Manual arc welding: what is, types of MMA welding machines, how to choose, the best models

For those who want to learn how to weld metal parts together, it is best to start with manual arc welding (RDS). This method has the international designation MMA. First, you need to figure out which device to buy (type of equipment) and with what characteristics. Tips on this topic, as well as a rating of the best household and semi-professional models, compiled taking into account the parameters and reviews, will help you make the right choice. Then your machine will cope with the upcoming tasks, and the welding training process will be faster.


Manual arc welding: what is, types of MMA welding machines, how to choose, the best models

The selection of goods was carried out on the basis of reviews, opinions and ratings of users posted on various resources on the Internet. All information is taken from public sources. We do not cooperate with manufacturers and trademarks and do not call for the purchase of certain products. The article is for informational purposes only.

What is MMA manual arc welding

Manual arc welding is called so, since the process of burning the electrode and leading the arc to form a seam are carried out completely in manual mode. The electric arc was discovered a long time ago, but was first used to connect metals in 1882. In 1907, the process was improved by coating for electrodes and received the international designation Manual Metal Arc (MMA).

The essence of the manual arc welding process is to connect the current source to the network. Two wires (+ and -) come from the device. One joins the product, and the second is equipped with an electrode holder. An electrode is inserted into it - a metal rod with a diameter of 1.6 to 6 mm, coated with a coating. Tapping on the surface leads to circuit closure and an electric arc.

The temperature of the arc is 5000 degrees, so due to thermal energy the edges of the metal being joined and the rod of the electrode itself melt. Molten metal is called a weld pool. To protect it from the effects of ambient air, a gas cloud is needed. This role is played by the coating of the electrode, which melts and creates a protective environment. Due to this, the metal hardens without pores. After crystallization, a slag crust forms on the surface of the seam, removed by lightly tapping the hammer.

manual arc welding process diagram

If you swap the wires (minus connect to the product, and plus to the holder), you get the opposite polarity. In this case, the current will move from the product to the electrode, which reduces heat input and is in demand when welding thin products. With direct polarity (plus to the mass, and minus to the holder), the voltage moves from the electrode to the workpiece, which accelerates the melting of the edges and increases the welding speed.

To control the process visually, the welder must be in a protective mask with a light filter. It prevents damage to the retina by UV and infrared rays, protects against bright light and prevents the release of scale on the face.Mandatory personal protective equipment is gaiters, heavy clothing and boots. There should be a hat without a visor.

Detailed video tutorial on manual arc welding

Advantages and disadvantages of manual arc welding

MMA metal welding technology has several advantages and disadvantages that should be considered when choosing a method for specific tasks.

 

+ Pros of manual arc welding

  1. The relatively low cost of equipment for RDS
  2. Possibility of welding metals in any spatial position
  3. Welds ordinary and high carbon steel, stainless metals
  4. High current cutting possible
  5. You can work in almost any temperature conditions
  6. A short electrode is convenient to crawl in an uncomfortable place

 

- Cons of manual arc welding

  1. RDS significantly loses in welding speed for semi-automatic welding
  2. Inhalation of smoke is hazardous to health.
  3. It is difficult for a novice welder to distinguish metal from slag in a weld pool
  4. The quality of the seam depends on the skill of the user.
  5. It is difficult to burn an electrode on rusty metal
  6. The gap between the end of the electrode and the product is constantly changing (as the rod burns)

Types of welding machines for manual arc welding

It is important for a novice welder to know the types of welding machines for manual welding, selected depending on the thickness of the metal being welded, the type of steel and the frequency of use of the equipment. The price of the models is also different, so it’s worthwhile to delve into this issue in more detail in order to buy a device suitable for future activities. Equipment can be divided into three categories:

Inverters

One of the most compact devices with a connection to 220 or 380 V. It uses small transformers, a diode bridge and an electronic board with keys. The unit receives from the network an alternating current with a frequency of 50 Hz and converts it to direct, passing through a special filter. Then the voltage again becomes variable, but with an already increased frequency - 100 kHz. After that, the amplitude of the volt decreases to 48-90, and the current increases to 160-200 A.

cutaway welding inverter
Welding inverter with cover removed.

