The main types of welding machines. Types of welding equipment, their advantages and disadvantages

Such equipment is designed for joining metal parts by welding. The basis of any device is a power source. Its main task is to convert the value of the incoming voltage into current for welding with the required parameters. According to their power indicators, welding equipment can be divided into household and professional equipment.

What are the types of welding machines

They are metal cases with grounding. On the front wall there is a dashboard and terminals to which the electrode holder and cable line are connected to ground. Based on the type of power source, the following types of welding machines are distinguished:

Types of inverter welding machines

The most affordable cost can be called an inverter for welding work MMA-200 KEDR. It does not differ in large dimensions, it welds centimeter-thick structures. Works on carbon and stainless material, cast iron. The equipment is equipped with protection against overheating and power surges. Such welding costs about 10,000 rubles.

NEON VD-161 is considered the most reliable among household inverters. Its cost is 9,000 rubles. It is used for argon-arc welding, it has a special torch in the kit. Work can be performed with electrodes of various types.
The inverter rectifier PRO ARG-180 Svarog is known for the longest warranty and improved service:

It costs almost fourteen thousand rubles. It can be powered by diesel or gasoline generating devices, protected from overheating and power surges.

DC welding machines

Fubag IQ 180 direct current welding machine. Able to operate at a maximum welding current of 180 A, welding type - manual arc.

ELITECH IS 220 costs a little more than nine thousand rubles. Works at a voltage of 160 V, weighs five and a half kilograms. Is different high level stability of the welding eye even in cases where voltage fluctuations are observed in the network. It has the function of adjusting the strength of the welded arc. The package includes a cable for grounding and an electrode holder.
PECANTA SAI 160 K has two fan devices for forced cooling at once, one of which works on the case, the second one - on the power plant. The cost of such a device is 5,600 rubles. The kit includes an electrode holder and a ground cable.

Advantages of inverters

Today it is the most contemporary sources welded current, which are distinguished by reliability and do not have power transformer devices in their design. The principle of voltage phase shift, which is under control, makes it possible to obtain an almost ideal current, which does not have pulsation and noise, which allows welding metal with high quality.
Inverters, unlike transformers, are compact and convenient, they depend little on the input potential, they give out high voltage at idle, they work quickly, with good quality.

They can be considered a successful replacement for many transformers familiar to many.
Today, if there is a need to work with alternating current, everyone is trying to buy inverter devices, since classic transformers can only produce a constant current value.

There are so many welding devices today that it can be difficult to choose the most best option. For this reason, you should only choose from famous brands that exactly match the stated requirements.

The use of welding in everyday life is quite frequent. Welding operations are performed by a unit operating at the expense of a power transformer, which is the central structural element in the device.

Units for welding have not only advantages, at the same time, the presence of operational disadvantages can also be distinguished. The use of welding inverters in everyday life is associated with a qualitative leap in the field of welding. What is this unit?

Features of the operation of welding inverters

The choice of the inverter of the desired model is determined by the relevant technical characteristics. Lack of knowledge about all the design features of welding inverters will prevent quality choice. The difference between welding inverters is their special mobility, that is, they can be easily moved over a certain area and raised to a certain height.

The universal welding inverter allows you to work with any electrodes that support direct or alternating current. In this case, non-consumable electrodes can be used, that is, argon arc welding. You can adjust the inverter current in a wide range. The unit provides special functions that the device can successfully implement:

1. Prevent sticking process (Arc Force).
2. Reduce current during short circuit for minimum values ​​(Anti-Sticking).
3. Provide ignition for the electrode (Hot start).

Disadvantages that can be identified:

1. The cable length must be no more than 2.5 m, which is a limitation.
2. The required temperature range will be determined by the type of inverter.
3. The "internal" circuit needs constant cleaning from dust.
4. The high cost of the inverter, which costs twice as much as the transformer.

