TOP 15 best argon arc welding machines (TIG): rating 2021-2022 and which functional model to choose

Rating of the TOP 15 best argon arc welding machines (TIG) 2021-2022

Cedar MIG-160GDM

​Photo: https://beru.ru

The most versatile device in the review - it allows its owner to work both with welding wire in the MIG/MAG mode, and with stick electrodes and an argon torch (though, exclusively in the TIG DC mode - it cannot be used for welding aluminum alloys). This inverter belongs to the family of welding machines with microprocessor synergetic control: it has only two controls - a touch mode selection button and a multifunctional regulator. Most arc burning parameters are set automatically depending on the selected mode. This is convenient for beginners, but a professional welder would rather choose a machine with a large number of manual settings. In addition, full operation at high currents is limited by the low PV value: long-term welding with an electrode can only be done with a diameter of up to 3 mm, which, taking into account the high price of the inverter itself, led to a noticeable decrease in the score in the rating of the best welding machines.

Welding machine MIG-160GDM (MIG/MAG, MMA)

How to choose a argon arc welding machine (TIG)?

When purchasing, pay special attention to the following parameters:

1. Weight and dimensions . This is relevant if you regularly need to transport the device.
2. Type of metal and welding current . To work with steel and other durable metals, devices operating with direct current are required. For non-ferrous metals, aluminum, for example, alternating current is required.
3. Current range . Indicates the available thickness of material that can be worked with. It is better to choose devices with a range from 10 to 200-250 A, this will make your purchase universal.
4. Duration of switching on . This parameter indicates the operating time at maximum power.

FAQ

Is a regular inverter suitable for argon welding? For argon welding, both a transformer and an inverter are suitable. The essence of the method is that welding is performed in an argon environment. Argon, as an inert gas, prevents oxidation of the welding area by oxygen from the air.

How to care for a welding inverter? There are two main points here: cleaning the device from dust and cleaning the gas burner nozzle from carbon deposits. It is best to remove dust with compressed air from a special blow gun or can: remove the protective casing from the inverter and thoroughly blow out the device. The burner must be cleaned of molten metal using a rounded file, and it is advisable to do this more often.

TOP 5 best argon arc welding machines (TIG) by price/quality for 2021-2022

Svarog REAL SMART ARC 200 (Z28303) BLACK (TIG, MMA)

An affordable model with universal functionality, which will be sufficient for both home use and work in a small workshop..

Thanks to the reliable device, this device can be easily mastered not only by a professional or experienced user, but also by a beginner.

Capable of operating in two modes: manual and synergetic mode . The latter allows you to abandon the tedious selection of parameters, independently tuning to the desired current supply format.

The model has good equipment, which includes not only a welding machine, but also an operator mask with a light filter, leggings, an electric holder, and electrodes with a diameter of 2.5 mm.

And the instructions will help you set up and use all the elements correctly. The parameters are displayed on a digital display, there is a current regulator on the side, and keys at the bottom for activating functions and modes.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Input voltage - 140-270 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 3.8 kg.

pros

• convenient display;
• the ability to customize the device for yourself;
• reliable design;
• price-quality ratio;
• powerful cooling.

Minuses

• The Antistatic function, which eliminates electrode sticking, sometimes fails.

FoxWeld InverMIG 205 (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)

A good option for performing welding work in a small car service center or in your own garage.

Welding is carried out with direct current; for this, the company’s specialists use inverter technology to convert and control the welding current.

Thanks to her, it was possible to obtain a tool that is not only functional, but also small in weight and size..

The efficiency of the device is estimated by experts at 85%.

The input voltage is produced in the range of 187-253 V, and at idle it is about 60 V. Due to the fact that this model is semi-automatic, it is possible to achieve ideal welding parameters, even if the incoming voltage drops significantly.

Well suited for welding parts with small thickness . The arc is ignited by touch; there is also an inductance adjustment, with which you can control the power of the device.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Input voltage - 187-253 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 4.1 kg.

pros

• a good option for working with small thicknesses;
• convenient control;
• good equipment;
• compactness, light weight.

Minuses

• not detected.

Aurora Dynamics 200 (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)

The advantage of this model is that it is a professional device, but does not cost exorbitant amounts of money..

