TOP 15 best argon arc welding machines (TIG): rating 2020-2021 and which functional model to choose

Rating of the TOP 15 best argon arc welding machines (TIG) 2020-2021

How to choose a argon arc welding machine (TIG)?

When purchasing, pay special attention to the following parameters:

1. Weight and dimensions . This is relevant if you regularly need to transport the device.
2. Type of metal and welding current . To work with steel and other durable metals, devices operating with direct current are required. For non-ferrous metals, aluminum, for example, alternating current is required.
3. Current range . Indicates the available thickness of material that can be worked with. It is better to choose devices with a range from 10 to 200-250 A, this will make your purchase universal.
4. Duration of switching on . This parameter indicates the operating time at maximum power.

What equipment is used for argon welding of stainless steel

For argon welding of stainless steel you need:

• Inverter welding current source (welding inverter) is a power source for the welding arc, ensuring its stable combustion. Its choice depends on the scope of work and the properties of the metal. Experts advise using a source operating on rectified current for stainless steel.
• An oscillator is an electronic device that maintains and stabilizes the welding arc when using a non-consumable tungsten electrode.
• Burner and conductive assembly - includes a gas nozzle and a non-consumable electrode.
• Argon or its mixtures with other gases is supplied from cylinders where it is under pressure.
• Non-consumable electrodes - currently, electrodes for argon welding of corrosion-resistant stainless steel are widely available on the market. The choice depends on the seam and the properties of the material.
• Filler wire – selected depending on the grade of stainless steel.
• Overalls - overalls, gloves and mask. As well as products for treating stainless steel - degreaser and wire brush.

TOP 5 best argon arc welding machines (TIG) by price/quality for 2021

Svarog REAL SMART ARC 200 (Z28303) BLACK (TIG, MMA)

An affordable model with universal functionality, which will be sufficient for both home use and work in a small workshop..

Thanks to the reliable device, this device can be easily mastered not only by a professional or experienced user, but also by a beginner.

Capable of operating in two modes: manual and synergetic mode . The latter allows you to abandon the tedious selection of parameters, independently tuning to the desired current supply format.

The model has good equipment, which includes not only a welding machine, but also an operator mask with a light filter, leggings, an electric holder, and electrodes with a diameter of 2.5 mm.

And the instructions will help you set up and use all the elements correctly. The parameters are displayed on a digital display, there is a current regulator on the side, and keys at the bottom for activating functions and modes.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Input voltage - 140-270 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 3.8 kg.

pros

• convenient display;
• the ability to customize the device for yourself;
• reliable design;
• price-quality ratio;
• powerful cooling.

Minuses

• The Antistatic function, which eliminates electrode sticking, sometimes fails.

FoxWeld InverMIG 205 (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)

A good option for performing welding work in a small car service center or in your own garage.

Welding is carried out with direct current; for this, the company’s specialists use inverter technology to convert and control the welding current.

Thanks to her, it was possible to obtain a tool that is not only functional, but also small in weight and size..

The efficiency of the device is estimated by experts at 85%.

The input voltage is produced in the range of 187-253 V, and at idle it is about 60 V. Due to the fact that this model is semi-automatic, it is possible to achieve ideal welding parameters, even if the incoming voltage drops significantly.

Well suited for welding parts with small thickness . The arc is ignited by touch; there is also an inductance adjustment, with which you can control the power of the device.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Input voltage - 187-253 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 4.1 kg.

pros

• a good option for working with small thicknesses;
• convenient control;
• good equipment;
• compactness, light weight.

Minuses

• not detected.

Aurora Dynamics 200 (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)

The advantage of this model is that it is a professional device, but does not cost exorbitant amounts of money..

This is an inverter semi-automatic machine capable of operating in three modes with a maximum current of 160, 180 and 200 A.

Experts estimate the efficiency at 90 percent, which is an excellent indicator of functionality . All parameter settings are carried out using one knob.

Thanks to microprocessor control, it is possible to maintain the voltage at a constant level, without a sharp drop.

Synergetics allows you to trust a smart device, but the manufacturer has left the opportunity to manually adjust the parameters if necessary..

