Semi-automatic welding machines for MIG/MAG welding

One of the basic welding devices used in the MIG/MAG welding method is a semi-automatic welding machine. This is the most common welding method on the market. This means that welding can take place in a shield of chemically inert gases (e.g. argon, helium) or active gases (e.g. CO2). The filler metal, i.e. the welding wire, must be placed in the device's feeder and by pressing the trigger in the welding handle, it is automatically fed through the contact tip and the arc can be ignited. Feeders can be divided into 2-roller and 4-roller feeders. The latter are better suited for welding aluminum alloys due to the fact that the aluminum wire is flexible and requires stable feeding, which is possible thanks to the 4-roll feeder.

Power and power supply for semi-automatic welding machines for MIG/MAG welding

Another criterion for selecting a semi-automatic welding machine is the power of the device and power supply. Devices up to 200A are usually connected to a 230V network, which greatly facilitates their use in almost any place and allows welding of elements with a thickness of about 6 mm. Welding machines above 250A require connection to a three-phase 400V network. If we intend to weld thick elements with high currents (10 mm and more), we should purchase a semi-automatic welding machine equipped with a cooler. Thanks to this, our welding torch will be cooled by liquid and there will be no need to replace it as frequently as in the case of gas-cooled torches.

Duty cycle of semi-automatic welding machines

An important parameter to consider when choosing a semi-automatic welding machine is the duty cycle. This term determines the efficiency of the device during welding for a period of 10 minutes, e.g. a semi-automatic welding machine has a power of 250A and a duty cycle of 60% - this means that the device can weld with a current of 250A for 6 minutes. After this time, the migomat should rest for 4 minutes and then the welding process can be started again. It is also worth remembering that from 2020, transformer devices are to be withdrawn from production due to the fact that the power consumption from the network is much higher than in the case of inverter welders. Inverter power sources have a higher duty cycle. We will be happy to answer any questions and advise you in choosing the most optimal semi-automatic welding machine for your needs. Please contact the staff of the Weldcut welding store.