(5468 products available)
There are several AC DC TIG welders that business owners should consider investing in. Each type is unique depending on project needs.
Inverter TIG welders use advanced technology to offer AC and DC welding. These devices are portable and power efficient because they use an inverter to convert voltage. Inverter welders are ideal for businesses that require versatility and operation in different environments.
AC DC TIG welders can switch between alternating current and direct current. AC is useful for cleaning aluminum oxide off aluminum surfaces during welding. DC is ideal for welding ferrous metals with deep penetration. They are optimal for businesses that deal with a large variety of metal fabrication.
Pulsed TIG welders are similar to inverter welders since they also provide advanced AC DC TIG welding. They work by sending pulses of heat into the material being welded. This gives the welder more control over the heat input. It is especially useful when welding thin materials. These welders make a valuable addition for operations that need precision welding.
Small and compact portable TIG welders use inverter technology. They are ideal for TIG welding on the go and in tight working spaces. Their portability makes them ideal for repair work or for projects in remote locations. It is a space-saving option for clients with small workshops.
AC DC TIG welders are popular across various industries due to their adaptability and precision. There is a growing demand in the market, which presents business owners with great investment opportunities.
Many businesses in the automotive industry use AC DC TIG welders for repairing and fabricating components. For instance, they are used for welding aluminum car bodies and other intricate parts with great heat control. Precision is especially important here, as it ensures structural integrity and maintains the aesthetics of the car.
The aerospace industry has to deal with critical operations that require materials to be welded with high tensile strength. It also needs high accuracy to ensure safety is never compromised. AC DC TIG welders are great for welding aircraft components made of titanium, magnesium, and aluminum alloys. These welders provide the exact heat control needed to prevent warping while working with these delicate materials.
Many artists working with metal sculptures utilize TIG welding for its precision. It gives the artists the ability to create intricate designs without destroying the metal's structural integrity. Artists also use it because of the clean finish it provides. It also allows for artists to work with a variety of metals, such as stainless steel, bronze, and aluminum.
As with other industries that deal with seawater, the marine industry relies on strong and corrosion-resistant welds. This is why it uses TIG welding on components such as boat hulls and frames made of aluminum. The ability to switch easily between AC and DC current makes these welders a versatile choice for this industry.
Many industrial fabrication companies use AC DC TIG welders to create high-precision parts. Such parts include those used in machinery, reactors, and pressure vessels. The ability to weld a wide range of metals makes these welders a valuable asset in metal fabrication.
Output Range
Most AC DC TIG welders have an output amperage range of between 5 to 250 amps. There are some heavy-duty models that go up to 400 amps. Such a wide range allows the users to operate effectively on both thin and thick materials.
Frequency
AC current frequency on an AC DC TIG welder usually varies between 20 to 250 Hz. Higher frequencies allow deeper penetration and better cleaning, while lower frequencies permit more tungsten to build up and give a better arc. This means the frequency control also affects the welding arc's stability.
Waveform type
Most units feature different waveform types. They include sine wave, square wave, and triangular wave. Each of these has its benefits. A sine wave provides a smooth arc, while triangular waves offer a more concentrated heat for deeper penetration.
TIG Modes
Most TIG welding machines have either DC mode for welding ferrous metals or AC mode for non-ferrous materials such as aluminum. More advanced models have pulsed TIG for better heat control.
Material Thickness
AC DC TIG welders operate on various material thicknesses. Most models can handle thicknesses of 0.5mm to 10mm for thin and thick materials, respectively. This makes them adaptable for various welding projects.
Power Source
While some welders operate on single-phase power, others are on three-phase power. There are also models that are inverter-based, which makes them portable as they can plug into standard power outlets.
Electrode
Most TIG welders use a tungsten electrode with a diameter ranging from 0.4mm to 2.4mm. The size of the electrode that will be required depends on the welding current and material thickness.
Install AC DC TIG welders following the manufacturer's instructions. It ensures operation and safety.
Mounting and Placement
To place the welder, ensure the environment is dry and cool with good ventilation. The work area shouldn't have too many hazards or be too congested. After placing the welder in the ideal workspace, secure any necessary mounting brackets or stands that are required for the model.
Power Connection
There are some TIG welders that operate with single-phase power, while others need to be connected to a three-phase power supply. There are also some models that are inverter-based and require connection to a standard power outlet. For outlet machines, ensure the outlet is of the correct amperage. For the latter, use a power cord with appropriate insulation to the voltage. For three-phase models, use a rotating phase connector to ensure balanced phases. Turn off power to avoid any electrical shock when connecting.
Gas Setup
Most TIG welding machines require shielding gas to give smooth and stable welding arcs. The most commonly used gas is argon. The gas must be connected to the gas regulator. After connecting the gas hose, open the argon tank slowly and set the regulator to the required pressure. Most welds operate between 5 to 15 PSI.
Electrode and Filler Rod
To install the tungsten electrode, first, grind the electrode tip to a point. The angle should be about 20 to 30 degrees. After this, clamp the electrode into the welding holder. Set the TIG welding machine to the type of current required for the project. Use direct current for ferrous metal and alternating current for non-ferrous. Turn the current dial to the required amperage. Most models have an amperage range of 5 to 250.
Lead Connection
Most AC DC TIG welders have ground and electrode leads that need users to connect to the welder. The ground lead should be connected to the workpiece to create a circuit. Connect the electrode lead to the tungsten electrode. After the ground lead is connected to the workpiece, secure the workpiece to avoid any movement during welding.
