Argon welding machine TIG

Guide to choosing the best argon welding machine TIG
How to choose and buy the best and most affordable argon welding machine? If you need to join two pieces of metal together, an argon welding machine or a TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas Welding Machine) is a great tool to use. This device is applicable to almost any metal, it has a small size and hence it is easy to transport and can be used for many applications.

Once upon a time, welding, like many professions, was one of the jobs that people learned to earn daily bread and support their families. Today, however, both men and women alike learn to weld as home or hobby welders. For many hobbyists, welding is a way to express their artistry and possibly turn it into a career.

As a TIG welding specialist, you are looking for the best quality and safety of the weld. If you’re looking for the best argon welder on a budget, you’ve come to the right place. After careful research and study, we have compiled a list of TIG welding machines to meet the needs of hobbyists who want to become mid-level as well as professional fabricators.

There are several brands of these devices available. Winner Tools has you covered and offers the best prices online on top TIG welding machines. After purchase, these devices are ready to be sent quickly to any part of Iran. Take a look at our argon welder reviews and see which one could be your next welder!
What is argon welding?
In argon welding, TIG welding or tungsten inert gas welding, the welding arc is formed between a non-consumable tungsten electrode and the workpiece. The shielding gas is always an inert gas that does not affect the welding process itself. In TIG welding, the shielding gas is usually argon, and it protects not only the molten weld but also the electrode in the torch from oxygen.
The different methods of TIG welding are:

DC TIG welding method that uses direct current.
AC TIG welding that uses alternating current and TIG pulses.

For more information, we recommend that you read the article we wrote about TIG welding, or tungsten inert gas welding.
What type of device is an argon welding machine?
Learning to weld is not that complicated. However, it is important to understand that using any type of welding machine without learning the basics and understanding its dangers is not safe and can involve risks. We recommend that you learn welding from an experienced professional welder or someone with excellent welding experience.

In racing cars, TIG welding is used for aluminum and chrome steel. If you plan to weld one of these materials, you need a quality argon welder or TIG welder. If you have ever welded with an oxyacetylene torch, you can easily weld with a TIG machine. The TIG process uses an electric torch and the welder can feed the filler rod into the molten pool by hand.

The soft start and soft stop capabilities differentiate the TIG process from other types of electric welding. Some people like accelerator pedals for heat control if they’re working on a bench, and others like finger remotes on the burner if they’re working in areas considered out of position. The remote controls the heat during welding.
How does an argon welding machine work?
Before using the TIG unit, you should be familiar with the parts of the argon welding machine and the function of each part. The work lead, often called a ground cable with a clamp, must be connected to the workpiece or the metal surface on which the workpiece is placed. The welding lead will have an electric TIG torch on the end. Along with the cable, there is a small line that carries argon gas. The inert gas acts like a flux blanket on a stick electrode, as it protects the weld from airborne contaminants.

The torch is separated into several parts. A small tungsten rod (available in several sizes) is the electrode. This electrode does not burn like a filler rod or a filler rod. Tungsten can be sharpened into a point or ball depending on what you are welding.

A copper collet holds the tungsten and is used to adjust the length that the tungsten protrudes from the cup. The ceramic cup (usually pink) can be opened and replaced if necessary. It should be noted that several cup outlet diameters are available.

In the body of the collet, there are several cross holes that allow gas to pass into the cup and surround the tungsten. This removes oxygen that can contaminate the weld. Loosening the back cap loosens the grip of the collet on the tungsten and allows the tungsten to be removed for sharpening or replacement.
Types of controls in the TIG welding machine
Argon welding machines use a variable amperage control with a foot. Once the desired maximum amperage is set on the device, this allows you to change the amperage up to the preset maximum ampere. This is useful for welding alloy steels such as chrome-moly 4130.

The foot control allows you to slowly start the heat and slowly reduce the heat after the welding is done. This soft start and soft stop prevents the temperature from hitting the metal. Many alloy steels used in racing cars are sensitive to thermal shock. Welding by other methods may result in brittle welds.