Some of the models cannot be used in winter cold conditions, like any electronics. The counterargument that opposes the shortcomings is the versatility of the inverter and the convenience in its operation. At the same time, the method of mastering the method of working with a welding inverter is the simplest, and therefore accessible to many customers.

inverters received wide application thanks to the diversity of all characteristics, which help to perform excellent welding of both metals and alloys. The properties of inverters depend on the type of welding that is typical for a particular model:

1. Manual arc.
2. Automatic.
3. semi-automatic.

The inverter performs not only the process of welding metals, but also cutting. The inverter device differs in its design features depending on the type of welding.

Main technical characteristics of inverters

The power indicator is one of the main technical characteristics inherent in any inverter model. Due to the indicator of power consumption, the values ​​of the indicator and the range of its changes are determined, within which the current values ​​change. The maximum current value for welding is an indicator exceeding 300 A. If the inverter is with a low power indicator, then the technical characteristics are adjusted in the range of 10-130 A.

The maximum welding current can not only affect the welding speed, but also allows you to use welding electrodes With different size diameter. This is an automatic process, since the regulation of the welding speed is not related to its indication on the sensors of the device.

Due to the increased welding current a quick transition of the metal composition of the electrode to the welded edge is possible. Welding performance does not depend on its speed. This is due to the fact that the welding process is more focused on setting up and fitting the parts needed for welding. This can take a very long time, as well as to remove the slag that has accumulated on the welds.

Inherent welding machine specifications, which are able to protect it from external influences, are reduced to the properties:

1. Shockproof.
2. Moisture protection.
3. dustproof.

For each inverter model, a level of temperature operating range is provided, which is determined during the production of the unit. If the room is cold, then after storing the inverters in it, they may not turn on.

Specific technical specifications of inverters

The devices have a number of important characteristics that allow cutting metal using the air-arc type of cutting.

They can be used simultaneously in the manual welding process. For this purpose, the welding current is adjusted by selecting the polarity value. Calculation home appliance necessary in a half-hour interval, subject to continuous arcing.

If the interval of the continuous operation process is chosen to be small, then this allows the use of power elements with transistor switches having low power. These technical characteristics are decisive for the cost of welding inverters and their sizes.

The presence of other characteristics of the inverter device and its capabilities will not affect the quality of the welds after the operation of the unit is completed. Separation various models inverters on this basis is considered conditional.

The principle of operation of welding equipment

Technical characteristics of industrial and household appliances

In the process of operation of a modern inverter, the principle of double conversion is used. If you do not delve into all the nuances of the operation of the unit, which only a specialist can understand, you can dwell on the main point associated with the AC frequency parameter. At the input of the unit, the current is rectified, and then, having passed the filter, it passes to the transistor assembly, where it is converted. Therefore, the generated high-frequency current will have parameters that are determined by the type of model.

The maximum value of the current in / h is 50 kHz. This result is associated with a feature that reduces to abrupt increases in current strength. For this reason, small-sized transformers with low weight are used in welding machines. A conventional welding machine and an inverter transformer have a weight difference that fluctuates in the range of several tens of times, which determines the small dimensions of the device.

Inverters can be used not only in industrial conditions, but also in everyday life, as they are provided different kinds welding. This criterion allows us to divide inverters into four main types, of which only a device with the abbreviation MMA (“manual arc”) is suitable for household welding. The purpose of other types of inverters is associated with a more complex technological process welding.

The electrodes used in the MMA device for welding at home can be ordinary, it all depends on the size of the element. The thickness of the metal to be welded is determined by the brand of the electrode, that is, its cross section.

Given the parameters that determine the voltage and power of the device, it is best to use a device that is connected to ordinary outlets. In any case, they are designed for devices with a power of not more than 4 kW. This is what you need to rely on when buying welding inverters, since it will not be necessary to install a separate outlet, limiting the possible mobility of the device, since it may be needed everywhere.

