TIG Welder Buying Guide
Whether you are beginner or professional in the field, you need something that will serve your purpose excellently. In most cases, buyers consider the factor that only they can understand. There are also few customers who just compare the prices without any consideration of the power output and its ability to handle the purpose. In addition to this, the customers who are impressed by appearance, the color or design of the welder may play a critical role in purchase decision.
The above factors won’t help you to decide the right welder. As you buy your TIG welder you should understand the factors that will aid you to make right decision. The following factors should help you to choose the right welder.
Input power
The input power determines what kind of tasks that your machine can perform. You need a high input power welder for heavy duties. Most welders have an automatic AC and DC adjustability. You should consider the type of material you will operate on while choosing the input power. Steel and aluminum are the most common type of material in welding process. They come in different gauges and thickness. For thick and dense metals you should consider high input devices, for hard material like stainless steel direct currents are suitable and for the low density metals like magnesium low input power are the best option. If your material is less dense then an alternative current will work for you.
Duty cycle
The duty cycle is the ability of welder to operate continuously. You should consider machines with a high DC for commercial use or high dense operations. You don’t have to wait hours for the welder to cool down. If you are looking for a welder for light task like home use then you can prefer low duty cycle TIG welders. The power input increases the rate of heating overworking the cooling system.
Weight and size
Weight and size determines the portability of device. Most buyers prefer lightweight machines for easy lift and portability. If your welder that operates from a fixed position then you can consider heavyweight tungsten welder. On the other hand, if you are a DIY worker then the best option for you is to buy a machine that can easily be lift from one place to another. The size of the transformer determines the weight and size of your device.
Digital display and automation
Through feature like automatic high-temperature shutdown and balance, automation and digitization make your work much easier. For the maintenance of your welder these elements are essential. In terms of voltage, power output, and preferred material digital display helps you to follow manufacturer’s regulation.