Another plus is economical energy consumption. The developers did not forget about the high-quality cooling system.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Power - 6.20 kW.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 9.2 kg.

pros

• microprocessor control;
• three types of work;
• good efficiency.

Minuses

• low PV - 30 percent.

Fubag IRMIG 160 SYN (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)

The device belongs to the advanced semi-automatic inverter type, in which the current indicators at the peak moment reach 160 A.

This is enough to weld ordinary and non-ferrous metal up to 8 mm thick. The package includes a gas burner to operate in an active or inert gas atmosphere.

Wire is used whose diameter is in the range of 0.8-1 mm.

The wire spool is placed inside the device; on its front side there is a handle for controlling the speed of wire unwinding.

You can adjust both the current and all operating parameters in MIG mode to suit your needs..

It is worth noting the effective cooling system, which protects all the main elements from overheating. The duration of switching on at peak load reaches 60%.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 160 A.
3. Input voltage - 187-253 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 12 kg.

pros

• three types of work;
• the handle does not slip in the hand;
• The package includes a burner.

Minuses

• not detected.

Aurora SPEEDWAY 180 (TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA)

The device is a logical continuation of the line of professional products from this brand.

It is capable of operating in three modes, the current power for all of them reaches 180 A. At the same time, the efficiency is estimated at 85 percent.

The semi-automatic machine is controlled synergistically, setting welding parameters has become available using only one regulator.

This device is recommended not only for domestic use, but also for medium-sized industries or auto repair shops.

According to the manufacturer, the model differs qualitatively from similar devices in its ability to reduce the amount and intensity of welding spatter.

And thanks to the transfer impulse, even a beginner will be able to form smooth joints that will be similar to the work of professional equipment in a factory.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 180 A.
3. Power - 7.10 kW.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 8 kg.

pros

• less splashing;
• high-quality seam penetration;
• voltage stability during drop;
• simple controls.

Minuses

• not detected.

Semi-automatic argon welding of stainless steel

Semi-automatic argon welding greatly simplifies the process, increases its speed, and also improves the quality of the weld. Most often, semi-automatic machines are used to connect parts of large thickness.

There are several features of argon welding of stainless steel using a semi-automatic machine:

• use of nickel-containing wire;
• consumption of carbon dioxide together with argon when joining thick parts - the edges of the seam are wetted with gas, reducing heating, which leads to a softening of the entire process;
• the use of three connection methods: with a short arc, with jet transfer technology or a pulse method.

It is believed that the greatest control of the process occurs during pulse welding, when the wire is fed into the work area in jerks. At the same time, its consumption is reduced, which is important due to its high cost. The heating area of ​​the metal is reduced. Spattering is reduced.

This results in reduced post-finishing time for surfaces close to the weld because there is no molten metal splash.

TOP 5 best inexpensive argon arc welding machines (TIG)

Svarog REAL SMART ARC 200

Budget semi-automatic, which is used for operation both manually and in synergetic mode.

That is, the user can completely trust the automatic setup or manually calibrate the necessary parameters.

In both modes, the current increases to 200 A, thanks to which an efficiency of ninety percent is achieved.

The device stands out from the entire mass of competitors with its black matte body, rubber regulators, wide configuration and versatility of use, that is, the model is popular both among amateur beginners and professional welders.

There is an automatic hot start with the possibility of manual adjustment.

The same applies to arc force. Therefore, the device is in demand in small industries and car services, as it is possible to work with thin metal parts.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - (TIG, MMA).
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Power - 7.10 kVA.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 3.8 kg.

pros

• compactness and lightness of the model;
• good equipment;
• manual and automatic modes;
• convenient control.

Minuses

• Automatic hot start sometimes does not turn on the first time.

ELITECH AIS 200D

An inexpensive, compact and lightweight model of a welding machine that can be used at home, for construction or repair work, as well as for the professional activities of auto repairmen..

The device operates in manual and automatic mode, the parameters are displayed on a small but clear digital display. The case has stable legs, thanks to which the model can be placed on any surface.

The maximum power consumption of the model is estimated at 6.2 kW, and the efficiency is 85 percent.

Its welding current range can be adjusted, from 10 A to 200 A.

