Indispensable for DIY and repair work, the soldering station is a must-have for any DIYer worth his salt. All kinds of models exist on the market, capable of doing different types of welding. But, for arc welding, you will need a quality arc welder. We explain everything in this guide.
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Our selection
"The Stamos Germany S-MMA-250PI.2 has an amperage of 250 A. Its 8 m cable makes it the ideal arc welding machine for the workshop as…"
"If you're looking to combine quality welding with energy efficiency, the MMA-200 from Greencut is a must. This reliable arc welder features inverter technology for…"
"This combined welding machine (TIG, MIG/MAG, E-Hand, FCAW) was designed by Stamos, a world reference in arc welding machines. Despite its compact size, it is…"
"The StahlWerk MIG 135 ST IGBT is a powerful and energy-saving tool. Thanks to the simplicity of the arc welding unit, even those who know…"
"Take advantage of this microprocessor controlled arc welder to make welds like a pro. The Telwin Maxima 200 is portable and has the essential safety…"
The Stamos Germany S-MMA-250PI.2 has an amperage of 250 A. Its 8 m cable makes it the ideal arc welding machine for the workshop as well as for repair and maintenance work outdoors.
127 £ on AmazonThis power monster can handle up to 250 A at a duty cycle of 60%. This allows you to melt the hardest metals up to 10 mm thick. If necessary, you can lower the power to 200 A or less without stopping the machine. In fact, the welding current can go from 20 A to 250 A with an intuitive regulator. Just look at the LED display to monitor all parameters and have full control over the welding conditions.
Moreover, the cables provided are 4 times longer than conventional welding cables, which means 4 times more mobility. You can use this machine to weld steel, nickel, iron, cast iron and copper with thicknesses ranging from 1.5mm to 10mm. So, this arc welder will be perfect for DIY, staircase, rail, gate, door and other similar objects work.
If you're looking to combine quality welding with energy efficiency, the MMA-200 from Greencut is a must. This reliable arc welder features inverter technology for cleaner, continuous welding.
75,59 £ on AmazonThis arc welder is small but strong. Practical, light and simple, the Greencut MMA-200 has a fully adjustable fully adjustable from 25 to 200 A. This guarantees a precision weld even on the thinnest of sheets. Turbo ventilated, this welding machine can be used for 3 hours in a row. But beyond that, it can get hot, especially if you use it with larger electrodes.
The Greencut MMA-200 also uses iGBT technology to provide the user with better welding quality and energy efficiency. Finally, it features inverter technology for cleaner, continuous welding. In short, for all that this little bomb has to offer, you'd be wrong to be without it.
This combined welding machine (TIG, MIG/MAG, E-Hand, FCAW) was designed by Stamos, a world reference in arc welding machines. Despite its compact size, it is fast and powerful.
495 £ on AmazonThe Stamos S-Multi 195 arc welder combines 4 arc welding processes: TIG, MIG/MAG, E-HAND and FCAW. You can make fast and efficient welds with MIG/MAG. This machine also allows you to weld metals with a reduced weld area with the TIG process. You could also opt for MMA or FCAW for small jobs with flux-cored wire.
Thus, you have the choice of a suitable welding process for all types of weldable metals. This ranges from thin metal layers to solid steel beams. Welding can be done with or without gas, on a construction site as well as in a workshop. Note that the powerful IGBT inverters allow you to switch quickly between the different types of welding with a very low error rate. Finally, you can regulate the voltage and power continuously, activate the VRD function or switch between 2-stroke and 4-stroke functions.
The StahlWerk MIG 135 ST IGBT is a powerful and energy-saving tool. Thanks to the simplicity of the arc welding unit, even those who know nothing about welding can manage.
263 £ on AmazonThe StahlWerk MIG 135 ST IGBT is an excellent welding machine for arc welding. This 3-in-1 inert gas operated equipment offers many extras such as high performance cooling protection, overheat protection and hot start safety. You will benefit from a variable voltage from 16 to 26 V to manually adjust the wire ignition and burning.