At the output, the current is again converted to direct current. There are universal inverters where, in addition to MMA welding, it is possible to install a coil with wire and connect a torch from a semiautomatic device for MIG / MAG welding. “3 in 1” models are also capable of cooking with a non-consumable tungsten electrode in argon medium (TIG). Of course, the cost of universal inverters is higher than usual, but their functionality is wider.

universal welding inverter with working parts
Universal welding inverter.

Rectifiers

These are installations for manual welding in industrial conditions. They convert alternating current to direct without changing the oscillation frequency. Most often, 380 V is required for connection. They are distinguished by smooth seams created with a characteristic rustle. They are used for manual welding of critical products, but they are expensive and not convenient in transportation, so they are more suitable for stationary use.

Welding rectifier
Welding rectifier.

Transformers

Welding transformers are MMA welding machines at the most affordable price due to the simplicity of design. It is a coil with primary and secondary windings. Due to this, the voltage decreases, and the current increases. Changing the distance between the coils allows you to adjust the welding current. The work is carried out on alternating voltage. There are models for 220 and 380 V. There are compact devices for carrying on the shoulder and large industrial installations. Due to AC welding, they are suitable for non-critical structures.

Welding transformer
Welding transformer.

How to choose a welding machine for manual arc welding

It is necessary to choose welding equipment for manual arc welding based on the upcoming tasks for joining metals, including the maximum thickness of the workpieces, place of work, volume and type of steel. Here are the key features of the equipment and recommended values ​​for various activities.

Working voltage

An important parameter on which depends on where it will turn out to cook with the apparatus:

  • Household models for 220 V, which can be connected to ordinary outlets. Only suitable for welding steel, section up to 10 mm.
  • Universal models designed for 220 and 380 V. They are suitable for both garage and production. They can weld metal up to 20 mm in thickness.
  • Industrial installations with power supply 380-580 V. Designed to connect workpieces with a thickness of 10-50 mm.

Where the voltage is often "sagged" (a weak power line in a garage cooperative, a remote village, in the country), it is advisable to choose a welding machine with an input current of 160 V. This will allow manual welding without installing a voltage regulator in the circuit.

Welding Current Adjustment Range

The thickness of penetration depends on the current strength. The adjustment range of some devices is 160-200 A, others 200-250 A. Industrial devices can have a maximum value of 400-500 A. If you buy an inverter with insufficient current margin, the metal from the electrode will not be able to melt inward, but will stick on the surface. Such a seam will be weak and not tight.

  • For welding steel with a cross section of 1-2 mm, amperage is sufficient 60-100 A.
  • To cook workpieces with a thickness of 3-5 mm, choose an inverter with an indicator 160-200 A.
  • If welding of thick parts of 6-20 mm is a priority, then a professional machine with amperage is required 250-400 A.
Metal thickness mmDiameter of welding electrode, mmRecommended values ​​of welding current, A
    1-2          1,0      20-60
3-4 1,6  50-90 
4-5 2,0     60-100    
5-6 2,5    80-120 
6-8 3,2    110-150 
8-11 4,0 140-180
12-15 5,0 180-220
15-18 6,0  220-260

Duration of inclusion

This characteristic is indicated by the abbreviation PV and is measured in percent. A PV of 40% means that out of 10 minutes, the apparatus will be able to cook at maximum current continuously for 4 minutes, and the rest of the time will be required to cool. If you need to use the machine for a short time (welding with short seams, where interruption for subsequent marking and cutting of workpieces often occurs), then you can save and buy a machine with a small PV index, since it will have time to cool down during downtime.

In cases of prolonged welding, you need to buy an inverter with a PV of 80 or 100%, which will be able to cook practically without stopping. The second option is to purchase a device with a high maximum current strength (for example, 250 A). And although its PV at a maximum will be 40%, but at a value of 160 A, the PV will be 100%. And this is enough for continuous welding of sheet steel with a section of 3 mm.

