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A detailed buying guide: how to choose an inverter welder.
This section covers electric welding devices: inverter and transformer MMA welders, MIG/MAG welders, TIG and multi-process welders, plasma cutters, resistance spot welders and spotters for car body repair, and welding accessories such as electrode holders, ground clamps and magnetic squares. They are used for steel structures, gates, pipes, car bodies and general repair jobs. For an overview, read what electrical equipment is and how it is classified.
MMA (stick) welding is the most common process and suits mild steel, outdoor work and windy conditions. A MIG/MAG welder with wire and shielding gas produces a fast, neat weld on thin metal and car bodies, while TIG welding with argon gives a precise weld on stainless steel and thin parts. A multi-process welder combines several processes in one unit. See: how to choose a MIG/MAG welder and how to choose a TIG welder.
The maximum current determines how thick the metal and how large the electrode can be. A 3 mm electrode usually needs about 80–120 A and a 4 mm electrode 130–170 A, so 160–200 A is often enough for home use, while thick metal and heavy work call for 250 A or more. Learn more: how to choose welding current.
The duty cycle shows what percentage of a 10-minute cycle the welder can weld at a given current without overheating. For example, 60% means 6 minutes of welding and 4 minutes of cooling. Compare this figure at the same current. Read: what is the PV or ED duty-cycle rating and what is duty cycle.
Household inverters run on a 220 V supply, while powerful industrial models may need 380 V. If your mains voltage drops, choose a welder with a wide permitted voltage range, use an extension cord with an adequate cross-section, and keep a power reserve when running from a generator. See: volt (V), how to choose a transformer, power supply, voltage stabilizer, UPS and inverter, how to use an extension cord safely and how to choose an engine-driven welder generator.
An MMA welder uses consumable electrodes whose type and diameter depend on the metal and its thickness. For a MIG/MAG welder, check the supported wire diameter, spool size and shielding gas (CO₂ or a mix). Models that support flux-cored wire can work without a gas cylinder. Guide: how to choose welding electrodes, wire and shielding gas.
Hot Start makes arc ignition easier, Arc Force keeps the arc stable when the electrode gets closer to the work, and Anti-Stick prevents the electrode from sticking. The VRD function lowers the open-circuit voltage and improves safety. Read about Hot Start, Arc Force, Anti-Stick and VRD functions.
An inverter welder should have overheating and overload protection, an effective cooling fan and a sturdy housing. For site and workshop use, weight, a carrying handle and dust protection also matter. Learn more: what is motor thermal protection.
The electrode holder and ground clamp must be rated for the welder's maximum current, and the cross-section and length of the welding cables must match the working current. Magnetic squares help hold parts at the required angle. Guide: how to choose electrode holders, ground clamps, welding cables and magnetic squares.
A resistance spot welder joins sheets without electrodes or wire, while a spotter welds washers to a car body so dents can be pulled out. A plasma cutter cuts steel, stainless steel and non-ferrous metals quickly and cleanly; when choosing one, compare cutting thickness, current and compressor requirements. Learn more: how to choose a spotter for car body repair and how to choose a plasma cutter.
When welding, wear a helmet with an auto-darkening filter, welding gloves and flame-resistant clothing, provide ventilation and remove flammable materials from the work area. Read: how to use a welder safely and how to choose welding PPE.
At ToolsArmenia you can compare welding devices by welding process, maximum current, duty cycle and power supply, and choose the right accessories for your jobs.
