Welding inverter operating principle. Advantages, disadvantages and operating principle of the welding inverter

Modern equipment for electric welding offers many modern solutions for productive and productive robots, including a new generation of welding machines - inverters. What is it and how does a welding inverter work?

A modern inverter is a relatively small unit in a plastic case with a total weight of 5-10 kg (depending on the type and type of model). Most models have a strong textile strap that allows the welder to hold the unit on him during work and carry it with him when moving around the object. On the front part of the body there is a control board for the welding inverter - voltage regulators and other parameters that make it possible to flexibly adjust the power during operation.

Modern welding machines are classified into household, semi-professional and professional, which differ in power consumption, setting range, work performance and other characteristics. On the market, models from Russian and foreign manufacturers are popular with buyers. The rating of the most demanded includes CEDR MMA-160, Resanta SAI-160, ASEA-160D, TORUS-165, FUBAG IN 163, Rivcen Arc 160 and other models.

How does a welding inverter work

The inverter has a different principle of operation and performance compared to transformer power supplies. Such a device and the principle of operation of the inverter welding machine allows the use of smaller transformers than mains transformers. Modern inverters for welding are equipped with a control panel that allows you to control the current conversion processes.

The principle of operation of the welding inverter can be described in detail by the stages of conversion of current energy:

We offer you to watch the video and consolidate knowledge on the structure and principle of operation of the welding inverter

Basic parameters of welding inverters

Power consumption of inverters

An important indicator of the operation of a type of equipment is the power consumption of the welding inverter. It depends on the category of equipment. For example, household inverters are designed to operate on a single-phase AC 220 V. Semi-professional and professional devices usually consume energy from a three-phase AC network up to 380 V. It should be remembered that in a household electrical network the maximum current load should not exceed 160 A, and all fittings , including power breakers, plugs and sockets are not rated above this figure. When a device of higher power is connected, it may cause tripping of circuit breakers, burnout of the output contacts on the plug, or burnout of electrical wiring.

Open circuit voltage of inverter

The open circuit voltage of the welding inverter is the second important indicator of the operation of this type of device. The open circuit voltage is the voltage between the positive and negative output contacts in the absence of an arc, which occurs during the conversion of the mains current on two series converters. The standard idle speed should be in the range of 40-90V, which is a guarantee of safe operation and ensures easy ignition of the inverter arc.

Duration of inclusion of the welding inverter

Another important classifying indicator of the operation of machines for inverter welding is its on-time (DC), that is, the maximum time of continuous operation of the device. The fact is that during continuous operation under high voltage, as well as depending on the ambient temperature, the unit can overheat and turn off after a different period of time. The duration of activation is indicated by the manufacturers as a percentage. For example, 30% on-time means the equipment's ability to operate continuously at maximum current for 3 minutes out of 10. Decreasing the frequency of the current will extend the on-time. Different manufacturers indicate different PV, depending on the accepted standards for working with the device.

What are the differences from previous generations of welding machines

Previously, various types of units were used for welding, with the help of which the output current of the required frequency was obtained to start the arc. Various types of transformers, generators and other equipment had limitations in operation, largely due to their large external characteristics. Most of the previous generation machines worked only with bulky transformers that converted the mains alternating current into high currents in the secondary winding, making it possible to start the welding arc. The main disadvantage of transformers was their large size and weight. The principle of operation of the inverter (increasing the output frequency of the current) made it possible to reduce the size of the installation, as well as to obtain greater flexibility in the settings of the device.

Advantages and main characteristics of inverter devices

The advantages that make the inverter welding power source the most popular type of welding machine include:

high efficiency - up to 95% with relatively low electricity consumption;
high duration of inclusion - up to 80%;
protection against voltage surges;
additional power increase in the event of arc breaking (so-called arc afterburner);
small dimensions, compactness, which makes it easy to carry and store the unit;
relatively high level of work safety, good electrical insulation;
the best welding result is a neat high-quality seam;
the ability to work with hardly compatible metals and alloys;
the ability to use any type of electrodes;
the ability to regulate the main parameters during the operation of the inverter.