Open circuit voltage

Since the welder often holds onto the workpiece or even stands on it in the process of conducting the seam, it is necessary to ensure safety from electric shock. To do this, the voltage during arc closure is reduced to a value of 12-48 V. This avoids electric shock. But while the arc is not burning (the circuit is open), the idling is held at higher rates.

This is necessary to more easily close the contact and excite the electric arc. The higher the idle, the easier it is to ignite the electrode. This is especially felt when welding rusty iron or poorly peeled paint. It is better for a novice to look for devices with an indicator of 70-90 V. More experienced welders need 60-70 V.

Power consumption

The value varies in different models from 4 to 20 kVA. This determines how thick the cross-section of the wiring in the mains should be. If the power of the device is overstated for a household outlet, the wiring will melt. Therefore, for giving, transformers with 5-7 kVA are needed. If welding is planned in the field from a gas generator, it is better to find a 4 kVA apparatus. There are no restrictions for industrial versions, since in factories, the connection of powerful equipment is incorporated in the calculations when designing electrical networks.

Protection against dust and moisture

In the characteristics of the welding machine, the housing is protected from ingress of solid particles and water (IP). The first value is always “2”. This implies that solid parts with a diameter of 12 mm and above are not penetrated into the housing. This means that the jacket will not be sucked by the fan blade, and your fingers will not get to live parts.

The second value can vary from “1” to “3”. In the first case, the device is protected from vertical drops, and in the second from rain, even if the spray falls at an angle of 60 degrees.If you work under the roof, it does not matter, but for outdoor activities IP23 protection will help to finish the work on the street, despite the beginning of rain.

Ventilation system

In all RDS devices, ventilation is provided that removes heat from the transformer and the board to the outside. Often, the system is implemented as a fan and perforation on the body. When overheating, the protection is triggered, and the inverter shuts down until it cools down. The presence of ventilation holes leads to the fact that the dust is pulled into the housing and purging is periodically required.

svarochnyj apparat MMA s vozdushnym ohlazhdeniem

In industrial models, there may be water cooling. In it, a mixture of alcohol and distilled water is circulated through the channels using a water pump. The liquid removes heat from key electrical parts, extending the operating time of the device. But such goods are more expensive, so the purchase is justified only by the need to continuously cook for 5-7 hours every day.

Temperature range for operation

If you have to work by manual welding in a heated room, then this characteristic is not important. But for those who work in cold buildings or on the street, you should pay attention to the temperature range. Often inverters are allowed to use up to -10 degrees. There are special models that work properly at -20 degrees.

At plus maximum temperature (which is +40 degrees for most models), the inverter will work faster thermal protection. Therefore, it is better to put the device in the shade on a ventilated area, then it will heat up longer.

Weight and dimensions

The size and weight of the welding machine affects the mobility of the welder and ease of transportation. For stationary use in a garage or workshop, dimensions and weight are not important. Unless it is required to provide a place for the apparatus 500x500x600 mm. But for off-site activities, it is worth buying a transformer with a weight of 3-6 kg. It can be worn on the shoulder and cooked at a height that does not require long mass cables and a holder, but only an extension cord for the power cord. Dimensions of compact inverters come in from 200x120x170 mm.

Additional features

The more additional functions the welding machine has, the easier it is to conduct manual welding and to impose a high-quality seam. A beginner should pay special attention to this. Here is a description of some of the additional features of welding equipment:

  • V.R.D. - reduces idling to a value of 9-12 V. This is necessary when welding work is carried out inside or on a metal structure in order to further increase safety. The function is especially useful if welding is performed in a humid environment that increases current conductivity.
  • Antistick - switching off the welding current when the electrode sticks. Facilitates the moment of detachment of the sticky core from the product, saves time and simplifies the learning process.
  • Hot start - gives increased current (voltage V) exactly at the time of ignition of the electrode. Well suited for manual welding of rusty or painted metal. It helps to start the seam in the precisely designated place, without leaving electric traces from tapping with the electrode on the workpiece.
  • Arc force - at the moment of sticking of the electrode, gives a short-term increase in current strength (by 10 A) to prevent arc attenuation. Useful for manual welding of sheet steel.

