Welding Machine Buying Guide | MIG, TIG & ARC Welders Explained

Welding Machine Buying Guide | MIG, TIG & ARC Welders Explained

Posted by Hyundai Power Products on 2nd Mar 2025

Welding Machine Buying Guide | MIG, TIG & ARC Welders Explained

By Hyundai Power Products

Selecting the right welder is crucial for achieving optimal results in your welding projects. Hyundai Power Products offers a diverse range of inverter welders designed to meet various needs, from DIY to professional use. This Hyundai Welder Buying Guide will help you understand the different welding processes and highlight key features of the Hyundai models to assist you in making an informed decision.

Welder Buying Guide

Understanding Welding Processes

Manual Metal Arc (MMA) Welding:

Also known as stick welding, MMA is a manual process that uses a consumable electrode coated with flux. It's versatile and suitable for outdoor work and thicker materials. MMA welding is ideal for general repairs and maintenance.

Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) Welding:

TIG welding employs a non-consumable tungsten electrode to produce the weld. It offers precision and is suitable for thinner materials, providing a clean finish. This process is ideal for automotive work and projects requiring high-quality welds.

Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) Welding:

MIG welding uses a consumable wire electrode and is known for its speed and ease of use. It's suitable for both thin and thick materials and is commonly used in fabrication and automotive industries.

Welding Types
Hyundai Power Products offers a wide range of welders to suit every need and budget. They even have handy compressor kits that bundle everything you need for specific tasks, like painting or tire inflation.


Key Considerations When Choosing a Hyundai Welder

Key Considerations When Choosing a Hyundai Welder

Material Thickness:

Ensure the welder's amperage range matches the thickness of the materials you'll be working with.

Portability:

Ensure the welder's amperage range matches the thickness of the materials you'll be working with.

Duty Cycle:

Ensure the welder's amperage range matches the thickness of the materials you'll be working with.

Power Supply:

Ensure the welder's amperage range matches the thickness of the materials you'll be working with.

How to choose a Hyundai Inverter Welder

Hyundai's inverter welders are designed for durability and versatility, making them suitable for home, garage, and workshop use. They are ideal for both automotive and general repairs in domestic, commercial, and industrial settings. All models come with a 2-year warranty for peace of mind.

Featured Models

  • Type: MMA/ARC

  • Amperage Range: 20-200A

  • Duty Cycle: 60% at 200A

  • Weight: 9.8kg - Lightweight design for portability

  • Features: Stepless regulator for precise control, thermal overload protection

£
259.99
 
£
Hyundai 200A MMA / ARC Inverter Welder Single Phase 230V | HYMMA200P

Hyundai 160A TIG/MMA/ARC Inverter Welder (HYTIG160)

    • Type: TIG/MMA/ARC

    • Amperage Range: 20-160A

    • Duty Cycle: 60% at 160A

    • Weight: 12kg

    • Features: High-frequency starts for smooth arc strikes, includes accessories like TIG torch and electrode holder

£
279.99
 
£
Hyundai 160A TIG / MMA / ARC Inverter Welder Single Phase 230V | HYTIG160

    • Type: MIG

    • Amperage Range: 20-200A

    • Duty Cycle: 60% at 200A

    • Weight: 48kg

    • Features: Adjustable wire feed speed, thermal overload protection

£
749.99
 
£
Hyundai 200A MIG / Welder Single Phase Pro series 230V | HYMIG-200I

  • Type: TIG MMA / ARC

  • Amperage Range: 20-200A

  • Duty Cycle: 60% at 200A

  • Weight: 12kg

  • Features: Adjustable wire feed speed, thermal overload protection

£
399.99
 
£
Hyundai 200A TIG MMA / ARC Inverter Welder Single Phase 230V | HYTIG200

  • Type: MIG

  • Amperage Range: 20-200A

  • Duty Cycle: 60% at 200A

  • Weight: 61.75kg

  • Features: Adjustable wire feed speed, thermal overload protection

£
989.00
 
£
Hyundai 3.2kW / 4kVa Petrol Welder Generator, 120 Amp DC Welder | HYW130DC
We hope you’ve found these tips helpful and remember: if you need any further advice, our team of experts is on-hand to help you, so just get in touch! If you need expert advice or for any questions you may have, you can give us a call on 01646 687880, fill out the contact form here or drop us a message on any of our social media pages - Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

Related Article

Welder Buying FAQs

What type of welder should I choose – MIG, TIG, or MMA?

The best welder for you depends on your specific welding needs:

  • MIG Welders: Best for speed and ease of use, suitable for both thin and thick materials. Ideal for automotive and fabrication work.
  • TIG Welders: Provide precision and clean welds, great for thinner metals and professional finishes. Ideal for stainless steel and aluminum.
  • MMA (ARC) Welders: Versatile and perfect for outdoor use and thicker materials, making them great for general repairs and maintenance.

What power supply do I need for my welder?

Most home and workshop welders operate on 230V single-phase power, which is suitable for general use. For industrial or high-amperage welding, a 415V three-phase power supply may be required. Always check your welder’s specifications before purchase.

What is the duty cycle, and why does it matter?

The duty cycle refers to how long a welder can operate at a specific amperage within a 10-minute period before needing to cool down. For example, a 60% duty cycle at 160A means you can weld for 6 minutes, then allow 4 minutes for cooling.

Why It Matters:

  • Helps you choose the right welder for the length and intensity of your tasks
  • Higher duty cycles are better for prolonged welding jobs
  • Duty cycle is rated at 25°C—higher temps may shorten it

Can I weld aluminum with my welder?

Yes, you can weld aluminum, but the right equipment is key:

  • TIG Welders: Best suited for aluminum due to their control and precision
  • MIG Welders: Can weld aluminum with the help of a spool gun and the correct wire
  • Ensure your welder supports aluminum before purchase

What safety equipment do I need to consider when welding?

Welding involves high heat, UV light, and fumes. Proper safety gear is essential:

  • Auto-darkening welding helmet to protect your eyes
  • Welding gloves to prevent burns
  • Flame-resistant clothing to shield from sparks
  • Respirator or proper ventilation for fume protection, especially indoors

Need help choosing? Explore our full range at Hyundai Power Equipment.

What is ARC in Inverter Welders?

ARC refers to Manual Metal Arc (MMA) welding, also known as stick welding. It creates an electric arc between a coated electrode and the metal workpiece, melting the electrode to form a strong weld joint.

Why Use an ARC Inverter Welder?

  • Portability: Inverter technology makes these welders lighter and more efficient
  • Versatility: Can weld steel, cast iron, and stainless steel
  • Outdoor Friendly: Less affected by wind than MIG or TIG welding
  • Ideal for Heavy-Duty Tasks: Perfect for thick materials and strong joints

Check out our full range of MMA/ARC Inverter Welders here.