The simplicity of this arc welder makes it an excellent model for beginners and those who are not used to tinkering. In addition, the StahlWerk MIG 135 ST IGBT has a low power consumption. And you can perform MIG, MAG and MMA welding with it. The manufacturer even offers a 7-year warranty!
Take advantage of this microprocessor controlled arc welder to make welds like a pro. The Telwin Maxima 200 is portable and has the essential safety features.
468 £ on AmazonThis arc welder can perform MIG/MAG, flux-cored wire, MMA and TIG welding. You can go all out on materials like steel, stainless steel or aluminum. This multi-process welder has a quick synergistic adjustment of the welding parameters. It is easy to use, even for an inexperienced welder.
No need to worry about safety. The Telwin Maxima 200 has thermostatic protection as well as over and under voltage protection. The station is delivered with the Toledo ground clamp, the Dallas 300 electrode holder, the MT15 MIG torch and a connection kit for refillable cylinder.
If you are on a tight budget and can make do with a spot welder for light duty work, the Mophorn Sunkko 737G is for you. It is battery operated and can weld very thin nickel-plated steel strips (0.03 to 0.2 mm).
127 £ on AmazonThe Mophorn Sunkko 737G's display allows you to monitor the current and pulse while you weld. If you have small welding projects on thin strips of nickel-plated steel, iron, nickel or nickel-plated iron, this spot welder will do the trick. However, it is not recommended for welding aluminum or copper.
In general, this arc welder is an excellent choice for getting used to spot welding. And it is considered as a model for small budgets. Due to its lack of power, the Mophorn Sunkko 737G doesn't always meet users' expectations. However, if you're looking for something for very light and occasional work, it should suffice.
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| TOP OF THE TOP | LOW COSTS | Combined | MMA Station | Portable and powerful | Occasional | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
8/10 |
8/10 |
8/10 |
9/10 |
9/10 |
7/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Stamos Germany S-MMA-250PI.2
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Greencut MMA-200
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Stamos S-MULTI 195
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StahlWerk MIG 135 ST IGBT
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Telwin Maxima 200
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Mophorn Sunkko 737G
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The Stamos Germany S-MMA-250PI.2 has an amperage of 250 A. Its 8 m cable makes it the ideal arc welding machine for the workshop as well as for repair and maintenance work outdoors.
|
If you're looking to combine quality welding with energy efficiency, the MMA-200 from Greencut is a must. This reliable arc welder features inverter technology for cleaner, continuous welding.
|
This combined welding machine (TIG, MIG/MAG, E-Hand, FCAW) was designed by Stamos, a world reference in arc welding machines. Despite its compact size, it is fast and powerful.
|
The StahlWerk MIG 135 ST IGBT is a powerful and energy-saving tool. Thanks to the simplicity of the arc welding unit, even those who know nothing about welding can manage.
|
Take advantage of this microprocessor controlled arc welder to make welds like a pro. The Telwin Maxima 200 is portable and has the essential safety features.
|
If you are on a tight budget and can make do with a spot welder for light duty work, the Mophorn Sunkko 737G is for you. It is battery operated and can weld very thin nickel-plated steel strips (0.03 to 0.2 mm).
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Amperage
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250 A
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25 to 200 A
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195 A
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135 A
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20 to 170 A
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2 to 15 amps
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Usable electrodes
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Up to 5 mm
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2 to 3.2 mm
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No data available
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Not reported
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Up to 3.2 mm
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Not reported
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Input voltages
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230 V
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230 V
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230 V
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230 V
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230 V
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220 volts
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Type
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Coated electrode welding
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Coated electrode welding
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TIG, MIG/MAG, E-Hand, FCAW, MMA
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Semi-automatic, MMA, MIG-MAG
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MIG-MAG TIG welding, coated electrode
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Spot welding
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Input power
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7.8 kVA
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-
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6.6 kVA
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-
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3.2 kW
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1500 watts
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Generally, arc welding machines are powered by electric current from the mains, except for models with an on-board generator. It can be either single-phase 220 V or three-phase 380 V. Depending on the current source available in your workplace, you will have to choose a welding machine with an adapted welding intensity. It should be noted that a single-phase welding machine delivers an intensity generally lower than 200 amperes, while with a three-phase machine you can obtain 400 to 600 amperes, which allows you to work longer with more power.