Video. How to choose a welding inverter for manual arc welding

The best welding machines for manual arc welding MMA

Having considered the key characteristics, it will be easier for you to choose the device for upcoming tasks. Next, we present the rating of the best models that received the most positive customer reviews. Perhaps among them you will find one that suits the parameters for your needs.

The best MMA welding machines for 140-200 A

Transformers and inverters for 140-200 A are household models that are used in the country, in the courtyard of a private house, in the garage. They are suitable for a small private workshop. They are called household because of the connection to the 220 V network and the ability to weld only thin iron up to 4-5 mm in cross section. Here is a ranking of the best models in this category.

RESANTA SAI-140

Welding machine from a domestic manufacturer. The range of current is 10-140 A.There is a rotary knob with a painted scale. Two indicators on the case indicate a network connection and overheating. The casing of the inverter is completely made of steel, which protects the internal parts from shock. Idling 75 V facilitates ignition of the electrode. At a maximum current of PV, 70% is permissible. The housing has a degree of protection IP21. The wide shoulder strap simplifies transport and work at heights. This is entirely possible since the inverter weighs 4.3 kg.

 RESANTA SAI 140

 

+ Pros RESAI SAI-140 advantages

  1. All-metal body.
  2. Convenient shoulder strap.
  3. There are two additional functions ("Anti-stick" and "Hot start").
  4. Easy ignition of an electrode.
  5. Weighs 4.3 kg.
  6. You can cook from a gas generator with a capacity of 3 kW.

 

- Cons RESAUT SAI-140

  1. No display.
  2. You can cook a maxim with an electrode of 3 mm in diameter.
  3. Flimsy mass clamp and holder.
  4. Short cables in a set.

Conclusion. This is one of the cheapest inverters for manual MMA welding. Its cost is explained by simple equipment and a maximum welding current of 140 amperes. The unit is notable for the possibility of welding at a low voltage of 140 V. If your power line is weak, then this is the best option.

 

PATRIOT Max Welder DC-200

The second place is given to the American brand, manufactured in China. The inverter has a current strength of 10-200 A and an open circuit voltage of 75 V. A wheel and a drawn scale are provided for setting the welding current. The front panel is equipped with two indicators that indicate the presence of a connection and overheating. The device is carried over a wide belt, which is not difficult to do with a weight of 4.5 kg. The holder from the kit is equipped with multi-position copper plates for clamping the electrode at different angles.

 PATRIOT Max Welder DC 200

 

+ Pros of PATRIOT Max Welder DC-200

  1. The weight of the unit is 4.5 kg.
  2. Welding wire with a cross section of 25 mm².
  3. Compact dimensions 300x120x190 mm.
  4. Easy ignition of an electrode.
  5. Three additional functions at once.
  6. It is very quiet.

 

- Cons PATRIOT Max Welder DC-200

  1. Sold without a case.
  2. 1.8 m short wires.
  3. No screen for visual control of settings.
  4. The front and rear walls of the housing are made of plastic.
  5. Flimsy holder.
  6. The "crocodile" of the mass has a small contact area and is heated.

Conclusion. This is one of the best home-class devices in a combination of price and performance. It is suitable for manual welding with electrodes up to 5 mm in diameter. Not every model is capable of this. The increased power allows the use of an inverter for welding hinges of gates, frames under the greenhouse, arbors. They will also be able to cut a corner with electric welding, which does not require the presence of additional tools (grinders, hacksaws).

 

Gigant MMA MINI GOS-180

This unit has bayonet connectors that allow you to quickly connect cables or reverse polarity. The welding current has a range of 20-180 A. The power of the unit does not exceed 4.7 kW, which allows operation from a household outlet. Idle here is 65 V. At the maximum current of the PV, 60% is obtained. The 25 mm² network cable does not heat up for a long time. The device confidently cooks with electrodes 1.6-3.2 mm in diameter.