Main disadvantages:

higher price in comparison with other types of welding machines;
expensive repairs.

Separately, mention should be made of one more feature of this type of welding machines. The inverter is very sensitive to moisture, dust and other small particles. If dust, especially metal, gets inside, the device may be damaged. The same goes for moisture. Although manufacturers equip modern inverters with protection against moisture and dust, it is still worth following the rules and precautions when working with them: do not work with the device in a humid environment, near a working "grinder", etc.

Low temperatures are another "fad" of all inverters. In cold weather, the device may not turn on due to a triggered overload sensor. At low temperatures, condensation can also form, which can damage the internal circuitry and damage the unit. Therefore, during regular operation of the inverter, it is necessary to regularly "blow" it from dust, protect it from moisture and do not work at low temperatures.

But still relatively recently, one would have to look for a workshop or call a welder who would bring a bulky and heavy welding machine. But with the advent of the so-called. Inverters, such problems are a thing of the past. Now you can buy such equipment yourself relatively inexpensively - since the assortment on the shelves of electrical goods stores is very wide.

Welding inverters really quickly conquered the market, and there are many reasons for this. This is affordability, small size, and light weight - it can be listed for a long time, but about everything in order.

To begin with, it should be said that many believe that the correct name for such equipment is spelled and read as "inventory", which is fundamentally wrong. But, even looking for material on this topic on the Internet and typing "inventory" in the search line, the system will send users exactly to the pages from the article about the welding inverter, and therefore it is probably better to pronounce this word correctly.

Now you need to understand what a welding inverter is, is such a machine really that good? What are its advantages, and maybe disadvantages, how does it work and what does it consist of and how does it work? There are many questions, it's time to look for answers.

Principle of operation

Of course, one should start with the principle of operation of such units, consider superficially the device of the welding inverter. Compared with conventional transformer welding machines, a completely different way of working is embodied here. After all, what is an inverter? This means that an electronic unit must be present in its circuit, which converts direct current into alternating current. Then, again, how can this help in welding or making such a device? Let's try to answer these questions.

The thing is that the alternating current of the network first passes through the rectifier, which converts it into the same 220 V, but then, direct current is supplied to the inverter. The inverter unit itself converts the current to DC again, but its frequency increases to 30-50 kHz. And after that, the high-frequency current is already supplied to the transformer, which lowers the voltage, thereby increasing the current, but already of a higher frequency than it was in transformer devices. And finally, alternating current of high frequency and strength is supplied to the secondary rectifier, which makes it suitable for arc welding.

The advantages of such a conversion are obvious - it is a reduction in the size of the transformer due to an increase in the efficiency, which reaches 92% in a welding inverter. But this is only the general principle of operation of the welding inverter, because there are many complex circuits in the high-frequency current converter, which are practically beyond the power of a person who is not knowledgeable in electronics.

General characteristics

What interests the average consumer? Of course, the possibility of choosing such units and technical characteristics that you should pay attention to when purchasing an inverter device. The main ones are:

Power consumption. This parameter is very important. After all, modern inverter welding machines are both professional and domestic, designed to be connected to a regular 220 V. But, in any case, the maximum output current should not be less than 160 A, because stock has not bother anyone yet.
Open circuit voltage. Select here an inverter with a range of 40 to 90 V. This will ensure normal operation and subsequent easy arc striking.
Inverter turn-on time. The fact is that the device can turn off during operation, because constant work at high currents can adversely affect the elements of its electronics. After that, he needs some time. This parameter is specified as a percentage. For example, if 40% is indicated, it means that at high currents the device is able to work for 4 minutes out of 10.