An argon welding machine has several controls. One of the most critical controls for aluminum welding is balance, which maintains cleanliness against aluminum penetration surfaces. The higher the balance, the more influence you will have. Typical settings range from 70 to 80 percent, or 7-8.

You can also choose normal or pulse mode. When using pulse mode on aluminum, the amp will automatically change. This can reduce the heat on the workpiece and help you achieve a better weld as well as reduce the heat affected area.
Important points before deciding to buy an argon welding machine / TIG welding machine
Before buying argon welding machines, you should pay attention to several important points:
What do you propose to do with it?
You need to consider how you will use the device. Do you want to have TIG welding as a home welding machine or are you planning to use it in your current profession? Thinking about this can help you make a decision.
Size of the job
Consider the size and complexity of the task. TIG welding machines are great for performing difficult maneuvers and controlling penetration depth, but this comes at the cost of speed.
Power needed
There is a big difference in the amount of power needed to repair your parking garage door and to attach steel beams on the job. Also, even in smaller devices, you can get a device with an inverter power core to make your work more efficient and productive.
What metals do you want to weld?
The ability to weld metals such as mild steel, carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum and other metals depends on the ability of the welding machine. Some argon welding machines are capable of welding aluminum and some may not be able to handle this task.

Another thing is the thickness of the metal. It is better to consider the thickness of the metal you are going to weld because this determines the current range or the amperage required in the welding machine. Clarity on these matters is vital to choosing the right car.
Where do you want to use your TIG machine?
There are argon welding machines that can work with 220 or 110 volts. With the dual function of these devices, you can do your projects both at home and in your workshop.
Price, what is your budget?
The cost and price of purchasing an argon welding machine is always an important thing to consider. You can either go for cheap TIG machines around $200 or go for mid-range TIG welders that can cost less than $1,000.

The advantage of cheap machines is that you can work with them as a beginner and if something happens to the machine you may not be too upset! Because you didn’t pay much for it. A negative fact about cheap argon welding machines is that they may not be built to last, meaning they don’t last long and break down quickly.

You should also keep in mind that you cannot start TIG welding the moment you receive the machine. Depending on the argon welder you buy and its power supply range, you’ll need to pay for tungsten electrodes, argon gas, and more.

Winner Tools has several options available in different price ranges, and you can refine your search to stay within the money range you’re most comfortable with.
Duty cycle
The duty cycle of a welding machine is the total amount of time you can operate the welding machine without it overheating. Usually we consider a 10 minute cycle. If your argon welder says 30% duty cycle at 200 amps, that means you can weld continuously for 3 minutes and then let the machine cool down for 7 minutes. So before making a decision, evaluate your need and understand these features.
Is the welding machine only for TIG welding or can other weldings be done with it (The next question is multi-process welders or only TIG)
Today, you can buy welding machines that can perform several types of welding processes. There are welding machines that can perform TIG and Stick welding or MIG, Stick, TIG welding, etc. Here, you have to set your priorities. Priority can be TIG welding primarily or MIG and other secondary processes.
Weight and portability
If you plan to use the argon welder in more than one location (such as home and workshop), portability is an essential item to consider. Equipment weight is an important factor here.
Having a guarantee
Warranty is another important factor in purchasing a TIG welding machine. Please read and understand the warranty period and warranty clauses clearly.
What are the advantages of using an argon welding machine?

TIG welders are affordable, versatile, making them perfect for a variety of jobs like repairing farm equipment or welding your porch railing. TIG welding has many advantages, which you can read about below.
Argon welding machine can be used on almost any type of metal including aluminum and stainless steel. In fact, the only metal incompatible with TIG arc welding is cast iron.
Much spatter does not occur with this type of welding.
The use of filler metal is not always necessary depending on the application.
The welder in the argon welding machine has a much higher level of control than other machines. It is much easier to create difficult welds and control the depth of penetration.
It is much easier to create difficult welds and control the depth of penetration.