 Gigant MMA MINI GOS 180

 

+ Pros Gigant MMA MINI GOS-180

  1. The iron case.
  2. Mask and brush for cleaning included.
  3. Infinitely adjustable current.
  4. Easy ignition of an electrode.
  5. The casing is powder coated to protect the metal from corrosion.
  6. Compact dimensions 310x185x220 mm.
  7. There is protection against overheating.

 

- Cons Gigant MMA MINI GOS-180

  1. Short cables 1.3 and 1.5 m.
  2. There is no "Arc Forsage" function.
  3. Missing display.
  4. The open circuit voltage is less than others - 65 V.
  5. You can not lower the amperage below 20.

Conclusion. Despite the fact that this model is slightly larger than the above, it weighs less - 3 kg. This is an excellent choice for those who often have to cook at height (farms, gazebos, attics). From this weight less tired shoulder. The front panel of the inverter is also recessed inward, so the adjustment wheel does not cling to clothes - the settings will not spontaneously spontaneously.

 

RESANTA SAI-160PN

This model from Resanta is already equipped with a rigid handle for transportation and metal belt loops. The range of current is from 10 to 160 A.In addition to amperes, the welder can adjust volts, affecting the degree of meltability of the filler metal. The inverter is connected to a single-phase network. PV at the maximum will be 70%. The device is characterized by an especially easy arc excitation due to 80 V at idle. Degree of protection IP21, air cooling is provided. The inverter weighs 5.7 kg.

 RESANTA SAI 160PN

 

+ Pros RESAANT SAI-160PN

  1. Brews at "drawdown" of a network to 140
  2. High open circuit voltage - 80
  3. Duration of inclusion up to 70%.
  4. Temperature range -10 ... + 40 degrees.
  5. It is equipped with all useful functions ("Fast and the Furious", "Anti-stick", "Hot start".).
  6. It’s easy to figure out the settings even for a woman.
  7. There is a pen and shoulder strap.

 

- Cons RESAUT SAI-160PN

  1. Front and back panels made of plastic.
  2. Flimsy electrode holder.
  3. Includes wires with aluminum core.
  4. Short cable.
  5. The screws in the holder and the case are not tightened properly - it must be extended after purchase.

Conclusion. This is the cheapest model with a bright display. The screen allows you to visually control the current and volts. Protective clear glass prevents the panel from being damaged by scale and accidentally changing settings. The inverter confidently cooks from 140 V, so in the country it is indispensable.

 

Svarog ARC 200 REAL Z238N

This model is from a Russian brand assembled in China. The welding machine for RDS is available in an orange metal case with rubber pads. The power is 4.9 kW, and the welding current is set within 20-200 A. The minimum input voltage is acceptable 160 V. Idling has an indicator of 60 V, and the duration of inclusion is allowed up to 60%. “Arc Fast and the Furious” is not here, but users in the review praise the goods for the clear operation of “Anti-sticking”. The unit weighs 4.6 kg. According to the passport, welding with electrodes with a diameter of 1.5-4.0 mm is allowed.

Svarog ARC 200 REAL Z238N 

 

+ Pros Svarog ARC 200 REAL Z238N:

  1. 3 m long cable included.
    Compact dimensions 312x136x262 mm.
    Some even cook with electrodes with a diameter of 5 mm.
    Protection against overheating and sticking.
    High-quality assembly.
    Rubberized knob - you can easily change the readings even with sweating hands.

 

- Cons Svarog ARC 200 REAL Z238N:

  1. There is no hot start.
    Sold without belt for transportation.
    Weak plug 16 A and corresponding wires 16 mm².
    For such money there is no screen.
    Flimsy crocodile.

Conclusion. This MMA device is notable for the rubberized corners of the case. They are located both on the upper and lower parts in front and behind. This will not allow to break the casing on the pipes or the corners of the walls when working in tight conditions. Still this design is less traumatic for the welder when wearing on his shoulder.

 

CEDAR MMA-200 GDM

Another model from a domestic manufacturer. It is connected to a single-phase 220 V network and provides a current strength of up to 200 A. Confidently cooks with electrodes 3 and 4 mm in diameter. The source weighs 6.1 kg. The dimensions of the device 315x145x250 mm simplify transportation and storage. Power 6.5 kW allows operation from a generator or household outlet. The current can only be reduced to a value of 40 A, so sheet metal with a thickness of 0.8 mm cannot be cooked.