It is also important to pay attention to the additional functions that may be present. “Forced ignition”, “Anti-stick” and “Hot start” are present in all units today. But it happens that inverters are equipped with the possibility of plasma welding, an automatic machine, etc. In any case, the choice of additional functions always depends on the consumer.

Advantages and disadvantages

Naturally, like any other device, such an inverter welding machine has both advantages and disadvantages. And for a start, it is worth considering its cons, because there are fewer of them. Among the most noticeable disadvantages are:

Cost. Of course, if we compare transformer devices with professional inverter welding devices, then we can note some high cost. But nowadays it is even cheaper to buy an inverter for household needs, and therefore this is not such a big drawback.
Expensive maintenance in case of breakdown. Indeed, repairing such devices is not cheap. After all, what is inverter welding? This is mainly electronic equipment, in contrast to transformer equipment, in which there is nothing except copper coils.
The devices require careful handling, they are very afraid of moisture and dust. Yes, the electronic filling, namely the inverter itself, does not tolerate aggressive environments such as dust, humidity, etc.
The length of the wires included in the kit does not exceed the length of 2.5 m. Of course, this limits the possibilities of use, but again, it does not become critical, because the inverter is lightweight and small in size. This allows it to be carried anywhere on the shoulder. Then what is it - a disadvantage or an advantage? Rather, it can be attributed to the benefits, if you look at it from the other side. The wires will not get tangled, and this fact will add mobility to the unit.

It turns out that the shortcomings, even if they are, are insignificant. And what about the merits?

Inverters have enough advantages. Let's analyze the main ones:

Power and adjustment range. In terms of these parameters, such devices are far ahead of conventional transformer welding machines. It is very convenient to regulate the output current, the indicator is displayed on the display, which can be set to the desired value with an accuracy of a volt. For this reason, the risk of metal overheating disappears and the quality of welding increases, and the strength of the seam increases.
Weight and size. Compared with conventional units, the inverter is generally unique. Very small dimensions and light weight allow you to carry it on your shoulder without taking off all day without much fatigue.
The high efficiency of these devices and, as a result, low power consumption.
When working with an inverter machine, the weld is more accurate due to less metal spatter. This is achieved due to the high frequency of the current.
These devices are universal. There is a possibility of using one device in different types of welding (plasma, automatic, etc.).

Of course, there are other advantages to such welders, but one advantage is worth dwelling on separately.

Using the inverter by a beginner

If an inexperienced master starts to cook with the help of a transformer welding machine, it is quite natural that his electrode periodically "sticks", and when it comes off, the coating flies off. As a result, we have a sloppy seam, lack of fusion and high consumption of electrodes. In addition, it is difficult for a beginner to adjust the output current, which is fraught with burning through the iron.

The inverter is irreplaceable in this sense. Moreover, the current is adjusted very conveniently, as already mentioned. It has anti-sticking protection. Applying a higher frequency at the moment of contact, the inverter instantly strikes the arc, and then normalizes the current. As a result, this problem does not arise.

Also, by automatically adjusting the frequency, such a device helps in a better quality and without burning through the metal as needed, which will help an inexperienced craftsman a lot.

Well, plus to everything - the accuracy of the seam and the economy of consumables in the form of electrodes.

Summing up this article, it is safe to say that inverter welding machines have made an undoubted breakthrough in their field. And regardless of the purpose for which such a unit was purchased, it will undoubtedly be a good assistant to the master. The main thing is to choose the right inverter when buying and monitor its condition during operation.

Welding inverters are more and more confidently occupying the niche of industrial welding equipment, replacing traditional transformer technology. There is no doubt that this trend is global in nature.

Inverter equipment objectively copes with the tasks it faces more successfully.

The superiority of welding inverters over classical transformer-type converters can be seen both in technological and economic aspects.