Therefore, it is possible to work even with thin materials and control the penetration depth.

The device kit includes two types of cables, with an electrode holder and with a ground clamp.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - (TIG, MMA).
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Input voltage - 110-275 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 3.5 kg.

pros

• compact and lightweight, suitable for working at heights;
• good power indicators;
• manual and automatic control.

Minuses

• short cable.

Quattro Elementi B 205

Larger model than previous representatives of budget welding machines.

The case is in dark colors, there is a comfortable handle for carrying the device and large legs for stability on any surface.

Suitable for domestic needs, construction or repair, capable of working with both alloy steel and non-ferrous metals.

The maximum welding current reaches 205 A.

The device is very convenient to work with, thanks to its simple controls it is quite suitable for a beginner.

It is possible to set the current strength with an accuracy of one ampere.

The parameters are displayed on a digital display, which can also reflect the error number in the system, so you can always determine the reason for the stop and continue working.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 205 A.
3. Input voltage - 170-260 V.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 5.3 kg.

pros

• convenient body with low weight;
• good power;
• simple control with precise adjustment.

Minuses

• At high power it heats up quickly.

Aurora STICKMATE 205

An excellent option for a welding machine for a visiting specialist . Reliable case,

which weighs less than 4.5 kg, with a rigid and wide handle for transportation.

One of the advantages of the model is the ability to use several types of electrodes - rutile, basic, and cellulose are suitable.

By adjusting the arc force, you can reduce the risk of electrode sticking. There is an automatic hot start. There is a digital display on the case, thanks to which you can track all the necessary parameters.

The current reaches 200 A in both modes, while less electricity is consumed than analogues from competitors.

Due to its functionality and affordable price, such a device is popular among professional users and beginners.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Input voltage - 195-264 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 4.3 kg.

pros

• set of functions;
• good equipment;
• power in both modes;
• There is an automatic hot start.

Minuses

• sometimes it overheats a lot.

Wester TIG 220

A good representative of the range of this brand with an affordable price and optimal functionality for home and garden.

This is a universal inverter, suitable for manual or argon-arc processing of ordinary and non-ferrous metals with a current of up to 220 V (and for two modes).

Current indicators are displayed on the built-in digital display, at the bottom of which there is a knob in order to set this parameter accurate to the ampere.

For work, the user can use electrodes with a diameter of up to 5 mm. Optimization of the internal filling of the device and a powerful cooling system make it possible to achieve an operating time of 70% at maximum current.

If a critical temperature has been reached, the power is turned off until the device cools down.

Among the features, we note the Arc Force function, which will protect against arc rupture, and the Hot Start option will increase the current strength to achieve faster ignition of the arc.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - (TIG, MMA).
2. Maximum welding current - 220 A.
3. Power - 9.50 kW.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 7.7 kg.

pros

• bright display;
• the ability to precisely adjust the current;
• protection of the housing and internal parts from overheating;
• easier arc ignition.

Minuses

• short cable.

TOP 5 best inverter welding machines (TIG)

FoxWeld InverMig 185

Another popular option from this brand for performing welding work in a small car service center or in your own garage.

Welding is carried out with direct current; for this, the company’s specialists use inverter technology to convert and control the welding current. Thanks to her, it was possible to obtain a tool that is not only functional, but also light in weight and size.

Often used for on-site and high-altitude work, since the dimensions allow the device to be placed in the trunk, and the body has a thick handle for carrying.

The input voltage is produced in the range of 187-253 V, and at idle it is about 60 V. Due to the fact that this model is semi-automatic, it is possible to achieve ideal welding parameters, even if the incoming voltage drops significantly.

Has an internal wire feeder whose speed can be adjusted.

Well suited for welding parts with small thickness.

The arc is ignited by touch, there is also an inductance adjustment, with which you can control the power of the device.

The kit includes a gas burner, which saves both money and time on selecting the right tool.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 180 A.
3. Input voltage - 187-242 V.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 20 kg.

pros

• parameters can be adjusted;
• digital display;
• good equipment;
• slight spattering of metal.

Minuses

• a little heavy.