 KEDR MMA 200 GDM

 

+ Pros of CEDAR MMA-200 GDM

  1. There is a long, stiff carry handle.
  2. Large and bright display.
  3. Wire cross section for connecting 50 mm².
  4. “Fast and the Furious” and “Hot Start” simplify the work.
  5. High performance cooling fan.
  6. In TIG mode, there is a Pulse function for pulse welding of thin metals with minimal heat input.
  7. High maintainability.

 

- Cons CEDAR MMA-200 GDM

  1. Front panel made of plastic.
  2. Overpriced for a domestic brand.
  3. No “anti-sticking”.
  4. The open circuit voltage of 58 V is lower than that of competitors.
  5. Short wires 1.6 m each.
  6. Amperes cannot be reduced below 40.

Conclusion. This household model is notable for the presence of TIG welding. A TIG torch can be connected to the connector and cooked with tungsten electrodes. At the back there is a pipe for fixing the gas hose from the cylinder. Such a universal inverter is useful if you have to alternate manual welding with electrodes on thick "black" metal with stainless steel.

 

Svarog ARC 205B (Z203)

High-quality and powerful inverter for complex tasks.It has a power of 8.3 kW, so the connection must be through a socket with wires of 50 mm². The welding current is adjustable in the range of 10-200 A, where at the maximum PV it will be 80%. Idling 63 V gives easy ignition of the arc. It is convenient to control the set values ​​on the display. The dimensions of the RDS apparatus are 410x160x260 mm.

 Svarog ARC 205B Z203

 

+ Pros Svarog ARC 205B (Z203)

  1. Two modes - TIG and
  2. The ability to adjust the I-V characteristic.
  3. Recessed in-depth control panel.
  4. There is a bright display.
  5. It is convenient to work with long wires of 3 m without moving the device.
  6. Three additional features.

 

- Cons Svarog ARC 205B (Z203)

  1. Inconvenient flexible carry handle.
  2. The case is partially made of plastic.
  3. Model weighs 8 kg.
  4. Not protected from rain.

Conclusion. The MMA welding inverter is notable for high-quality assembly, the presence of the TIG mode and long cables of mass and holder. This is a good machine for the demanding master. Another model stands out with a guarantee from the manufacturer for 5 years.

 

FoxWeld Wizard 202

The inverter with a welding current range of 20-200 A completes this rating category. It has a digital display, an indication of overheating, a start button on the front side. The powerful fan does not allow a stop in works in the heat. The welder offers all the necessary functions to prevent sticking and burn through. Idle here is 62 V. The efficiency of the unit is 80%. Insulation class - F. Permissible input voltage - 180-240 V.

 FoxWeld Master 202

 

+ Pros of FoxWeld Master 202

  1. The power switch is located on the front - convenient for frequent but short-term use.
  2. Rigid handle for transportation.
  3. Brews when the network drops to 180
  4. At 120 A, PV is 100%.
  5. Compact dimensions 300x130x270 mm.
  6. Really working additional features.

 

- Cons FoxWeld Master 202

  1. The inverter weighs 9 kg.
  2. There is no way to attach the shoulder strap.
  3. The power cord hardens in the cold and bursts.
  4. Short cable.
  5. The screws on the holder and the mass clamp are loosened.

Conclusion. We marked the MMA in the rating as the best for working with a long carry. If you often have to move around a large structure, this inverter cooks well even with an extension of 25 m. Welders note a soft arc in the reviews. They also rarely break and are hardy.

 
What MMA welding machine for 140-200 A Do you plan to buy?

The best semi-professional MMA welding machines for 220-250 A

Inverters and transformers for 220-250 A are “borderline”. These are the most productive models for domestic needs and "younger" for professional activities. Some of them run from 220 V, others are universal in power or require a connection to 380 V. Such MMA devices are worth buying for work in a garage, own workshop or small production.