If you briefly list the advantages acquired by implementing an inverter, you get something like the following:

higher efficiency, exceeding 90%, which predetermines the very device of the welding inverter, characterized by the absence of magnetic losses in the steel core of the transformer, inherent in the "classic";
the ability to work under conditions of changing the level of the supply voltage over a wide range, without reducing the technological parameters;
the possibility of very accurate setting of the welding current with digital indication of its value and rigid maintenance of the level during the welding process;
dramatically reduced overall dimensions and weight of the structure;
a whole range of completely new possibilities inherent only in inverter devices, here are just a few of them.

New features include the presence of specific functions, including hot start, anti sticking, arc force, and others, making the welding process accessible even to a beginner. It is possible to use electrodes designed for welding, both alternating and direct current.

As for the commonly called disadvantages inherent in this type of equipment, first of all, we are talking about the relatively high price of these devices.

In this regard, the following can be said. Remember how the prices of computer and mobile novelties have changed literally for several years. Further improvement of technology and an increase in mass production will inevitably lead to a significant reduction in prices for welding inverters.

Explanations on the diagram

The principle of operation of an inverter-based welding machine is illustrated by the diagram.

The frequency of the current generated during operation of the inverter reaches a value of several tens of kilohertz. It is the high frequency that underlies the principle of operation of the inverter welder.

Thanks to the principle of high-frequency conversion, it was possible to achieve a decrease in weight and a decrease in the size of welding machines several times.

This is mainly due to the very low weight and dimensions of high-frequency transformers, capacitors and chokes.

Current control

The regulation of the welding current of the inverter is carried out by means of an electronic controller with feedback, shown in the diagram. With the help of a potentiometer located on the front panel of the welding inverter, the required welding current is selected.

When you turn the knob of the potentiometer, a certain level of the reference voltage is set at the input of logic elements built on operational amplifiers.

The signal received via the feedback line from the current sensor located at the output of the apparatus is compared by the comparator with the level of the voltage specified by the regulating potentiometer.

If the voltage levels of the driving circuit and the current sensor signal do not match, the amplitude of the control pulse entering the controller changes.

In this case, the duty cycle of the pulses generated by the controller changes, which causes a change in the switching mode of the transistors and, ultimately, the value of the welding current.

That is, the principle of regulation is that the circuit always strives to maintain a correspondence between the values \u200b\u200bof the set and actual current, which ensures its stability.

The TL494 microcircuit manufactured by the American company Texas Instruments, or its analogs, is usually used as a controller that generates adjustable pulse-width modulation signals.

The given block diagram shows only the principle of operation and interaction of individual functional blocks. Detailed wiring diagram for each type of inverters can have individual characteristics.

Automatic functions of welding equipment

To understand how inverter welding machines work in different situations, you should familiarize yourself with the principle of operation of some of their functions.

ARC FORCE

This function is designed to force the arc. In the process of the welder's work, sometimes a drop of the molten electrode, without coming off in time and not getting into the weld pool, freezes, reducing the gap.

This could result in the electrode sticking to the workpiece. The principle of operation of arc force is a short-term increase in current, which "blows away" a drop of metal.

ANTI STICK

At the beginning of work, during the ignition of the arc, the electrode can stick to the workpiece. The principle of the anti stick function is that at this moment there is a sharp decrease in the welding current. After the electrode is detached, the operating mode of the device returns to normal.

HOT START

The operation of this option helps to easily ignite the electric arc. The principle of this automatic function is simple. When the arc is ignited, at the moment the electrode is detached from the workpiece, a short-term increase in the value of the welding current occurs, which contributes to a more reliable ignition of the arc.

All functions contribute to faster and more reliable operation of the inverter, which ultimately leads to a high quality weld.

Traditional welding units, in the design of which rather bulky transformers are necessarily included, are today vigorously replacing inverters for welding. To understand the operation of a welding inverter operating on a voltage of 140 volts, you need to figure out what elements it consists of, what scheme it uses, its functional features, and identify the pros and cons of the tool.

Inverter - a modern tool designed for welding. Devices of this type are intensively displacing welding devices equipped with transformers, generators, rectifiers from car workshops, garages.

