subject: Learning How To Weld: Transformer Or Inverter? [print this page] May 8, 2012, Pittsburgh, PAMay 8, 2012, Pittsburgh, PA. When you are learning how to weld there will come a time when you have to buy your first welder. Many people ask about the differences between welding with a transformer machine versus an inverter machine. Weld.com and Mr. TIG have set out to answer that very question in the fifth episode of TIG Time, Transformer or Inverter? That is the Question.
The first (and most obvious) difference is the size of the machine. When you look at the two side by side, you can see that the transformer machine is about three to four times bigger than its inverter counterpart. In the case of welding machines, despite what the old adage might say, bigger is not always better. Lets take a look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of the two machines that Mr. TIG is comparing in this episode of TIG Time.
Transformer:
Will allow you to weld AC/ DC All metals can be welded
Operates off a wall circuit of 208 or 230 Requires a 50 AMP circuit
About 200 lbs
Fixed frequency when welding aluminum
Low cost
Inverter:
Will allow you to weld AC/ DC All metals can be welded
Operates off of 115 volts OR 220 Internal Smart Link allows for either or
Can operate off of a 15 amp circuit OR a 30 amp circuit
Variable frequency when welding aluminum Chokes down the arc making it smaller (easier to weld aluminum)
Expensive
To see the video and learn other TIG welding tips, visit the TIG Time series on Weld.com or subscribe to the Weld.com YouTube Channel. Every week we make and publish videos on our YouTube Channel which you will also see on weld.com. On our website homepage, we feature video of the month. Learn from Mr Tig in this section, connect with other professionals in the industry. Our website is still free registration at the moment, so hurry up.
Author Bio:
Todd Clouser is the Marketing and Social Media Specialist for Weld.com, Your Connection to the Universe of Welding. With a broad knowledge of social media and emerging marketing technologies, he is determined to create a resource in Weld.com that proves to be an unrivaled asset to the industry.
