Inverter welders

[mortimersnerd]

Anyone out there have experience with inverter welders? I'm considering one of the Thermal Arc units over a traditional transformer welder. From some research they look to lay down a great MIG bead, and the ability to AC TIG and stick for comparable money to a Lincoln/Miller is a plus.

 

[Broncobowsher]

I have not tried that brand, but in general I am pleased with the invertor based stuff I have used at random times in the past. I am planning on an invertor based TIG machine in the future so they don't scare me off.

Got a link to exactly what you are looking at?

 

[mortimersnerd]

This:

http://victortechnologies.com/Thermal Arc 3in1/Fabricator 211i/product_features.php

I'm trying to decide between this and the Miller 211. The TA 211i is about $100 more and seems to be well regarded in terms of quality over on Weldingweb.

 

[HoosierDaddy]

I've used a portable stick only machine (120/230v) and was pretty impressed for what it was. I think it was a Miller Maxstar.

I'm thinking about getting something like that for home. Doesn't require a special electrical feed , will take up next to NO room on a shelf when not in use and should do about anything I'll ever need done on a Bronco.

I only stick at work , but I've heard MIG is a fast learn if you can stick and I've read that a MIG will work better on sheet metal than a stick.

Win/win/win it seems to me.


Gosh dang , I just looked up the price on the ThermalArc 3in1 you linked to , approx $1200 , that seems to be a great price point for everything you are getting!
I think the Maxstar costs that much , and it's stick only!

 

[mortimersnerd]

My thoughts exactly. I'm also reading that the inverter design can actually make for a better, easier arc than a more traditional transformer design since there is more circuitry keeping an eye on things. The down side is that they theoretically aren't as tough, but I'm not driving my welders around like some folks. MIG is easy, I taught myself enough to do attractive bodywork over the course of several evenings of practice. If you can stick, you can MIG. MIG is much better for sheet metal as it there is almost no splatter and less heat input, reducing warping.

 

[rustbucket]

I have a inverter TIG/Stick I got over 15 years ago that still work like the day I got it. It was bought from a ship supply company and was rebranded under their name. I believe the brand is Selco. Some Italian job. Only 110A/220V, so only for thin stuff.