Resanta SAI 220

Domestic brand at an affordable price. Has a current strength of 220 A with 100% PV at maximum. At the same time, it works from a household outlet and consumes 6.6 kW of power, so connecting in the house will not create problems. The manufacturer equipped it with afterburner and protective functions. The open circuit voltage is 80 V, so the arc is excited quickly. The model weighs only 4.9 kg, which is not bad for this class.

 Resanta SAI 220

 

+ Pros Resant SAI 220 Pros

  1. All-metal body.
  2. It cooks despite an input voltage of 140 V.
  3. When extending cables to 10 m, there is no loss of power.
  4. Long resource and unpretentiousness in operation.
  5. "Three" can even be cut.
  6. Instant arc ignition.

 

- Cons Resanta SAI 220

  1. There is no display with indication of ampere characteristics.
  2. There is no hard carry handle.
  3. Short wires of 150 cm.
  4. No TIG mode.
  5. Inside the power cord is aluminum, not copper.
  6. Backlash in the electrode holder.

Conclusion. This is a good MMA welding machine for starting a business when there is no way to invest a lot of money in equipment. A current reserve of 220 A is enough for manual welding and cutting. Inverter repair is inexpensive.A case is supplied with the kit, which simplifies storage and frequent transportation.

 

Fubag IR 220

Second place in this rating category is assigned to the device for RDS from the German brand Fubag. Goods are manufactured in China, which allowed to reduce the final cost. The inverter housing is made entirely of iron. There is a wide shoulder strap. When overheating, protection is triggered. The Arc Force, Anti Stick and Hot Start features enhance the quality of manual welding. On the digital display it is convenient to control the input data. The current strength at PV40% reaches 220 A. Idling - 74 V. Can be cooked with a “squeezed” network from 150 V.

 Fubag IR 220

 

+ Pros of Fubag IR 220

  1. The holder securely fixes the electrode.
  2. Stable arc burning.
  3. There is a small display.
  4. Easy to transport weight 4.5 kg.
  5. Work with unstable indicators of incoming voltage.
  6. Steel case and shoulder strap.

 

- Cons Fubag IR 220

  1. The cooling fan is working loudly.
  2. Short cables 1.8 and 1.2 m.
  3. You can not put on the ground - it draws in the ground, sand and dry grass.
  4. PV 40% will require frequent interruptions when welding thick iron.

Conclusion. The MMA inverter stands out for its compactness. This is one of the smallest devices among semi-professional models. Its dimensions are 260x120x185 mm. Small sizes take up little space in the trunk of a car and at home in the pantry. This is the best option for field work.

 

RESANTA SAI-250

An inverter for manual arc welding with a welding current range of 10-250 A. It can operate on a voltage of 140-260 V. It is connected to a single-phase network. Idling of 80 V immediately ignites the electrode when you first touch the mass. The manufacturer equipped it with a full range of functions that facilitate manual welding. Model weighs 5.3 kg. Provides direct current, providing smooth and tight seams. If you cook at maximum amps, then the duration of the inclusion will be 70%.

 resanta 250

 

+ Pros RESAI SAI-250 advantages

  1. Steel rugged case.
  2. There is a strap for carrying on the shoulder.
  3. You can even cook with electrodes with a diameter of 6 mm.
  4. Idling 80 V provides fast ignition of the arc.
  5. Operation at a temperature of -10 degrees.
  6. PV 70%.
  7. Not “afraid” of dampness.

 

- Cons RESAUT SAI-250

  1. Missing display.
  2. Only MMA welding, there are no other modes.
  3. Cable terminals break loose quickly.
  4. The amp control is too easy to rotate and stray even from vibration.
  5. Short cables.
  6. Buyers in reviews are missing a pen on top.

Conclusion. This is the best device in terms of power and price. Despite connecting to 220 V, it gives an honest 250 A, which is the maximum for a household appliance. It costs at the same time a little cheaper than competitors. If you need to weld metal with a section of up to 10 mm, then this is the best budget option.