This is an inverter semi-automatic machine capable of operating in three modes with a maximum current of 160, 180 and 200 A.

Experts estimate the efficiency at 90 percent, which is an excellent indicator of functionality . All parameter settings are carried out using one knob.

Thanks to microprocessor control, it is possible to maintain the voltage at a constant level, without a sharp drop.

Synergetics allows you to trust a smart device, but the manufacturer has left the opportunity to manually adjust the parameters if necessary..

Another plus is economical energy consumption. The developers did not forget about the high-quality cooling system.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Power - 6.20 kW.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 9.2 kg.

pros

• microprocessor control;
• three types of work;
• good efficiency.

Minuses

• low PV - 30 percent.

Fubag IRMIG 160 SYN (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)

The device belongs to the advanced semi-automatic inverter type, in which the current indicators at the peak moment reach 160 A.

This is enough to weld ordinary and non-ferrous metal up to 8 mm thick. The package includes a gas burner to operate in an active or inert gas atmosphere.

Wire is used whose diameter is in the range of 0.8-1 mm.

The wire spool is placed inside the device; on its front side there is a handle for controlling the speed of wire unwinding.

You can adjust both the current and all operating parameters in MIG mode to suit your needs..

It is worth noting the effective cooling system, which protects all the main elements from overheating. The duration of switching on at peak load reaches 60%.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 160 A.
3. Input voltage - 187-253 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 12 kg.

pros

• three types of work;
• the handle does not slip in the hand;
• The package includes a burner.

Minuses

• not detected.

Aurora SPEEDWAY 180 (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)

The device is a logical continuation of the line of professional products from this brand.

It is capable of operating in three modes, the current power for all of them reaches 180 A. At the same time, the efficiency is estimated at 85 percent.

The semi-automatic machine is controlled synergistically, setting welding parameters has become available using only one regulator.

This device is recommended not only for domestic use, but also for medium-sized industries or auto repair shops.

According to the manufacturer, the model differs qualitatively from similar devices in its ability to reduce the amount and intensity of welding spatter.

And thanks to the transfer impulse, even a beginner will be able to form smooth joints that will be similar to the work of professional equipment in a factory.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 180 A.
3. Power - 7.10 kW.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 8 kg.

pros

• less splashing;
• high-quality seam penetration;
• voltage stability during drop;
• simple controls.

Minuses

• not detected.

Argon welding principle

During normal welding work, one electrical wire is connected to the metal object being processed, and a second one is connected to the electrode. When they come into contact, an electric arc is formed. It is a plasma clot that has a very high temperature that can melt metal. It melts, as a result of which several parts are connected to each other.

However, this technique has one significant drawback - the metal at the processing site is highly oxidized, interacting with oxygen. As a result, the welds become less strong.

To combat this problem, an argon apparatus was created. The principle of operation of the device is to protect the surface being treated from chemically active substances (for example, oxygen contained in the atmosphere), it is coated with another substance. Its role is played by argon. It belongs to the group of inert gases. Their distinctive feature is their inability to enter into chemical reactions with other substances.

Therefore, if a layer of this gas is located above the workpiece, it will:

• Will not allow atmospheric oxygen to reach its surface.

• At the same time, he himself will not react with her.

Due to its physical properties and the design of the equipment, argon forms a kind of protective dome over the area being welded.

Expert opinion

Kuznetsov Vasily Stepanovich

For welding work using this method, not only a standard set of equipment is required, but also an argon cylinder.

TOP 5 best inexpensive argon arc welding machines (TIG)

Svarog REAL SMART ARC 200

Budget semi-automatic, which is used for operation both manually and in synergetic mode.

That is, the user can completely trust the automatic setup or manually calibrate the necessary parameters.

In both modes, the current increases to 200 A, thanks to which an efficiency of ninety percent is achieved.

The device stands out from the entire mass of competitors with its black matte body, rubber regulators, wide configuration and versatility of use, that is, the model is popular both among amateur beginners and professional welders.

There is an automatic hot start with the possibility of manual adjustment.

The same applies to arc force. Therefore, the device is in demand in small industries and car services, as it is possible to work with thin metal parts.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - (TIG, MMA).
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Power - 7.10 kVA.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 3.8 kg.

pros

• compactness and lightness of the model;
• good equipment;
• manual and automatic modes;
• convenient control.