At the same time, it is necessary to pay attention to the current frequency parameter: the larger this indicator, the lighter and more compact the device. A maximum current of 160 A will suffice.

The ability of the device to work continuously is reduced to one welding operation in 15 minutes, after which you can start the next one. The higher the voltage of the device at " idling”, the easier the arc will start. Among the additional functions, current rectification can be distinguished, as a result of which a high-quality seam is obtained when the metal is heated.

Since the inverter can be moved by manual carrying, an additional “suitcase” is attached to the unit. This type of device "does not like" dust and dirt, so you need to pay special attention to this moment by asking the seller how to take care of the inverter. However, you should ask about the possibility of repairing the unit.

How to choose the right inverter?

When buying, you should prepare for the worst. If you take into account this rule, then it will never fail, so you should first ask the seller the appropriate question about where this model can be repaired by service maintenance and warranty repairs.

For anyone ordinary person it is clear that no one will repair the device if it is not provided with the appropriate warranty. Therefore, before buying, you should ask all relevant questions to the seller, which should be related to the relationship between the manufacturer and the store.

All technical and general issues must be clarified with particular care, otherwise the time the unit is under warranty repair may increase. All of the above aspects should be considered so that the appropriate choice is made by the beginner and not just by the professional.

Other properties of welding inverters include those that will not be useful to unprepared buyers. If there are any doubts in the process of choosing an inverter, it is advisable to speak with an expert practitioner. It is necessary to comprehend that when evaluating welding inverters according to a certain technical characteristic, you may not come to the best choice. It is necessary to carefully and comprehensively examine the properties of the device, finding out how to best use it, focusing first on the purpose of buying the device.

One thing is everyday professional work, and the other is the use of the device in everyday life. It is possible that the device will be used infrequently, but only for the purpose of carrying out light operations. It makes no sense to pay extra money for a multifunctional welding inverter, the potential of which will not be used in practice.

How to read the list of characteristics correctly?

For a more complete technical specification, a list is needed that provides for each element with units of measurement. The table is for the KEMPPI MINARC EVO150 model.

For example, in the row of the table, the information "Рnom at Imax PV 35% TIG 150 A / 3.2 kW" reads as follows. When using arc welding, the maximum amperage level is 150 A and the rated power at this amperage is 3.2 kW, if the load is (ED) 35% in a shielded gas environment. This device must have effective system cooling.

The supply network must have a voltage level and an appropriate frequency, which are determined by those values ​​that are characteristic of the RF. The welding inverter has a limit of the permissible level when the voltage drops, which is 180 V. The required current strength during welding is maintained by the smooth adjustment of the device or the stabilizer that is built into it.

Deciphering the abbreviation of the characteristics of the device

Consider the values ​​of characteristics that are associated with the abbreviation MMA, TIG, MIG / MAG, PAC, PV. The characteristics of the inverter, abbreviated as TIG, PV and MMA, need to be considered separately. TIG (tungsten inert gas) means in English: an arc welding method using an electrode on an additive that is refractory. With a protective environment of argon or other types of gases that are inert. This kind of electrode is applicable when welding metals or alloys.

PV - means the duration of the inclusion. Meaning given parameter indicated as a percentage and is determined by the ratio of the duration of working time under load conditions to the total time, which includes the total amount of time the device has been working under load, as well as pauses.

The total time is a value of 5 minutes. Optimal value PV reaching 80% is considered to be 1 minute of break and 4 minutes of work. If the time of work under load increases, then this leads to the fact that the thermal protection in the control unit of the unit is activated. The designation MMA stands for metal manual arc, which is translated from English as “manual welding with a replaceable electrode”.

For example, if we consider in the table above the line with the content “Pout. (to = 40°C) MMA PV 100% 100A / 24.0V”, then it will have information about the output power of the welding machine Pout. including its performance during continuous operation due to replaceable electrodes in manual mode at a full load of 5 minutes, at a current of 100 A and a voltage of 24 V.