Initial Settings
TIG welding requires the user to first set up the machine before starting. For TIG welding, the welder must set the amperage dial to the correct level. This level should correspond to the thickness of the metal being welded. They should also set the gas flow rate to the recommended PSI.
Igniting the Arc
Welders should strike the arc by touching the tungsten electrode to the metal surface, then pulling it away slightly to form a weld puddle. AC DC TIG welders have unique features that help with arc ignition. For instance, some have high-frequency start for clean ignition.
Detailed Welding Process
Once the weld puddle has formed, the welder should begin to add filler metal at the edge of the puddle. They should maintain the tungsten electrode at a consistent distance from the puddle to ensure accurate heat application. Manufacturers recommend that welders keep the electrode within 1/4 inch of the weld puddle. They should also rotate the torch to maintain precise control over the arc.
Post-Welding Procedures
After the welding is done, the welder should close the argon valve and allow the weld area to air cool. They should also keep a damp cloth or sponge near to cool the weld if a faster cooling rate is required. It is important for business owners to prioritize the cooling of the welded area, as this prevents any warping or cracking.
Regularly Inspecting Components
The major parts that require regular inspections are the gas hose and regulator, tungsten electrode, and contact point. A routine check of these parts will help the welder catch signs of wear before they interfere with operations.
Cleaning
Manufacturers advise users to routinely clean their AC DC TIG welders to remove any metal shavings, dust, or other debris that may have accumulated. They should also ensure they clean the area near the gas nozzle to prevent contaminants from entering the gas flow.
Quadrants of the Machine
Business owners should change the machine's coolant every six months or after using it for 500 hours. Welders also need to replace the tungsten electrode once it becomes too short or has a worn tip. Fewer people know that using improper electrode sizes will affect the quality of the weld. It is important for users to use electrodes with a diameter that matches the amperage. Using an electrode too small will create excess heat on the point. This causes it to break or melt. On the other hand, using one that is too large will result in poor arc stability.
Regulators and Maintenance
To ensure the regulator functions properly, users should wipe the regulator with a clean damp cloth. They should also inspect the regulator for gas leaks using a soapy solution. It will bubble in the case of a gas leak. After long use, users need to replace the entire regulator. They should also keep the internal components of the regulator lubricated. This will help it operate smoothly.
Below are some quality and safety considerations business owners can take into account when choosing AC DC TIG welders.
Certification and Standards
Welders that have certification by recognized industry organizations usually have quality standards that manufacturers adhere to. Certifications like ISO and ANSI usually indicate the equipment's safety, reliability, and performance.
Technology and Features
Welder machines with inverter technology usually offer efficient power use and more precise amperage control. These features help the welder produce consistent results even in challenging conditions.
Repair and Parts
There are some models that are more complex to service than others. For instance, models with integrated circuits are easily damaged. They are also difficult to repair compared to older models with simpler builds. Additionally, investing in a welder with commonly used parts makes replacements easier. It also ensures they are in production.
Brand Reputation
As mentioned earlier, brands with a long history of producing robust welding equipment are a strong indicator of quality. Fortunately, they have built trust with their customers. The way they trusted their products to give reliable performance over many years is a strong indicator of quality.
Grounding
Bad grounding can result in electric shock or even a welder fire. To mitigate this, business owners should ensure their TIG welders have secure grounds and that there is minimal oxide interference between the ground clamp and the work surface.
Protective Gear
A welder arc produces intense light, which can result in burns or blindness if a welder does not have protective gear like welding helmets with proper lenses. Businesses should encourage their welding staff to always wear welding gloves, jackets, and boots. They act as an added layer of protection against sparks, heat, and electric shock.
No Combustibles
Manufacturers advise that there should be no combustible materials in the welding area. They include paper, wood, and certain chemicals. To lessen the chances of fire breaking out, business owners should always inspect their surroundings before welding starts.
Emergency Readiness
Businesses should always be ready with emergency procedures in case of fire or electric shock. Having quick access to fire extinguishers and first-aid kits ensures any incident that occurs is well catered to. Businesses can go a step further by holding fire drills regularly.
Clients who have to work with stainless steel should ideally get an IGBT inverter dual AC DC tig welding machine. IGBT stands for insulated gate bipolar transistor. It is the best technology for stainless steel since it gives consistent and precise control over the welding arc. This helps create the clean and precise welds that stainless steel requires. It also comes with varying amperage control, which helps mitigate heat buildup. This makes it ideal for thinner stainless steel sheets.
For novice welders, business owners should stock machines with user-friendly features. Such features include high-frequency arc starts instead of scratch starts. They should also get machines with automatic settings. These auto jobs will help welders who are just starting adjust their machines to cater to various materials without having to do so manually. Lastly, they should get machines that are not too heavy. A lightweight TIG inverter welder will be easy to operate by newbies.
Yes, they will. An AC DC tig welder for metals works by producing a clean arc. It penetrates the metal and fuses it together. It will effectively weld copper and lead. Both these metals are challenging to weld using other methods due to their high thermal conductivity and low boiling point. What makes them ideal materials for electrical components is also what makes them difficult to weld. That is why a machine with alternating current that cleans the metal oxide is necessary. It will leave a strong weld.
Yes, it is. AC current moves in both directions. It removes the thin layer of aluminum oxide that forms over aluminum. This gives a clean welding surface. The current then penetrates deeply into the aluminum. It creates a clean and stable weld.