The best argon welding machines in 2022
Lincoln Electric Square Wave TIG 200 TIG Welder
Price: $1,839.99
Key Features
The Lincoln Electric Square Wave 200 can be considered the best argon welder overall as a TIG welder made by a mid-range and reliable brand from the USA and very useful for hobbyists, craftsmen and small builders. Enthusiasts, small and medium welders and even professionals can use it because it has advanced features while being easy to use. It is an excellent TIG machine for aluminum welding.

This portable welding machine has two voltages of 120 and 230 volts, that is, you can take it anywhere, you can connect it to 120 or 230 volts and use it. It has an LED display. AC TIG 200 provides smooth and stable welding on aluminum and DC TIG provides smooth welding on steel, stainless steel and alloy steels. For aluminum welding, it is necessary to start the machine with high frequency.

To weld a wider or tighter weld bead, users can easily adjust the AC frequency control. AC Balance can be adjusted to provide greater cleaning performance on dirty aluminum or to maximize penetration in thick materials. TIG 200 features help you learn welding skills and become a professional. The pulse mode feature also helps you become a better argon welder faster. In addition, we must say that this argon welding machine has a three-year limited warranty.
Strengths

It can weld aluminum, steel, stainless steel and other metals.
It can be easily moved due to its lightness.
It has a user-friendly interface.
It works with two voltages of 120 and 230 volts.
Its amps can be operated by foot
Building a credible and reliable brand.
It is a dual AC/DC and DC stick welding machine.
Useful for hobbyists, craftsmen and builders.

weak points

It is expensive and those interested may not have the money to buy this device.
More adjustability is needed when welding thin metals.

Everlast Power TIG 210 EXT TIG Welder
Price: $1,599.00
Key Features
The Everlast Power TIG 210 EXT medium range argon welder is designed and built for beginners, hobbyists, small and medium builders, and professionals. It has the ability to connect to dual voltage 110 and 220 volts and dual AC/DC and stick TIG processes.

This TIG welding machine has a digital microprocessor control that allows accurate control and management of all welding parameters and functions, and the presence of this microprocessor control increases productivity, welding quality and the ability to make precise adjustments.

It also has 3 AC waveforms i.e. advanced square wave, soft square wave and triangle wave for more control during aluminum welding. The presence of IGBT technology in it enables standard type pulse for AC and DC and advanced special pulse for AC. In other words, this argon welding machine has two pulse modes. The standard and advanced pulse provides control during welding of thin aluminum and greater penetration on thick aluminum plate. All these controls look confusing, but they are easier to use.

With advanced AC pulse enabled, the unit may be able to weld more than 1/2″ aluminum. This device has programmable memory, adjustable AC frequency and adjustable AC balance control.

This welding machine may seem like it has a complicated list of features, but it’s very simple due to the intuitive design that makes it quick and easy to set up even for hobbyists. You can buy this welding machine with a five-year limited warranty.
Strengths

It has a programmable memory.
It has 3 AC waveforms i.e. advanced square wave, smooth square wave and triangular wave.
It has a 5-year limited warranty.
It has two voltages and can work with 110 and 220 volts.
It has two standard and advanced AC pulses.
Building a famous brand.

weak points

The settings and controls can be very complicated for a novice.

AMICO Power CTS-200, 50A Plasma Cutter, 200A TIG-Torch & Stick Arc Welder
Price: $249
Key Features
It can be said that CTS-200 is the best 3-in-1 small welding machine that can weld plasma, TIG and stick. This machine is suitable for beginners in welding, ordinary welders and small manufacturers. This welding machine has advanced IGBT technology, synergic control but very easy and simple operation. This argon welder weighs 40 pounds and is easy to carry and move, so it can be taken outside the workshop for field work.

You can weld mild steel, stainless steel and other metals and cut metals up to 3/4 inch thick using TIG welding. 50-50 amp plasma cutter can cut metals up to 3/4 inch thick and its maximum separation thickness is 1 inch. This argon welding machine has been tested in America and has a one year limited warranty.
Strengths

Three-in-one welding machine, 50 amp plasma cutter, 200 amp DC TIG torch, and 200 amp DC stick welding
Portable and useful for on-site repair work
Affordable for beginner welders and hobbyists

weak points

Cannot weld aluminum.
It has only one year limited warranty.