Radiator cooling occurs at a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius in environment. Comparing the same names indicated in the list for different models, it is realistic to draw a conclusion about how effective the indicators inherent in the cooling system are.

The characteristics of different devices may contain an abbreviation: PAC, MIG or MAG (metal inert / active gas), which in English means semi-automatic welding using wire in the presence of an inert gas environment with a protective function, such as argon or carbon dioxide, which is active. Devices equipped with this function have:

1. Welding torch for automatic operation.
2. Wire feeders.
3. Hose responsible for supplying gas in the presence of a shut-off valve.

The last element is synchronized with the operation of the gas supply system to where the gas cylinder is attached.

The abbreviation PAC (plasma arc cutting) means plasma-arc cutting. This method is associated with the process of removing the alloy from the working area of ​​the welding arc through a nozzle with compressed air. The use of oxygen-based preheating for the greatest efficiency can sufficiently improve the speed of the cut and its quality.

It is necessary to separately consider the meanings of the abbreviation for the constituent elements, that is, their technical characteristics.

An experienced welder, if he needs to choose a welding machine, will rely on his experience of past years and stop his eyes on the best and most reliable unit. For novice welders who, as a rule, find it difficult to choose a welding machine, this article is intended.

First you need to get acquainted with what types of welding machines are. There are a lot of them, but we will consider the most common ones. The most popular are manual welding machines, which use electrodes of different diameters. There are also such as:
- machines for mechanical welding, which use a consumable electrode;
- devices that conduct argon-arc welding, that is, non-consumable electrodes;
- using an automatically melting electrode in combination with flux;
— welding transformers;
— welding generators;
— welding inverters;
- devices that conduct contact-spot welding.
We will now take a closer look at the latter view.

Welding AC transformers

Types of welding machines can be described starting with AC welding transformers. They work with the help of consumable metal electrodes. The unit is not very expensive and is great for welding ferrous metals with overlap and butt. The design of such a welding machine is quite reliable and it is very easy to operate. Rutile or calcium fluoride coated electrodes are used. The operating voltage is 220V, but for different voltages, it usually provides for adjusting the current strength, moreover, the choice of its indicator depends on the size of the electrode.

DC welding machines

Such devices are used with consumable electrodes and they differ from those described above in more complex design which makes it more expensive. The output current of such a unit is constant and it is obtained due to the use of a diode and thyristor rectifier in the circuit. True, this state of affairs affects the power that is lost. However, the presence of direct current makes it possible to obtain a stable arc. This welding machine allows you to work with both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, you just need to choose the right electrodes. This unit is useful for professional welders, and a simpler welding machine is more suitable for personal home ownership.

Welding machines operating in an active or inert gas environment

If we talk about such a topic as types of welding machines, then we cannot mention such units. They are needed for semi-automatic welding. These devices are versatile and are used for domestic needs, as well as for auto repair. They are expensive, but they have high performance, are reliable and convenient. It works with or without gas and consists of a rectifier, a transformer, a reducer, a wire drive and a sleeve with a torch. It is possible to install a wire spool directly on the machine, as for its choice, it depends on what material is used for welding. It should also be borne in mind that different metals require different gases for welding, for example, for iron - carbon dioxide, and for steel - a mixture of argon and carbon dioxide.

Inverter welding machines

At this time, they are very popular and the most modern. They are small in size and light in weight. Among the indisputable advantages: high voltage frequency, autonomy, compactness, high performance. Apparently that's why it's so expensive.

Reading time: 7 minutes

In modern stores you can find a wide variety of types of welding equipment. Expensive, cheap, domestic, foreign, for home welding, for professional welding ... How to choose among a wide variety and not make a mistake by spending a considerable amount? And is it worth buying an expensive welder at all?

If the topic of choosing welding equipment is new to you, then this article will help you understand the issue. You will learn what types of welding machines exist and their applications, as well as which machine to choose if you are a beginner, a practicing welder or a home welder.

