantages
- Argon arc welding.
- Easy ignition and arc forcing.
- High arc stability.
- Light weight and size.
- Carry using a shoulder strap.
- Efficiency - 85%.
GYSIInverter 4000
The number of inverters tested also included a representative from the GYSInverter 4000 model line. This is a French product for a specific retail chain; all other instruments sold on the domestic market are yellow-blue.
This model is also called Gysmi 161 and is a lightweight and comfortable unit that qualitatively welds structural steel and stainless steel. It has a single-phase format and microprocessor control. Capable of functioning connected to a generator. This yellow and blue assistant has some quirks.
And, since this inverter is quite widely represented on our market, we should talk about them in more detail. The professionals who worked with it are already well aware of the cramped case. There is a steel ball on the ground clamp. But only on one side. At the second end of the wire we have a brass washer. And if the ball does not provide contact (rusty or painted surface), then the fate of the washer is short-lived. This should be kept in mind when monitoring the connection of the ball to the surface and, possibly, cleaning the area.
The second “whim” is that the boards are located on legs that are close to each other. Therefore, care must be taken to ensure that no conductive dust gets between them. Otherwise, it makes quite a decent impression.
Equipment
All devices are supplied in cardboard boxes and have standard equipment: operating instructions, carrying strap, welding holder cable and ground cable. The length of the ELITECH 180M holder cable is 110 cm, for the 220M – 158 cm. The ground cable of the devices is 105 cm. Both SHAKERS are equipped with holder cables 190 cm long and a ground cable 132 cm long.
It’s worth saying a few words about the cross-section of the standard welding cables that come with the machines. Both manufacturers equip inverters with aluminum copper-plated cables of insufficient cross-section: (ELITECH 180M 16mm, ELITECH 220M 25mm, UDARNIK UIS 160 - 16mm, UDARNIK UIS 200 - 25mm), if the cables were made of copper, there would be no questions about them. In our opinion, the standard kit can become seriously hot when operating at high currents.
The power cables of ELITECH devices have a length of 155 cm. The core cross-section is 1.5 and 2.5 mm2 for the 180th and 220th models, respectively. The SHOCK cables are 137 cm long, with a core cross-section of 1.5 mm2, which is not enough for a 160A device, and clearly not enough for a 200A source. Another disadvantage of the UDARNIK inverter configuration is the weak clamp of the return cable, which is more suitable for a charger.
In the opinion of our expert, the UDARNIK devices are assembled by machine - quite neatly. IGBT transistors FGA 6560WDF (200) and FGA 6540 (160) installed on these devices have a low saturation voltage and a high operating temperature of up to 175C. The number and rating of transistors (4x40A for 160 and 4x60A for 200) are sufficient to work with those currents specified by the manufacturer as maximum.
The big disadvantage of the devices is the insufficient rating of the input bridge, which is 35 and 50A - for the 160 and 200 models, respectively. This unit negates all the advantages of transistors described above: the device will not be able to produce the current characteristics stated in the passport. The small rating of the input bridge can also be the reason for the unsatisfactory operation of the device in low voltage conditions. A serious drawback of the Udarnikov design is the insufficient level of cooling of the output diodes of the devices - they will overheat before the transistors. Our expert also noted the absence of an electromagnetic filter in the inverter circuit, which can lead to malfunctions of complex electronic equipment.
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As for Elitech devices, among the advantages it is worth noting neat machine assembly, a sufficient level of maintainability and compliance of the rating of the input bridges with the declared welding current of the inverters. The inverter circuit uses GT50JR22 transistors, with improved performance, low heating and operating losses. The devices have a powerful fan installed, which should provide better heat removal from the radiators. Elitech engineers are so confident in the sufficient level of cooling of the new transistors that they moved the temperature sensor, which turns off the power circuits of the device when overheated, to the radiator of the output diodes, however, saving on the number of diodes in the 160A model (only 3 pieces instead of 4-5) can reduce all efforts developers are not: a small number of diodes during intensive operation can lead to overheating of this unit and a protective shutdown of the device. As for the 200A model, here the number of diodes corresponds to the current rating - 6 pcs. Another common disadvantage of Elitech devices is the lack of input electromagnetic filters.