RESANTA SAIPA-190MF

A welding machine from a popular brand with universal use . Useful for

work with aluminum sheets, cast iron, most grades of steel, as well as for cutting metal. Thanks to the presence of argon arc welding, it is possible to combine alloy steels, as well as non-ferrous metals of different types.

The manufacturer has taken care to provide a powerful cooling system; due to heat removal, the duty cycle is extended by up to 70 percent..

If the temperature of the power elements rises to the maximum, the thermal protection turns off the power to the device until they cool completely.

There is a special regulator on the front panel that controls the speed of wire unwinding.

Here the user can monitor the current and arc voltage. This helps control the depth of welding of parts. In the MMA current activation mode, the broaching of filler material can also be monitored.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 190 A.
3. Operating voltage - 17.60-27.60 V.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 11.26 kg.

pros

• there is both two-stroke and four-stroke welding;
• convenient control;
• good cooling.

Minuses

• The cable is short, and its insulation often cracks and breaks.

Aurora INTER TIG 200 AC/DC Pulse

A decent option for professional use that can handle both AC and DC current.

It is a representative of reliable technology, created by experienced specialists.

A powerful cooling system will not allow overheating or breakdown; the digital display shows not only parameters for setting, but also error codes, so that it is possible to troubleshoot and resume operation.

Thanks to a wide range of current strength, a specialist is able to control the weld penetration and make the overlap as smooth as possible. You can work with both alloy steel and non-ferrous metals.

The device is suitable for outdoor use; it is not afraid of frost down to minus twenty degrees and extreme heat, and a special function reduces the amount of splashes.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 200 A.
3. Input voltage - 187-253 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 20 kg.

pros

• wide functionality;
• good equipment;
• high power and precision.

Minuses

• not detected.

ELITECH AIS 220D

One of the best representatives of such devices, thanks to the successful combination of low price, good functionality, power and compactness.

The maximum welding current reaches 220 A. This allows you to fully process various types of metals and carry out even the most delicate manipulations.

This is an excellent device for home use, suitable for construction or repair work, and can be taken with you on trips or for performing high-altitude procedures..

The duty cycle at the highest current point is 80%, so you can use the device for a long time without interruption. This is facilitated by a powerful cooling system.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 220 A.
3. Input voltage - 110-275 V.
4. Efficiency - 90%.
5. Weight - 3.5 kg.

pros

• lightweight and compact;
• electrodes do not stick;
• minimum splashes.

Minuses

• not detected.

RESANTA SAI-250AD AC/DC

The model belongs to modern installations that can work with both direct current (to weld steel and various metals) and alternating current (to remove oxidation from non-ferrous metals).

The maximum current in both modes reaches 250 A. The device can be used not only indoors, but also outdoors, since it is not afraid of frosts down to minus ten and heat up to plus forty.

The manufacturer managed to achieve light weight and compact dimensions so that the user is not tied to one place and can transport the device as needed..

On the case there are parameter regulators, the indicators of which are displayed on a digital display. You can also see error codes there.

The model has good forced cooling, so the device can operate for a long time at high power.

Main characteristics:

1. Welding types - TIG, MMA.
2. Maximum welding current - 250 A.
3. Input voltage - 198-242 V.
4. Efficiency - 85%.
5. Weight - 15 kg.

pros

• convenient control with precise settings;
• an affordable tool for a professional;
• wide range of equipment.

Minuses

• not detected.

Setting up the machine and the details of argon welding of stainless steel pipes

Creating stainless steel pipelines requires connecting its parts. A feature of such welding work is the need to protect the seam with gas inside the pipe.

For this purpose, use the method of plugging one end of the connected pipe with improvised materials:

• paper;
• foam;
• rubber;
• cloth or etc.

The tube required to supply argon is inserted into the plug. After which the structure is secured with tape. Argon is supplied under low pressure, which is determined by visual inspection. The main criterion is the absence of molten metal in the air blown from the pipe.

A homemade but convenient design will help make the welding seam smooth and of high quality.

To connect stainless steel 3 mm thick, the device is set to a current of 65 A. Welding the weld crater should last 3 seconds. And the supply of argon after completion of work is 4 seconds.