There are many types of welding machines designed to perform certain jobs. We won't list them all as there is no need to. Below is a brief classification from which you will learn about the most popular types of welding equipment.

Transformer

welding transformer is the most primitive and oldest species welder. His character traits- this is a lot of weight, large dimensions and almost unlimited power.

The transformer does not have any microcircuits, or any other "smart" stuffing. All his work is based on the simplest principles of electrical engineering. Due to this, transformers are extremely durable, practically do not break, and if they are already broken, they are easily repaired “on the knee” on their own.

In addition, due to the almost unlimited power, transformers can be used both when welding thin metals and when working with thick parts. But the difficulties in using a transformer begin at the very beginning of work ...

To set up such a simple parameter as current strength, you need to know the basics of electrical engineering, understand what inductive reactance and thyristors are. There is no “magic” button or knob with which you can set the desired value, as in an inverter or semi-automatic device.

Another difficulty when working with a transformer is the impossibility of welding on DC, since the transformer only outputs a "change". What does it mean? This means that you will not be able to weld aluminum, stainless steel and any other non-ferrous metals. In addition, the arc does not burn very unstable and is poorly ignited. And this is an additional problem for a beginner.

Do not forget about the dimensions, which we have already mentioned in passing. The transformer must be transported on a trolley. You will not be able to throw it in the trunk of a car or climb high with it.

Are there any merits? Yes. Low price, big power and incredible maintainability. Also, many old school welders love transformers because they once trained and worked with them. After all, there was simply no alternative.

inverter

Due to the modern "stuffing" inverters come in a wide variety of sizes. From ultra compact ones that fit in a backpack to bulky powerful machines designed for a stationary welding station.

Therefore, the range of inverters is extremely large. Need a welding machine? No problem, there are inverters weighing no more than 5 kilograms on sale. Need a powerful machine to work with thick parts? This is not a problem either. And this does not mean that a small low-power inverter will cost less than a large-sized one. The price just depends on the manufacturer.

What else are microchips capable of? Thanks to them, manufacturers have learned to implement additional functions in inverters. And often this is not a marketing ploy, but really useful options. With these features, you can get the most efficiency, simplify your work and improve the quality of welds.

That is why inverter welding machines are so used by beginners. But what summer residents will like is the ability to work even with unstable or low voltage.

But all this technology has its drawbacks. The first of them is expensive repairs and, in general, frequent breakdowns. To qualitatively repair the inverter welder, you need to go to service center or to good master. And this is not a cheap service.

At the same time, anything can lead to breakdowns. Starting from dust that got through the cooling grill, ending with incorrect settings or careless storage. Any difference in temperature and humidity can lead to breakdowns. And dust settles on the cooling system without any problems and disables the electronics.

What else will surprise you unpleasantly is the price of a quality inverter. Chinese manufacturers literally rivet cheap welders that work a couple of times at full strength, and then overheat or simply fail. It is logical that the purchase of such a device is meaningless. But to buy a high-quality inverter from a European brand, you need to pay a tidy sum. Often it is much higher than the price of the same transformer.

But, despite all these shortcomings, inverters are popular. It's all about variety and functionality. They are convenient and easy to use, even a novice welder can handle them.

semi-automatic

This is a kind of inverter, but with added functionality. In addition to all standard options, the semi-automatic machine also has a feed system welding wire and protective gas. Semi-automatic machines are in principle used only for gas-shielded welding using wire. Some models have the possibility of conventional arc welding, like an inverter, but this is an additional feature.

The device got its name because of the peculiarities of the feed mechanism. The mechanism feeds the wire in a semi-automatic mode. The welder manually fills the filler material and sets the feed rate, and the mechanism follows the commands. Therefore, such equipment is called semi-automatic.

In addition to semi-automatic machines, there are also automatic machines or automatic equipment. It differs only in the degree of mechanization. Here, the feed mechanism itself decides how fast to feed the wire. That is, it does it automatically.