Welding currents and shape of the current-voltage characteristic
We will take the current-voltage characteristics of the devices and check the values of open circuit voltage, maximum welding current and short circuit current declared by the manufacturer.
It is worth saying that despite the name of the inverter “ELITECH 180M”, the device is positioned by the manufacturer as a 160-amp current source. Let's start our comparison with this denomination
The maximum welding current of the UIS 160 SHAKER is 150A, which does not exceed the error limits of 10%. ELITECH 180M produces a maximum current of 162A. The open circuit voltage is UDARNIK UIS 160 64V, which corresponds to the declared voltage. As for the ELITECH IC 180M, the open circuit voltage is also within the error range of 80V, instead of the stated 85.
The maximum short circuit current is UDARNIK UIS160 - 160A, ELITECH IS 180M - 227A.
Let's compare the characteristics of 200-amp models. The maximum welding current of the UDARNIK UIS 200 inverter is not 200A, as stated by the manufacturer, but much less: only 168A. 200-amp ELITECH, produces 210A. The open circuit voltage of UDARNIKA and ELITECH corresponds to the declared 68 (66V) and 82 (85V)
Short circuit currents at maximum currents are 182A and 250A for UDARNIK and ELITECH, respectively.
As for the shape of the current-voltage characteristic, it can be assumed that on all four inverters the ignition process and the stability of the arc should be at an acceptable level.
Let's start testing the load duration with ELITECH 180M. We load the source with a current of 90A - in accordance with the declared continuous load current indicated on the device nameplate. After an hour in the heat chamber, the device did not go into protection, which means that 60% of the inverter’s PN can be considered confirmed.
UDARNIK UIS 160 could not confirm the PN of 40% declared by the manufacturer. Under a load of 106 A - indicated in the inverter's passport, the device was able to stand in the heat chamber for only 2 minutes 43 seconds instead of an hour.
To find out the real long-term load current and calculate the approximate operating mode of the device, we will load the source with the maximum current and see how long the inverter can withstand overheating. The protection worked after 1 minute and 2 seconds, which means that the inverter’s PV, instead of the declared 40%, is slightly more than 10%. Let's check our assumption and calculate the long-term load current: (Idl=Inom X √ PN; 150x√0.1=47A). At a current of 47A, the device stood in the heat chamber for 1 hour and did not go into protection, which means that 10% of the PN can be considered confirmed.
Since the rated current of the device UDARNIK UIS 200 does not correspond to the declared one, the PN of the inverter is indicated on the device incorrectly. To imagine what voltage the source actually has, let’s load it with a rated current of 168A and place it in a heat chamber. The overheating indicator came on after 2 minutes and 43 seconds, or 2.7 minutes. Accordingly, the PN of the device is about 27%. Let's check our calculations with a long-term load current, which for UDARNIK UIS 200 (Idl=Inom X √ PN; 168x√0.27=87A) is 87A. We again place the device in the heat chamber, load it with a current of 87A and leave it in the heat chamber for an hour. DRUMMER UIS 200 did not go into overheating protection, which means the 27% PN can be considered confirmed.
The test device ELITECH 220M showed that the declared PN of 60% corresponds to reality. The device was installed in a heat chamber and loaded with a current of 110A, which is indicated on the inverter nameplate. An hour later, the inverter did not go into overheating protection, which means the value of the operating mode for this device can be considered confirmed.
Checking the performance of devices at reduced voltage
In order to check how the equipment behaves in conditions of low voltage of the supply network, we simulate the drawdown using LATR: we lower the voltage from 190 to 160V in steps of 10 volts. For the test we use electrodes with a diameter of 2.5 mm OK 46.00 - with a rutile coating.
The test showed that both UDARNIK devices cope with welding when the voltage drops to 170A. Devices from ELITECH can produce a stable arc at 160V in a socket.
