Newbie - Which DC Inverter ?

[Phil-UK]

Hi all,

My first post on here but I have been reading through as much as I can to narrow down my choice of DC inverter. I plan to be welding mild steel box section between 2.5mm - 4mm (metal thickness, not rods).

It's now between the TEC-ARC 165i from Weldequip or the Inverter Fusion 130MA. The IF-130MA is a bit more expensive but it turns out they're manufactured in Honiton, Devon which is about 15 miles from where I live and they have a trade counter there so it would be easy to buy and get local support for this machine. Something that seems to be very important for a DC inverter from what you all have said.

The amperage on the TEC-ARC is higher but both machines will do what I want, and it's also cheaper.

Appreciate your advice and comments on this one?

Phil

 

[malcolm]

I'd be tempted by the inverter fusion. Made in the UK which is worth supporting. I'm running a 200HF at the moment and it's lovely.

130 amps will limit you to 3.2mm rods, but that's not a problem for your metal thickness.

 

[Robotstar5]

I'd go with the local one, if you go in with cash and tell them how much the "competition" has quoted you may get a deal?

 

[reedx]

I've had a IF 130MA for a couple of years now. They're quite a big unit compared to some the other inverters out there and look like a big black cheap handbag :-) Don't let that put you off though, they're well made and I've had no problems with mine and it's burned plenty of rods.
Colin

 

[gavuk]

No secret..... i like the Invertor fusion

 

[Phil-UK]

Morning,

Thank-you for your comments, seems to be 4-0 for the Inverter Fusion. British made and local to me as well as a good machine, what more could I ask for.

Thanks again.