The principle of operation of such an apparatus, similar to any other welding equipment, is based on the generation of the maximum current required to excite the arc, its further stable operation. Typically, an arc is formed between the electrode and the metal workpieces to be welded. As a result of this process, the metal melts and fills the voids between the parts to be joined, a very strong weld is formed, which is no different from monolithic products. In traditional welding machines, a powerful current was generated by a standard transformer, in inverter equipment, the current is increased using a different technology.

General principle of operation of inverter devices

The conversion of current in inverter welders, in contrast to transformer ones, takes place in several stages using a low power transformer, the dimensions of which practically do not exceed a pack of cigarettes, and an electronic circuit.

For inverter equipment, an additional control system is provided, thanks to which it is much easier to work with the tool, and the weld seam is of a sufficiently high quality.

The mains voltage conversion is as follows:

Primarily, the input current with parameters - 220V, 50A is passed through the rectifier of the device, is reformed into a constant one, at the same time it is smoothed by filters.
The DC voltage obtained by the modulator is converted again into an AC voltage, but its frequency is already almost 100 kHz.
The next step is straightening, lowering the voltage to the required value for performing welding work.

The use of a high-frequency converter made it possible to use mini-transformers. This makes the inverters much more compact and lightweight. For example, in order for the inverter to produce a welding current of 160A, a transformer weighing 250 grams will be enough. For comparison: for traditional welding, a transformer weighing 18 kg is required to obtain the same welding current.

Electronics in the process of operation of inverter devices is of great importance. It is necessary for the feedback from the electric arc. This makes it possible to clearly maintain its parameters at the required level. Microprocessors instantly prevent the smallest deviations. As a result, the stability of the arc is guaranteed!

How does a welding inverter work?

Conversion in the power inverter is carried out as follows:

Alternating current from the 220V network is converted into direct current.
Further, the direct current is again reformed into alternating current by means of the electrical circuit of the apparatus, but already with a sufficiently higher frequency.
The high-frequency voltage decreases, the current increases.
The resulting high frequency current, reduced voltage, high strength is converted into direct current, which is directly used to perform welding.

The invention of modern inverter equipment made it possible to significantly reduce the weight and dimensions of welding. In machines of this type, the adjustment of the welding current is much more efficient. The dimensions of the equipment depend on the frequency of the current. The higher it is, the smaller the size of the inverter.

The main task of any inverter unit is to increase the frequency of the mains electric current. Perhaps this is due to the use of transistors switching at a frequency of 60-80 Hz. But, as a rule, only direct current is supplied to the transistors, and in a standard power grid it is alternating with a frequency of 50 Hz. In order to make the alternating current constant, the inverters are equipped with special rectifiers made on the basis of a diode bridge.

In welders of this type, after the transistor unit, which forms an alternating current of increased frequency, a transformer is placed that reduces the voltage, which increases the current. To regulate high-frequency current and voltage, compact mini transformers are used, which are not inferior in power to their bulky counterparts.

Benefits

Low power consumption... For a standard transformer, when using electrodes with a diameter of 3 mm, the power of the electrical network will be of the order of 8 kW, and for an inverter, no more than 3 kW is needed when working with 4 mm electrodes. At idle, inverter-type welding also consumes much less electrical energy.
High efficiency... The minimum cost of electromagnetic induction formed in standard-type welding transformers makes it possible to achieve the efficiency of inverter equipment in excess of 90 percent. The energy consumed by welding is almost entirely spent on the electric arc.
Light weight, small dimensions... As mentioned above, the use of high frequency for converting current made it possible to significantly reduce the size of the transformer designed to reduce the voltage.
When performing welding work, the spatter of molten metal is minimal... This is especially noticeable when working with small diameter electrodes. In this case, the arc is ignited and works quite softly, as a result, practically no slag is formed, and the weld is of high quality.
Infinitely adjustable welding current parameters... When operating a welding inverter operating from a voltage of 140 volts, the current can be reduced to 10A, and metal samples can be welded with Ø1.6mm electrodes.
Improved arc performance... Thanks to constant monitoring, adjustment of the parameters of the welding arc, its performance has improved significantly.
The ability to weld workpieces from stainless steel, non-ferrous metals... When using special electrodes, inverters can weld copper and stainless steel parts. And with non-consumable electrodes, you can cook aluminum samples in a protective gas environment.
The use of electrodes of different types... Smooth adjustment of the operating parameters of the unit makes it possible to use electrodes of any type depending on the metal being welded. You can also change the polarity of the current.
Convenience, ease of use... Thanks to additional functions, for example, hot start, anti-sticking with the help of inverter equipment, even young inexperienced welders can perform work efficiently.