 

RESANTA SAI-250PN

The professional model from Resant continues the rating with a current strength of 250 A. The MMA is powered by a single-phase network and consumes 7.7 kW. The front panel is equipped with a digital display and two controls. The controls are closed with a plexiglass shield, which prevents the settings from being knocked down or screen damage. The device can be carried by a belt or a rigid handle. PV here is 70%, and idle is 80 V. But the degree of protection IP21 allows the inverter to work only indoors during rain.

 resanta sai 250 pn

 

+ Pros RESAI SAI-250PN advantages

  1. Protected front panel from knocking down settings.
  2. Digital screen for displaying amperes.
  3. There is a regulator of fusion of filler metal (leg weld).
  4. Cooks with electrodes with a diameter of 6 mm.
  5. Rigid handle and shoulder strap.
  6. Characteristics of the input voltage - 140-260 V.
  7. Seldom goes into defense due to overheating.

 

- Cons RESAUT SAI-250PN

  1. Aluminum wires included.
  2. Cables spontaneously unscrew from the unit.
  3. The indicators on the front panel do not hold well (for some, they fall inward).
  4. The "crocodile" of the mass is poorly fixed to the product and heated (spring with a thin section).
  5. Dangling electrode in the holder.

Conclusion. This model differs from the above prefix “PN” in the index. The abbreviation indicates the guaranteed ability of the apparatus to cook under reduced voltage. This is the best option for working in the field from the generator or away, where the network parameters are unknown.According to customer reviews, they even manage to cook stainless steel, if you install the corresponding coated electrodes.

 

ELITECH IS 200H

A small semi-professional apparatus for manual arc welding with an amperage of 200 A. It consumes 7 kW of power. Allowed to work with electrodes from 1.6 to 5 mm in diameter. There are “Anti-sticking” and “Hot start”. The regulator is equipped with a relief, facilitating the capture of the wheel with your hands in thick leggings. Two indicators indicate network availability and temperature. Arc excitation occurs at a current of 68 V. PV at a maximum will be 60%.

 ELITECH IS 200H

 

+ Pros of ELITECH IS 200H

  1. Attractive price.
  2. Simple and convenient settings.
  3. Slight spatter of metal.
  4. Quiet operation of the cooling system.
  5. Easy to cook with electrodes with a diameter of 3 and 4 mm.
  6. Soft arc.

 

- Cons ELITECH IS 200N

  1. The controls protrude above the vertical plane and cling to clothing.
  2. There is no electronic display.
  3. Plastic ends of the case.
  4. The fan speed does not adjust as the load increases.
  5. Weak belt attachment - may pry.

Conclusion. This is the best professional inverter for manual arc welding for compactness. The dimensions of the case are 220x105x155 mm. The device weighs 2.8 kg, so if you often have to carry welding on your shoulder, this inverter is for you. There is also a TIG mode for argon arc welding. With it, brewing aluminum or stainless steel is even easier.

 

Denzel MMA-200ID

The inverter from the Denzel brand completes the rating category for semi-professional manual arc welding machines. It cooks faultlessly when the voltage drops to 150 V. The front panel is equipped with a regulator for smoothly changing the current strength. Its value is set from 20 to 200 A. The manufacturer equipped the unit with the “Hot start” function. This is good, since the idle speed here is inferior to the competitors' models and is 56 V. The inverter weighs 6.5 kg.

 Denzel MMA 200ID

 

+ Pros of Denzel MMA-200ID

  1. Numerous perforations for accelerated cooling.
  2. The kit includes a brush for stripping, welding mask and cable.
  3. Display and transparent shield on hinges.
  4. The toggle switch is located in front.
  5. Smooth seams with small scales.
  6. When registering on the manufacturer's website, the warranty is 3 years.

 

- Cons Denzel MMA-200ID

  1. Some parts of the body are made of plastic.
  2. No stiff grip.
  3. Large dimensions 450x210x290 mm.
  4. There is no mode.
  5. 2 m cable

Conclusion. Although PV at maximum amperes is 60%, in practice, judging by the reviews, the device heats up much longer and does not go into emergency mode. Thus, if you often have to work with a current of 200 A, but there is no money for a model with more powerful characteristics, then this is the best option.

 
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