Thanks to the use of gas in semi-automatic welding, the seams are truly high-quality and durable. You can cook everything from stainless steel to non-ferrous metals. The quality of the seams in any case will be excellent. But only if you already have experience.

Are there any disadvantages of this type of device? Of course. Modern semi-automatic and automatic machines, although technologically advanced, are still very bulky. Not as big as a transformer, but you can't hang them on your shoulder either. The situation becomes more complicated, which, depending on the volume, also needs to be somehow transported from place to place. A separate problem is the price. It is even higher than when buying an inverter.

Which welding machine to choose?

Now you know what types of welding machines exist. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, as well as characteristics. For example, semi-automatic welding and inverters differ not only in design, but also in the scope.

However, the question of choice remains open. What is the best welder? Let's figure it out.

To choose a welding machine, you need to know what kind of welding you are going to do. If you are a beginner welder who plans to develop your skills, then we recommend buying a powerful inverter or a semi-automatic device from the middle price category (from $300 to $500).

If you home craftsman who is going to cook simple structures (for example, a greenhouse) or repair hardware, then it is better to buy a budget compact inverter that can be hung on your shoulder. With it, you can move around the entire suburban area.

If there is very little money, but you want to learn the basics of welding, while you are not afraid of difficulties, then a transformer will do. If you can add some money, it's better to buy a simple inverter right away. The transformer has too many flaws and nuances that complicate the work. This is the choice for those who are not looking for easy ways.

Well, professionals in their field probably already know what equipment to choose 😉

Instead of a conclusion

We have listed the main types of welding equipment that are used most often. What to choose - you decide. Rely not only on your budget, but also on the technical characteristics of the welding machine, and also take into account the front of the upcoming welding work. Agree, you should not buy an expensive semi-automatic device in order to cook a fence in the country a couple of times a year. Similarly, you should not buy a cheap inverter if you want to cook something more complicated than a greenhouse. We wish you good luck in your work!

It is always interesting for anyone who wants to curb welding or an already experienced professional welder to know how to improve work, make it easier and more convenient. In this regard, we single out and consider the main types.

Types of welding machines

Relying on design features, as well as the principle of operation of modern welding machines can be distinguished certain types welding machines.

Types of welding machines:

1. welding transformer;
2. welding inverter;
3. Semi-automatic welding;
4. Welding machine for argon arc welding;
5. Welder.

welding transformer

Definition

- a machine that converts electricity, which regulates this indicator for a stable supply of an electric arc.

Operating principle

On the core-magnetic circuit of such an apparatus, the primary and secondary windings are located, which are in a stationary state. Also, one winding can be fixed statically, while the other can move freely along the core relative to the first.

Due to this movement, the electric current is regulated. Other ways to adjust the welding current can also take place. The welding transformer works as a step-down transformer.

Advantages and disadvantages

It is worth highlighting the following advantages of a transformer for welding:

• Structural simplicity;
• Ease of use;
• High reliability;
• Low cost;
• Ease of maintenance.

Flaws:

• Significant dimensions;
• Significant mass.

Conclusion

The welding process is achieved by using alternating current, which negatively affects the quality of the weld at the end of work. There are some tricky moments in the process of keeping the electric arc in operation. A transformer-type apparatus is often used to connect parts made of low-alloy steels.

Welding rectifiers

Definition

The devices are a power source, which consists of a transformer with a regulating device, as well as a rectifier unit.

Operating principle

The principle operation of the device is based on the supply of an electric arc with direct current, which flows through the secondary winding and passes through the rectifier unit of silicon or selenium rectifiers. To get a foot characteristic, a device of this type is often equipped with an additional throttle.

It should be noted that the arc of such devices has sufficient stability, continuity, with the help of which the welder is able to perform high-quality welding. The device is available for work even for a beginner in welding.