disadvantages

Complexity of construction... The use of semiconductor electronics for inverter equipment makes it less reliable.
High price... Compared to traditional transformer welding, inverters are much more expensive.
Susceptibility to construction dust... The tool is quite sensitive to construction dust and requires periodic cleaning during operation in dusty construction areas.
The need to monitor contact violations... Due to poor contacts, sparking occurs, which can form current surges uncontrolled by automation in the output circuits.
The negative influence of temperature fluctuations... It is not recommended to use an inverter welding machine immediately after sudden temperature changes. If the tool was in the winter in an unheated room and it was brought to a sufficiently warm room for welding work, then it should not be turned on for several hours, since there is a high probability of condensation. Therefore, before starting work, it is necessary to allow moisture to evaporate from the electronic boards of the equipment.

Outcome

Despite these minor drawbacks, with proper operation, compliance with safety rules, the tool has a rather long service life.

In order to choose the right equipment for performing welding, you need to know the structure and the principle of operation of the welding inverter. If you are well versed in such issues, you can not only effectively use, but also independently repair inverter devices.

Many models of inverters are offered on the modern market, which allows craftsmen to select equipment in accordance with their needs and financial capabilities. If you want to save money, you can make.

How does an inverter welding machine work

The principle of operation of an inverter device is in many ways similar to the operation of a switching power supply. In both the inverter and the switching power supply, energy is transformed in a similar way.

The process of converting electrical energy in an inverter-type welding machine can be described as follows.

An alternating current with a voltage of 220 volts, flowing in a conventional electrical network, is converted into direct current.
The received direct current with the help of a special unit is again converted into alternating current, but with a very high frequency.
The voltage of the high-frequency alternating current is reduced, which greatly increases its strength.
The generated electric current, which has a high frequency, significant strength and low voltage, is converted into direct current, on which welding is performed.

The main type of welding machines that were previously used were transformer devices that increased the welding current by reducing the voltage value. The most serious disadvantages of such equipment, which is actively used today, are low efficiency (since a large amount of consumed electrical energy is spent on heating iron), large dimensions and weight.

The invention of inverters, in which the strength of the welding current is regulated by a completely different principle, made it possible to significantly reduce the size of the welding machines, as well as reduce their weight. It becomes possible to effectively regulate the welding current in such machines due to its high frequency. The higher the frequency of the current generated by the inverter, the smaller the equipment dimensions can be.

One of the main tasks that any inverter solves is to increase the frequency of a standard electric current. Perhaps this is due to the use of transistors that switch at a frequency of 60-80 Hz. However, as you know, only direct current can be supplied to transistors, while in a conventional electrical network it is alternating and has a frequency of 50 Hz. To convert alternating current into direct current, a rectifier assembled on the basis of a diode bridge is installed in inverter devices.

After the transistor unit, in which an alternating current with a high frequency is generated, a transformer is located in it, which reduces the voltage and, accordingly, increases the current strength. To regulate the voltage and current, which have a high frequency, smaller transformers are required (while in terms of their power they are not inferior to their larger counterparts).