Additional functions
All devices have additional functions: hot start, arc force and anti-stick.
Let's start with the
Antistick
. As the test showed, there are no problems with calcination on all devices.
Hot Start
We check the devices using an oscilloscope and a current shunt. This function, judging by the current oscillograms, is absent on all four inverters. There is no current surge or reduction to operating parameters.
Arc Fast and Furious
This function should facilitate the separation of a drop of electrode metal during welding and prevent sticking of the electrode (show a graph of the device with Fast and Furious). Judging by the current-voltage characteristics of the devices, the manufacturers do not provide for arc forcing during the operation of the devices.
VRD
This option is not stated in the functionality of the devices. Judging by the voltmeter readings, in fact, it is also absent.
Devices in operation
Next, we will weld control seams on pre-prepared metal using electrodes OK 46.00 (rutile coating, diameter 2.5 mm), UONII 13/55 (basic coating, 4 mm) and draw conclusions about how the inverters behave during real welding.
None of the 4 machines had any problems with ignition or stability of the arc, either when welding with a 2.5 mm electrode or when working with 4 mm electrodes. The only caveat is that the current on the SHOCKERS has to be set to higher current values than on the ELITECH.
Results
To summarize, let's say that ELITECH machines can be called the winners of the welding duel. The drummers lost to their competitors not only in terms of the declared welding current, but also in terms of duty cycle. It is also worth noting that the devices, contrary to the stated characteristics, do not have the Hot Start and Arc Force functions.
Watch this article in the video:
Cedar MIG 160GDM for various works
Among the best devices in terms of price and quality ratio is the Kedr MIG 160GDM. Semiautomatic is used to perform a variety of tasks. It can be used in MIG or MAG modes in conjunction with filler wire. If there are jobs where you can’t do without argon TIG welding, then you don’t have to look for any other inverter. The MIG 160 GDM copes well with these tasks. And for all these features the buyer will have to pay about 10 thousand rubles.
But it should be noted that it will not be possible to work with aluminum or aluminum-containing metals. Only TIG DC mode is implemented here, and AC is required for aluminum. The arc parameters are set automatically by the equipment without operator intervention, based on the welding mode. This feature will especially appeal to beginners, who at first will not have to select settings to perform a specific job.
Among the disadvantages, you should pay attention to the small cycle of continuous operation. This applies to cases when electrodes with a diameter of 4-5 millimeters are used. You can, of course, work continuously with 3 mm electrodes. But then the capabilities of the device are significantly reduced. Nevertheless, the Kedr MIG 160GDM can easily be considered one of the best units presented in this rating.
Advantages
- Power consumption - 6.1 kVA.
- Voltage adjustment.
- Configure parameters with one button.
- Microprocessor.
- Arc force.
- Hot Start.
- High build quality.
- Long service life.
Results
This was all the information about decent and affordable household inverters. We created the list based on real reviews from masters, as well as our personal experience.
In the ranking, we do not single out a favorite, because everything is individual. We advise you to buy the device that you find in your city, with a guarantee.
And if you are choosing your first welding machine, then you definitely shouldn’t choose based on the characteristics, because you won’t notice any difference in performance.
And after a while you will be able to determine what you would like to change and, already having experience and skills, choose a more powerful inverter. Good luck in your work!
The most expensive model in the rating: Torus 200C Super
Difficulties in choosing a purchase option are caused not only by the large assortment of goods, but also by prices. Sometimes they are unacceptably high. Especially when it comes to options capable of performing work in MMA and TIG modes. Such models on store shelves are accompanied by high price tags, and sellers and manufacturers in unison justify them by the additional functionality of the devices they sell.
The exception to this unpleasant rule was the Torus 200C Super welding inverters. They are designed to operate in both modes, generate a welding arc of 200 amperes and cost about 15,000 rubles. The manufacturer declares the possibility of continuous long-term operation even at maximum loads, provided that the metal being welded is not thick. And experienced welders leave positive reviews on various forums about the functionality and reliability of the device.