PRIMEWELD TIG225X 225 Amp IGBT AC/DC TIG/Stick Welde
Price: $869
Key Features
Argon Weld TIG 225X AC/DC TIG welding machine with pulse is a versatile welding machine and you can use it for various welding projects such as car body or metal furniture, water tanks or metal fence. You can also use it to weld aluminum and get quality welds.

This is the best TIG welder under $1,000 for beginners, casual welders, and small builders, featuring a CK Worldwide 17 Superflex TIG torch with Flex Head and accessories.

The pulse function of this machine works well for welding aluminum, stainless steel and thin metals. High frequency (HF) start and remote current control via foot pedal make welding easy. DC TIG provides the low temperature control required when welding thin metals such as car bodies. You can use this AC/DC 225 amp TIG welder to weld ½ inch thick metals. Provide. This welding machine has a three-year warranty, and Prime Weld promises support seven days a week.
Strengths

Can be connected to two voltages of 110 and 220 volts
TIG welding capability with AC/DC and DC Stick
It has a foot pedal to control the amperage
It has 2T and 4T modes

weak points

Expensive

AHP AlphaTIG 200X 200 Amp IGBT AC DC TIG/Stick Welder
Price: $750
Key Features
The AlphaTIG 203XI is a perfect welding machine for beginner welders, casual welders and small fabricators with a moderate budget. This argon welding machine has a fully controlled LCD display, fully adjustable AC frequency and AC balance settings, improved penetration, increased tungsten life, arc cone and etching width. It also has advanced inverter technology with PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) using IGBT technology.

You will get the upgraded Alpha 2021 203 Xi model with fully controlled LCD display. This welding machine works with 110 and 220 volts and can weld 1/4″ aluminum and 3/8″ stainless steel. AC frequency settings and AC balance are fully adjustable and come with a three-year limited warranty.
Strengths

Dual voltage 110 and 220 volts
AC/DC and stick welding capability
High frequency TIG start
It can weld aluminum, steel, stainless steel and other metals.
A good welding machine for a beginner or a professional builder in this price range
Pulse frequency 0.5 to 200 Hz

weak points

Ambiguity of long-term reliability
The ground clamp supplied with the welding machine may break quickly.

Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD AC/DC 200 Amp TIG/Stick Welder
Price: –
Key Features
Argon TIG 200 AC/DC welding machine is an inverter based TIG welding machine and uses advanced inverter technology, IGBT circuits and PWM technology. This welding machine is capable of TIG AC or DC welding. You can weld aluminum, carbon steel, stainless steel, etc. with this machine, the user can use DC current to weld carbon steel, stainless steel and other metals, and AC current to weld aluminum and aluminum alloys.

The TIG 200 GD is equipped with full-function TIG welding features, start and stop current (amps), upslope, downslope, fully adjustable pulse, AC balance, AC frequency and 2T and 4T modes.

Its rocker-style foot pedal is professionally designed for amperage control. This argon welding machine comes with a three-year limited warranty.
Strengths

Equipped with CK17 Superflex head Weldpro torch
Dual voltage 110 and 220 volts
2T and 4T modes
It can weld aluminum, steel, stainless steel and other metals.
AC/DC and stick welding capability
High frequency TIG start
Has a foot pedal

weak points

Ambiguity of long-term reliability
Only high frequency TIG start is possible and there is no ‘lift TIG’ start option.