Elements of the electrical circuit of inverter devices

The welding inverter device consists of the following basic elements:

an AC rectifier supplied from a conventional electrical network;
an inverter unit based on high-frequency transistors (such a unit is a high-frequency pulse generator);
a transformer that lowers the high frequency voltage and increases the high frequency current;
high-frequency alternating current rectifier;
working shunt;
electronic unit responsible for controlling the inverter.

Whatever characteristics a certain model of an inverter device has, its principle of operation, based on the use of a high-frequency pulse converter, remains unchanged.

The rectifier and inverter units of the equipment get very hot during their operation, so they are installed on radiators that actively remove heat. In addition, to protect the rectifier unit from overheating, a special thermal sensor is used, which turns off its power supply when it reaches a temperature of 90 degrees.

The inverter unit, which is, in fact, a generator of high-frequency high-power pulses, is assembled on the basis of transistors connected in the "oblique bridge" type. High-frequency electrical impulses formed in such a generator are fed to a transformer, which is necessary in order to lower the value of their voltage.

The most common transformers used to equip welding inverters are devices with the following characteristics: primary winding - 100 turns of PEV wire (0.3 mm thick); 1st secondary winding - 15 turns of copper wire 1 mm in diameter; 2nd and 3rd secondary windings - 20 turns of copper wire with a diameter of 0.35 mm. All windings are carefully insulated from each other, and their exit points are protected and sealed.

A high frequency current is supplied to the output rectifier of the welding inverter. Simple diodes cannot cope with the conversion of such a current into a constant one. That is why the basis of the rectifier is made up of powerful diodes with a high speed of opening and closing. To prevent overheating of the diode unit, it is placed on a special radiator.

An essential element of any welding inverter is a high power resistor, which provides the device with a soft start. The need to use such a resistor is explained by the fact that when the power is turned on, a powerful electrical impulse is applied to the equipment, which can cause the diodes of the rectifier unit to fail. To prevent this from happening, current is fed through a resistor to the electrolytic capacitors, which begin to charge. When the capacitors reach full charge and the device goes into normal operation, the contacts of the electromagnetic relay are closed and the current begins to flow to the rectifier diodes, already bypassing the resistor.

Inverters, due to their technical characteristics, allow adjusting the welding current in a wide range - from 30 to 200 A.

The work of all elements of such a welding machine, which is distinguished by its compact dimensions, low weight and high power, is controlled by a special PWM controller. The electrical signals are fed to the controller from an operational amplifier powered by the output current of the inverter itself. Based on the characteristics of these signals, the controller generates correcting output signals that can be fed to the rectifier diodes and transistors of the inverter unit - the generator of high-frequency electrical pulses.

In addition to the main ones, modern welding inverters also have a whole list of useful additional options. Such characteristics, which greatly facilitate the work with the device and make it possible to obtain high-quality, reliable and beautiful welded joints, include forcing the welding arc (fast ignition), anti-sticking of the electrode, smooth adjustment of the welding current, and the presence of a protection system against arising overloads.

The feasibility of using inverters and their main disadvantages

The widespread use of welding inverters is explained by a number of significant advantages that they have.

Devices of this type are distinguished by high power and performance.
The weld seam formed using inverters is characterized by high quality and reliability.
Along with high power, devices of this type are compact in size and light in weight, which makes it easy to carry them to the place where welding will be performed.
Welding inverters have high efficiency (about 90%), the consumed electrical energy is used more efficiently in them than in transformers.
Due to their high efficiency, such devices are distinguished by economical consumption of consumed electricity.
In the process of welding with the help of an inverter, the molten metal is sprayed slightly, which is reflected in a more rational consumption of consumables.
Inverters provide the ability to smoothly adjust the welding current.
Due to the presence of additional options in such devices, the qualification level of the welder has almost no effect on the quality of work.
The wide versatility of inverters eliminates the question of which machine to choose for welding with different technologies.

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