The model will interest not only beginners, but also experienced craftsmen. It lights the arc easily and keeps it stable throughout the entire cycle. In this case, it does not matter at all which mode is set by the regulator - TIG or MMA.
Advantages
- Light weight and dimensions.
- Resistance to voltage changes - 165-242 V.
- Use of electrodes with a diameter of up to 5 mm.
- D.C.
- PV - 100% at 200A.
- Thermostat and air cooling.
The most powerful
Wester TIG 220
pros
- Produces good current
- There is power reserve
- The arc burns steadily
- The electrode does not stick
Minuses
- Not very good cables included
From 14,000 ₽
A device with compact dimensions and light weight. The assembly is reliable. Allows you to cook any surface with argon. Produces power of 9.5 kW. Cooks quickly and evenly. The device weighs about 8 kg. Electrode diameter from 1.60 to 5 mm. It ignites an arc at a high frequency, which allows you to achieve what you want in just one touch.
Fubag IN 316 T
pros
- Multifunctionality
- Three-phase power
- High power
- Good level of insulation
Minuses
- High price
- Heavy weight
From 40,000 ₽
A model with adjustable arc force that is capable of welding even the most difficult materials. A power of 10 kW is enough to carry out any work. The device produces a maximum welding current of 255 A during continuous operation. It supports working with electrodes up to 6 mm in diameter.
Simple and reliable BLUEWELD Prestige 186 PRO
The semi-automatic BLUEWELD Prestige 186 PRO is not by chance in the ranking of the best budget welding inverters. It has the ability to operate in two modes - MMA or TIG, and is characterized by simplicity and reliability of operation. But it is more suitable for work that requires MMA mode. Therefore, it is perfect for those specialists who rarely have to resort to TIG welding in practice. Otherwise, you will have to face the problem of low quality seams obtained in this operating mode.
The maximum power of welding equipment is 160 amperes. Under maximum load conditions, it can perform 60% of the cycle. That is, 6 minutes are spent on welding work, and 4 minutes are spent on cooling the power plant. The tool is convenient for specialists with a traveling nature of work, since its weight is only 5 kg.
At first glance, one is struck by the relatively modest functionality of the unit and the not-so-modest price for a budget model, amounting to approximately 14,000 rubles. But there is one important circumstance that explains this paradox. The fact is that the model is assembled in Italy, and high-quality components are used in its production. So, unlike Chinese analogues, the price also includes payment for European quality standards. Judging by user reviews, this is true. The device has good build quality and reliability.
Advantages
- Light weight and dimensions.
- High stability of welding current.
- “Arc Force”, “Hot Start”, “Antistick” function.
- Practicality and ease of use.
Are Russian-made inverters a myth?
There is an opinion that Russian-made inverter welding machines are not actually such, and this is all a marketing ploy. Is it so? Yes and no. Let's take a closer look.
Let's say right away: domestic inverters, designed and assembled here, really exist, and this is not a myth. But the manufacturers of such equipment can be counted on one hand. And we are talking specifically about welding equipment that is produced and produced from scratch in Russia, without the help of foreign brands.
As a rule, such devices are not very expensive, but they are quite reliable. The manufacturer simply has no reason to save on everything in order to lower the final price of the inverter.
Welding production
What about dozens of other devices that are considered domestic? The same “Resanta” or “Svarog”. Aren't they domestically produced? Alas, no. The only thing that makes these devices look like domestic ones is the Russian letters on the case and in the instructions.
There are no more similarities. The head office of such brands, of course, is located in Russia. But all the development and assembly of devices takes place in China or other Asian countries. And in most cases, quality control is also carried out by foreign specialists. Such inverters, even with a stretch, cannot be called domestically produced devices.
Is it good or bad? This is fine. Many brands are forced to move or create their production in Asia from scratch. Labor is inexpensive there, so there is an opportunity to save money when manufacturing equipment. And ultimately provide you, the customers, with a low-cost inverter.