After weighing up the pros and cons of modifying my old SIP welder vs. buying a new machine (thread here: http://www.mig-welding.co.uk/forum/...-buy-a-new-less-rubbish-budget-mig-set.64723/), I've decided to go with the new machine.
Factoring in getting a few quid back by tidying up the SIP and eBaying it, I've got a couple of options within budget...
1. Inverter Fusion i-Tech MIG150
http://www.inverterfusion.co.uk/i-tech-mig150/
(more detail in the manual: http://www.inverterfusion.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/i-TECH-MIG150-User-Manual-03.pdf)
2. CWS Best MIG 160i
http://www.weldingdirect.co.uk/cws-best-mig-160i-mig-welder-10672-p.asp
Both are inverter machines, both go down to 20A (which is useful for me as I'll be working on vehicle bodywork), both fairly similar dimensions, both come with a Euro torch and can also do MMA (stick) welding as well. CWS machine goes 10A higher at the top end and better duty cycle at high outputs, but it'll be rare if ever that I want to use more than 60A. Inverter Fusion one reckons to be capable of operating as a scratch-start TIG as well.
Both also have 2 years' warranty, think they're both Chinese imports but with the advantage of some extra QA checks and backup from a UK supplier.
Just want to see if anyone has had experience with either machine or manufacturer and can recommend either over the other.
Mucho gracias!
Jonny
Factoring in getting a few quid back by tidying up the SIP and eBaying it, I've got a couple of options within budget...
1. Inverter Fusion i-Tech MIG150
http://www.inverterfusion.co.uk/i-tech-mig150/
(more detail in the manual: http://www.inverterfusion.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/i-TECH-MIG150-User-Manual-03.pdf)
2. CWS Best MIG 160i
http://www.weldingdirect.co.uk/cws-best-mig-160i-mig-welder-10672-p.asp
Both are inverter machines, both go down to 20A (which is useful for me as I'll be working on vehicle bodywork), both fairly similar dimensions, both come with a Euro torch and can also do MMA (stick) welding as well. CWS machine goes 10A higher at the top end and better duty cycle at high outputs, but it'll be rare if ever that I want to use more than 60A. Inverter Fusion one reckons to be capable of operating as a scratch-start TIG as well.
Both also have 2 years' warranty, think they're both Chinese imports but with the advantage of some extra QA checks and backup from a UK supplier.
Just want to see if anyone has had experience with either machine or manufacturer and can recommend either over the other.
Mucho gracias!
Jonny