To know the output current delivered by the welding machine you must refer to the welding power (A), the no-load voltage (V) and the type of welding current, alternating (AC or AC) or direct (DC or DC). The power is determined by the size of the electrode and varies according to the arc welding process used. For example, for MMA welding, a 4.0 mm electrode requires about 200A of welding power for a single phase machine, while beyond 5.0 mm diameter, more than 200A is required and the use of a three phase machine becomes necessary. The no-load voltage keeps the arc stable and facilitates the ignition. A no-load voltage between 40 and 45 volts is correct for MMA welding with a rutile electrode. As for the welding current, the so-called direct current is more frequently delivered by modern welding machines. Expressed in amperes and in percentage over a period of 10 minutes and always at a temperature of 40 C, it is determined by the construction of the welding machine and by the presence of a cooling mechanism. The longer it is used, the hotter the soldering station becomes and the more power it loses. It is important to choose a station with the highest possible operating rate to be able to use it continuously for a long time.
For
greater safety of use, the welding station must be insulated at least in IP23 category to avoid electrification and electrocution. As for cooling, good ventilation can greatly increase the operating rate explained above. You can choose between soldering stations with a single fan and turbo-fanned stations, with an automatically regulated turbine designed to keep the station at an optimal temperature.
Arc welding machines are becoming more sophisticated and can incorporate various features for added safety and convenience. For example, there are models with start-up stabilization devices such as Easy Arc Starting, or giving the possibility to make safe long distance welds. You will have to take into account your budget and especially the type of work to be done before choosing a basic welding machine or one with more advanced features.
Welding is a process that requires some essential protective equipment. Among these equipments, you necessarily need a mask to protect yourself from the light generated by the electric arc. This can reach a temperature of 4000°C, but especially blue light as well as UV. Blue light can cause serious damage to the lens and retina of the eyes.
Ultraviolet light causes inflammation of the cornea and can lead to conjunctivitis. In the long run, this can lead to eye cancer. Therefore, to work safely without risking serious illness, it is best to take precautions during welding by using a good protective mask. LCD models are ideal for this purpose.
There are several types of arc welding machines. To learn more about these models, we present the two most common types on the market today: the MMA and the semi-automatic.
The MMA process is the most commonly used in DIY for welding metals. To assemble metal parts, the welder uses a welding paddle consisting of a metal electrode and a coating, hence its other name of coated electrode welding
. The electrode is the filler metal while the coating protects the molten metal from oxidation.
This process is used to weld metals from 1 to 10 mm thick like cast iron, stainless steel and steel. The Silex France - Inverter 200A, the Inverter IGBT Fixkit and the Gys GYSMI 160P belong to this first category of welding machine.
The MIG-MAG (Metal Inert Gas-Metal Active Gas) system is also popular in iron work. Unlike the MMA process, this one does not use coated metal, as the electric arc is created by a wire electrode. This fuse wire is supplied in a reel. It is automatically unwound to the torch.
This process is used for welding metals from 0.6 mm to 7 mm thick such as steel, aluminum and stainless steel. The Stamos S-MULTI 195 is a 4-in-1 welding unit, which allows for MIG/MAG welding. These machines are generally more expensive than the MMA models.
The inverter allows a faster and lighter arc welding. It is a low voltage (230-400 volts) to very low voltage electronic transformer that continuously regulates the most suitable power. Inverter technology has greatly improved arc welding and has gradually replaced the classic basic "shunt" transformer.
