It is very difficult to do without a welding machine when repairing a car or installing metal structures. When choosing a device for welding, amateurs and professionals try to focus on its performance, power and cost.
The difference between an inverter and a transformer
A few years ago, even a home-made model of a transformer welding machine aroused legitimate pride in its owner. But now welding inverters are of particular interest to welders. On specialized forums on the Internet, heated discussions are unfolding regarding the advantages and disadvantages of both types of devices. To make the right choice, you need to understand the features of the transformer and inverter.
Why are specialists not satisfied with the transformer? First of all, it is characterized by insufficient arc stability and low stability of the operating mode. The latter parameter significantly depends on voltage fluctuations in the network. In this respect, the inverter has undeniable advantages. It guarantees the presence of a stabilized current that does not depend on voltage fluctuations. Low spatter and steady arc observed during inverter operation.
The inverter differs from a conventional transformer in that it works on the principle of a welding rectifier. If the voltage frequency is high, the overall size and weight of the device will be minimal to provide the same power. For this, rectifiers and control elements are included in the inverter circuit. Experts say that working with an inverter itself is much more pleasant than handling a transformer.
Inverter advantages
What determines this respect from consumers for the inverter? It is more convenient to work with an inverter, since it makes it possible to smoothly regulate the welding current. Some models have additional functions to control this operating parameter. For example, to start welding without any delays and auxiliary touches of the workpiece with the electrode, the “hot start” function is used, which increases the current at the initial phase of welding.
For those who have to use welding not from time to time, but regularly, it is very important that the inverter, in contrast to the transformer, consumes significantly less electrical energy. For this reason, it can be connected without unnecessary hassle to a household network or to an autonomous power source, for example, to a diesel installation.
The choice of the welding unit is undoubtedly influenced by the physical parameters. The big advantage of the inverter is its small size and low weight. This can be achieved by increasing the voltage frequency. Some inverter models can be easily carried on the shoulder, because such a "baby" weighs no more than three to four kilograms, while allowing you to work with standard electrodes. It is much more difficult for a physically trained welder to operate a transformer.