Minuses

• Automatic hot start sometimes does not turn on the first time.

ELITECH AIS 200D

An inexpensive, compact and lightweight model of a welding machine that can be used at home, for construction or repair work, as well as for the professional activities of auto repairmen..

The device operates in manual and automatic mode, the parameters are displayed on a small but clear digital display. The case has stable legs, thanks to which the model can be placed on any surface.

The maximum power consumption of the model is estimated at 6.2 kW, and the efficiency is 85 percent.

Its welding current range can be adjusted, from 10 A to 200 A.

Therefore, it is possible to work even with thin materials and control the penetration depth.

The device kit includes two types of cables, with an electrode holder and with a ground clamp.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - (TIG, MMA).
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Input voltage - 110-275 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 3.5 kg.

pros

• compact and lightweight, suitable for working at heights;
• good power indicators;
• manual and automatic control.

Minuses

• short cable.

Quattro Elementi B 205

Larger model than previous representatives of budget welding machines.

The case is in dark colors, there is a comfortable handle for carrying the device and large legs for stability on any surface.

Suitable for domestic needs, construction or repair, capable of working with both alloy steel and non-ferrous metals.

The maximum welding current reaches 205 A.

The device is very convenient to work with, thanks to its simple controls it is quite suitable for a beginner.

It is possible to set the current strength with an accuracy of one ampere.

The parameters are displayed on a digital display, which can also reflect the error number in the system, so you can always determine the reason for the stop and continue working.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 205 A.
3. Input voltage - 170-260 V.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 5.3 kg.

pros

• convenient body with low weight;
• good power;
• simple control with precise adjustment.

Minuses

• At high power it heats up quickly.

Aurora STICKMATE 205

An excellent option for a welding machine for a visiting specialist . Reliable case,

which weighs less than 4.5 kg, with a rigid and wide handle for transportation.

One of the advantages of the model is the ability to use several types of electrodes - rutile, basic, and cellulose are suitable.

By adjusting the arc force, you can reduce the risk of electrode sticking. There is an automatic hot start. There is a digital display on the case, thanks to which you can track all the necessary parameters.

The current reaches 200 A in both modes, while less electricity is consumed than analogues from competitors.

Due to its functionality and affordable price, such a device is popular among professional users and beginners.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Input voltage - 195-264 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 4.3 kg.

pros

• set of functions;
• good equipment;
• power in both modes;
• There is an automatic hot start.

Minuses

• sometimes it overheats a lot.

Wester TIG 220

A good representative of the range of this brand with an affordable price and optimal functionality for home and garden.

This is a universal inverter, suitable for manual or argon-arc processing of ordinary and non-ferrous metals with a current of up to 220 V (and for two modes).

Current indicators are displayed on the built-in digital display, at the bottom of which there is a knob in order to set this parameter accurate to the ampere.

For work, the user can use electrodes with a diameter of up to 5 mm. Optimization of the internal filling of the device and a powerful cooling system make it possible to achieve an operating time of 70% at maximum current.

If a critical temperature has been reached, the power is turned off until the device cools down.

Among the features, we note the Arc Force function, which will protect against arc rupture, and the Hot Start option will increase the current strength to achieve faster ignition of the arc.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - (TIG, MMA).
2. Maximum welding current - 220 A.
3. Power - 9.50 kW.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 7.7 kg.

pros

• bright display;
• the ability to precisely adjust the current;
• protection of the housing and internal parts from overheating;
• easier arc ignition.

Minuses

• short cable.

Some tips for choosing a welding inverter for your home and work safety

To simplify the choice of the machine that is right for you, the editors of Tehno.guru recommend using a few simple but useful tips from experienced welders:

1. First of all, decide what volumes the inverter will have to cope with. For a light load, a budget model with a minimum set of additional functions is sufficient. For higher demands, you will have to “fork out” for high-end equipment.
2. Consider the electricity consumed - in some cases, the electricity bill can reach four-digit amounts.
3. Do not use high amperage welding procedures without additional voltage stabilizing equipment. Otherwise, you risk creating a short circuit or even large-scale power outages.
4. Try not to purchase cheap electrodes - they do not cook well, cause various minor damages, and sometimes tend to fall out of the holder.
5. Don't neglect safety rules. Be sure to wear a special welder's uniform, use a protective mask and gloves. Try to protect the work area with any opaque material. Keep flammable objects away from you.