The MMA welding machine is designed to weld steel, stainless steel and cast iron. Generally speaking, it is used for metals from 1 to 10 mm thick. This type of machine can be used both indoors and outdoors and can be used for welding in all directions. After welding, the slag has to be cleaned, which takes some time.
Semi-automatic welding (MIG-MAG) is suitable for joining thin metals such as sheet metal. With a semi-automatic welding machine, there is no need to change the electrode and you can weld with one hand. This process makes it possible to work more quickly. On the other hand, the machines are more expensive and difficult to use outdoors or in the open air.
Choose your type of machine according to your habits and the metals you work with. If you work exclusively on thin metals less than 1 mm thick, a MIG/MAG will suit you perfectly. If you plan to weld elements thicker than 8 mm, you need an MMA machine. To be prepared for all eventualities, it is best to have a combination machine.
For the strength of the weld
Arc welding machines are the most widely used welding tools due to the excellent strength of their welds, among other reasons. Modern welding machines are equipped with advanced technologies that allow them to maintain a stable temperature for a good formation of the arc at the start.
For its versatility
A great advantage of arc welding machines is their suitability for all types of metals to be welded, from the most resistant to the easiest to handle. In addition, they can be used for large jobs such as ironwork, as well as for smaller welding tasks such as locksmithing or other domestic DIY jobs.
For its cost-effectiveness
Compared to the scope of the work that can be done with such a tool, the purchase of an arc welding unit is very profitable in the medium and long term. In addition, the prices of the machines and the consumables are quite affordable.
For the precision of the welding
With various on-board control and intensity regulation functions, arc welding machines offer maximum precision even on very thin metal plates. Working with these types of machines is cleaner and safer with less metal loss and less spatter.
To save energy
Arc welding machines are more sophisticated and use much less energy than conventional machines. Some are equipped with converters to reduce energy consumption while still providing the current needed for efficient work.
In our opinion, the best brands of welding machines for arc welding in 2022 are :
Silex is a brand born about ten years ago in the south of France. They have developed a range of gardening and DIY tools for professionals and amateurs alike. Its welding machines for arc welding are extremely popular.
Fixkit is the ideal companion for do-it-yourselfers. This brand has made it its mission to offer practical products that meet the needs of every customer. It offers models of arc welding machines at a very affordable price.
GYS is a French industrial group born in 1964 in Laval. They specialize in the design of arc welding equipment, automotive body repair and battery services. GYS welding machines are very well known, whether they are MMA, MIG/MAG or TIG models.
Stanley is a brand that originated in Connecticut in the late 19th century. It offers a range of tools for professionals including laser measurers, storage solutions and an assortment of power tools. Its arc welding machines are popular with both DIYers and hobbyists.
Stamos Welding Group is a German company specialized in high quality welding equipment. The production of its equipment is subject to strict quality control during the entire manufacturing process.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Prepare before welding
A layer of rust or scale can prevent a good weld. Also, clean the areas to be welded well with a grinding wheel. Be careful if you are dealing with thick metal or old steel.
Be careful about the length of the arc
The
arc should be more or less 4 mm between the bath and the electrode. Back off regularly if you are welding thin metal. Move back and forth to widen the weld area, if you are working on thick metal.
Check the adhesion of the bath
Routinely move back and forth between the parts you're welding. This is the winning technique for making strong vertical beads. Consistency of movement is essential to good aesthetics.
Dry the chopsticks
If
you are doing MMA welding, make sure your rods are dry. Keep them away from moisture. The weld will be of very poor quality if your rods are wet.
Clean up after welding
Once
the parts are assembled, clean your slag with a small, suitable hammer. If you have made a good weld, the slag should come off on its own. If inclusions remain in the material, finish with a grinder to smooth it out.
The best arc welder depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide for the best products available.
Silex, Stanley and GYS are the references in this field.
DIY and tool stores will provide you with what you are looking for. If you want to have a wider choice, look on the internet.
You will find very efficient ones starting at 150 euros.
To weld safely, you need a high performance LCD helmet, an apron and welding gloves.
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