LOTOS TIG200 AC/DC 200A AC/DC TIG Welder
Price: –
Key Features
This argon welding machine is the best TIG welding machine for aluminum welding because the 200 amp AC square wave inverter gives precise aluminum welds. With a simple set of controls (amps, pre-current, post-current, etc.), this device helps you fine-tune the device. 3.8 inch weld thickness can be used for mild steel, stainless steel and aluminum.
Strengths

Square wave for precise aluminum welding
It can weld aluminum, mild steel, stainless steel and other metals.
Dual voltage 110 and 220 volts
Double AC/DC and stick welding capability
Weld thickness 3/8
Affordable welding machine for the professional welder as well as the weekend welder for fun.
It has a foot pedal to control the amperage

weak points

Ambiguity of long-term reliability
Heavy duty (about 58 pounds)
The controls are a bit confusing
One year limited warranty only

YESWELDER TIG-205DS HF TIG/Stick/Arc TIG welder
Price: –
Key Features
It is considered the best domestic argon welding machine and it has a reasonable and cheap price for beginner welders and those interested in learning TIG welding skills. The TIG 205 DS features IGBT soft switch technology, excellent arc stability and 15 to 200 amps for thin metal welding. The HF (high frequency) feature helps TIG start up easily and extends the life of the tungsten electrode.

This device has an amperage LCD display, automatic temperature control and stepless current adjustment (amps). Other features include automatic voltage fluctuation compensation, over and under voltage protection, over current protection and overload protection.

Inverter technology This device, which uses transistor bridge technology (inverter), means continuous current rectification, which makes the units more efficient and compact.
Strengths

Inexpensive welding machine for beginner welders and those interested in argon welding
Dual voltage 110 and 220 volts
LCD amperage display
HF (high frequency) feature for easy TIG start and start
IGBT soft switch technology
Dual TIG and stick welding
Stepless amp setting

weak points

Cannot weld aluminum.
The foot pedal is on/off type.
The amp control knob is not very responsive.
It has only one year limited warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is argon an explosive?
Since argon is not highly reactive, it is not prone to explosion. However, if you puncture a pressurized argon bottle, the container may explode due to the pressure being released. The biggest safety concern in using argon is ensuring proper ventilation. The biggest safety concern in using argon is ensuring proper ventilation.
Is argon expensive?
Argon is economical enough to be used on a large scale. However, carbon dioxide is cheaper than argon. This is why two double shielded flux cores are often used with 100% carbon dioxide. Argon is not essential for FCAW, but it certainly improves the characteristics of the arc.
Does argon gas decay?
Since argon is a noble gas and does not react with other chemicals, it will never deteriorate.
What is the best use of TIG welding?
TIG welding can be used to weld many metals such as carbon steels, stainless steels, aluminum, etc. But due to the cleanliness and hygiene of the type of welding performed by the argon welding machine, it is better to use it for welding stainless steel parts and accessories needed in the chemical, food and other industries. TIG is capable of welding thin metals. TIG can also be used for welding sheet metal parts of cars and motorcycles.
How much current is used in TIG welding?
You can perform TIG welding with both AC and DC power sources. The amount of current used depends on the type of metal and its thickness.
Can you weld aluminum with DC TIG welding machine?
Nope! Aluminum is usually welded with an AC TIG welding machine.
When should we use air-cooled TIG torches and when should we use water-cooled TIG torches?
The use of air-cooled TIG torches and water-cooled TIG torches depends on the welding current. Welding torches with low currents (up to 150 amps) are usually air-cooled, and higher currents (over 150 amps) are water-cooled.
Can I use TIG welding for outdoor work?
No, we do not recommend using TIG welding for outdoor work. Turbulence of the surrounding air disrupts the shielding gas and lowers the welding quality.
What is the difference between TIG and MIG welding?
The biggest difference between the two is that in the case of the former, the welding rods are inserted manually, and in the latter, there is a continuous feed wire that is activated automatically when the trigger is pulled.
final word
In this article, Winner Tools has done its best to review the best-selling argon welding machines and provide some useful tips to help you make a wise decision to buy a TIG welding machine. We’ve reviewed each argon welding machine in detail to help you better understand how they work and their pros and cons, and finally, we’ve answered some frequently asked questions in the field.

We hope our reviews will help you find the right TIG welding machine for you next and have a good shopping experience! If you have any questions in this field, you can ask the experienced experts of Winner tools and ask them for advice.

Credible sources used in writing this article: workshopinsider.com and millerwelds.com