TOP 5 best inverter welding machines (TIG)

FoxWeld InverMig 185

Another popular option from this brand for performing welding work in a small car service center or in your own garage.

Welding is carried out with direct current; for this, the company’s specialists use inverter technology to convert and control the welding current. Thanks to her, it was possible to obtain a tool that is not only functional, but also light in weight and size.

Often used for on-site and high-altitude work, since the dimensions allow the device to be placed in the trunk, and the body has a thick handle for carrying.

The input voltage is produced in the range of 187-253 V, and at idle it is about 60 V. Due to the fact that this model is semi-automatic, it is possible to achieve ideal welding parameters, even if the incoming voltage drops significantly.

Has an internal wire feeder whose speed can be adjusted.

Well suited for welding parts with small thickness.

The arc is ignited by touch, there is also an inductance adjustment, with which you can control the power of the device.

The kit includes a gas burner, which saves both money and time on selecting the right tool.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 180 A.
3. Input voltage - 187-242 V.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 20 kg.

pros

• parameters can be adjusted;
• digital display;
• good equipment;
• slight spattering of metal.

Minuses

• a little heavy.

RESANTA SAIPA-190MF

A welding machine from a popular brand with universal use . Useful for

work with aluminum sheets, cast iron, most grades of steel, as well as for cutting metal. Thanks to the presence of argon arc welding, it is possible to combine alloy steels, as well as non-ferrous metals of different types.

The manufacturer has taken care to provide a powerful cooling system; due to heat removal, the duty cycle is extended by up to 70 percent..

If the temperature of the power elements rises to the maximum, the thermal protection turns off the power to the device until they cool completely.

There is a special regulator on the front panel that controls the speed of wire unwinding.

Here the user can monitor the current and arc voltage. This helps control the depth of welding of parts. In the MMA current activation mode, the broaching of filler material can also be monitored.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 190 A.
3. Operating voltage - 17.60-27.60 V.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 11.26 kg.

pros

• there is both two-stroke and four-stroke welding;
• convenient control;
• good cooling.

Minuses

• The cable is short, and its insulation often cracks and breaks.

Aurora INTER TIG 200 AC/DC Pulse

A decent option for professional use that can handle both AC and DC current.

It is a representative of reliable technology, created by experienced specialists.

A powerful cooling system will not allow overheating or breakdown; the digital display shows not only parameters for setting, but also error codes, so that it is possible to troubleshoot and resume operation.

Thanks to a wide range of current strength, a specialist is able to control the weld penetration and make the overlap as smooth as possible. You can work with both alloy steel and non-ferrous metals.

The device is suitable for outdoor use; it is not afraid of frost down to minus twenty degrees and extreme heat, and a special function reduces the amount of splashes.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Input voltage - 187-253 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 20 kg.

pros

• wide functionality;
• good equipment;
• high power and precision.

Minuses

• not detected.

ELITECH AIS 220D

One of the best representatives of such devices, thanks to the successful combination of low price, good functionality, power and compactness.

The maximum welding current reaches 220 A. This allows you to fully process various types of metals and carry out even the most delicate manipulations.

This is an excellent device for home use, suitable for construction or repair work, and can be taken with you on trips or for performing high-altitude procedures..

The duty cycle at the highest current point is 80%, so you can use the device for a long time without interruption. This is facilitated by a powerful cooling system.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 220 A.
3. Input voltage - 110-275 V.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 3.5 kg.

pros

• lightweight and compact;
• electrodes do not stick;
• minimum splashes.

Minuses

• not detected.

RESANTA SAI-250AD AC/DC

The model belongs to modern installations that can work with both direct current (to weld steel and various metals) and alternating current (to remove oxidation from non-ferrous metals).

The maximum current in both modes reaches 250 A. The device can be used not only indoors, but also outdoors, since it is not afraid of frosts down to minus ten and heat up to plus forty.