Advantages:

1. The rectifier makes it possible to produce high-quality work, while the welder does not have to have skills;
2. Under the conditions of use, the device with the necessary equipment, as well as equipment, the device can connect cast iron parts, and even elements of non-ferrous metals;
3. Stable arc burning;
4. Possibility of connecting low-alloyed and stainless steels.

Conclusion

Rectifier welding machine allows you to work with various materials, and, therefore, is an excellent assistant, both in the household and in professional activities.

Welding inverter

Definition

An inverter-type welding machine is a device that operates at an increased frequency.

Operating principle

The device was created for welding under conditions of stable voltage caused by the use of electric generators, as well as long connecting wires. Inverter-type devices are often equipped with protection against power surges and sticking of electrodes. A hot start function is available to facilitate welding. Also, an automatic power stabilizer monitors the absence of overheating of the device.

Modern inverters are able to operate under voltage drops in the range of 160-270 V. It is also worth noting that many of them are equipped with a ventilation cooling system. Thus it becomes possible use devices for coupling heavy structures, under significant loads, in industrial conditions. In fact, the inverter is a universal welding machine.

Advantages:

• Essential increase in efficiency power supply due to the high-tech component of the inverter;
• Small weight and dimensions;
• High-frequency devices make it possible to provide excellent technological properties, as well as a control limit;
• High stability of the electric arc;
• As a result of welding, a high-quality and even weld is produced;
• Ability to work with a wide range of currents;
• Ability to work under high load;
• Simplicity and ease of use;
• Ability to weld using all known types of electrodes.

Conclusion

The device of the inverter type allows the possibility of operation in professional, amateur activities.

semi-automatic

Definition

The semi-automatic welding machine is operated using direct or pulsed current in a shielding gas environment, or using a specialized wire without the participation of a gas environment.

Operating principle

From the feed mechanism, the electrode wire is fed through a flexible hose into the holder, which is in the hand of the welder. Shielding gas (argon, carbon dioxide or a mixture of them). The absence of the need for a cylinder when using a special protective wire is quite acceptable.

Advantages:

• High quality welded seam;
• Minor splashes;
• High performance;
• Possibility of welding thin metals.

Conclusion

The devices are widely used in car repair. Types of apparatus for body work allow not to reduce corrosion resistance, as well as strength. A high-quality seam after working with the device does not need to be cleaned of flux scale.

Apparatus for argon arc welding

Definition

An apparatus of this type uses tungsten non-consumable electrodes in its work, and argon or helium acts as a protective gas.

Principle of operation

A filler wire may be used during welding. The argon arc welding unit operates on direct current, alternating current or pulsed current. Fastening parts is achieved by using tungsten non-consumable electrodes. The protective gas medium is argon or helium. The main purpose of the device is welding of stainless steels, aluminum, brass, copper, titanium, and magnesium alloys.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

• Exceptional weld quality;
• Welding capability various metals and alloys.

Flaws:

• The complexity of setting up the device;
• Requirements for the qualification level of the welder.

Conclusion

If there is a need for welding non-ferrous metals along with high professionalism, the device is designed specifically for you.

Welding units

Definition

The welding unit is a machine with automatic power supply. In some cases, a welding unit is a rather profitable device.

Operating principle

The design of the device contains a rather complex electromechanical device that combines the engine internal combustion, powerful generator, mechanical energy obtained due to the rotation of the engine crankshaft, as well as the necessary systems for ensuring its operation.

The mechanical energy obtained by rotating the engine crankshaft is converted by the generator into the required parameter (electric current) through a rectifier. The indicators of the rectifier, in turn, are responsible for the stability of the welding arc.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

• Possibility of use in the absence of a centralized electrical supply;
• High quality welding.

Flaws:

• Significant dimensions;
• Large mass;
• Difficulty of use.

Conclusion

Applications in living conditions welding generator is quite inconvenient. However, in the absence of electricity, the generator is an indispensable device.