The manufacturer managed to achieve light weight and compact dimensions so that the user is not tied to one place and can transport the device as needed..

On the case there are parameter regulators, the indicators of which are displayed on a digital display. You can also see error codes there.

The model has good forced cooling, so the device can operate for a long time at high power.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 250 A.
3. Input voltage - 198-242 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 15 kg.

pros

• convenient control with precise settings;
• an affordable tool for a professional;
• wide range of equipment.

Minuses

• not detected.

What do you need to consider to get a quality seam?

In order to get a high result of your work, you must also consider the following points:

• The welder must have sufficient experience, since when welding, you need to hold the torch with one hand and apply the additive with the other hand (if necessary). Only a true professional can handle this task.
• Understanding the essence of the argon arc welding method and following the recommendations. In addition to dexterity and relevant skills, the welder must know that when using the TIG method, the torch should be held at a certain angle, namely 15-40 ° C relative to welding. Otherwise, the connection will be fragile and, as a result, unreliable.
• Welding machine. A guarantee of obtaining a high-quality seam, subject to the above points, is the use of reliable welding equipment. It is better to give preference to products from well-known brands that have long proven themselves on the Russian market on the positive side.

Principle of operation

Before choosing a semi-automatic welding machine or inverter for your home, you need to understand the principles of their operation.

Welding inverter

This is a device that replaced the transformer welding device, which increases the current by reducing the voltage. Unlike outdated units, the inverter is a small, high-frequency device. It consists of several elements:

1. Rectifier on diode bridges. Serves to convert alternating current to direct current.
2. High frequency pulse inverter. Increases the frequency to 60-80 Hz.
3. Transformer to reduce voltage and increase operating current.
4. Working adjustment shunt.
5. Electronic control unit.

The welding inverter has replaced the transformer device.

Semi-automatic welding machine

Arc welding on such machines occurs due to the welding wire, which acts as an electrode. It is supplied semi-automatically as it burns out. Moving the torch and adjusting the arc are done manually. Welding is carried out in an environment of carbon dioxide and inert gas, the flow rate of which is set depending on the material being processed. Switching on takes place using a gas valve. The current is supplied through wires laid in the burner hose.

This device includes:

• gas cylinder and control equipment;
• a device that regulates the supply of welding wire;
• cable-hose;
• burner;
• reel with wire feed mechanism;
• power supply;
• Control block;
• display board.

Semiautomatic welding machine is a device for performing the welding process with a consumable electrode.

Semi-automatic machines of inverter type

When an electric charge is converted into thermal energy released by a high-temperature arc, welding occurs with a semi-automatic inverter. The electrode for it is a calibrated copper wire. It glides well over metal and provides the necessary contact. The discharge, passing through it, heats the tip to the melting point. As a result, parts of the welded structures are connected with a tight seam.

Inverter-type semi-automatic devices convert electrical charge into thermal energy.

Conclusion

Argon welding is a technique for joining metal workpieces using an electric arc using argon. It avoids oxidation of the seams. Special welding machines are used for it. The method is used not only in construction, but also in everyday life

When choosing an argon welding machine, you need to pay attention to its power, the ability to finely adjust the current strength, operating modes, the ability to use alternating current, and degree of protection

• Inverter welding machines: types, model ratings, their pros and cons, how to choose the best one, tips for use and maintenance
• Welding electrodes: classification, marking, popular brands, storage rules, recommendations - which ones are best to choose for welding various metals
• How to use cold welding: instructions and tips, varieties, instructions for use

Wester MINI 220T (MMA)

​Photo: https://beru.ru

MINI 220T (MMA) from Wester is considered the smallest and easiest to operate. The power ratings of the device range from 30 to 220 A, and there is also decent power - 7 kW. The device is capable of working for a long time without stopping under significant loads and voltage sags. The front panel has a liquid crystal display, sensors for connecting to the power grid, and overload. There are functions of smooth adjustment, hot start, anti-stick, built-in thermal protection. The ventilation grilles are protected from scale. If you don’t yet know which welding machine is better, then take a look at this model.

Welding machine Wester MINI 220T (MMA)

Flaws:

no transport handle

This concludes our article about welding machines for welding aluminum. Happy shopping and making the right choice!

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