Tig Welder - buying advice.

[Dom]

Considering treating myself to a TIG. £500 - £1000 budget. Would prefer nearer the cheaper end but would pay more if it's worth doing so.

Any suggestions on what brands and features to look out for ?

[Kenny]

Hi Dom,

I would recommend the R-tech range of tig's, i have been using them for years and have suggested to various people and they recommend to anyone also

If you serious about getting the best weld possible and gas coverage look into a aftermarket CK9 torch with gas lense by CK worldwide via www.rapidwelding.co.uk

https://www.r-techwelding.co.uk/weld...nt/tig-welder/

Regards
Kenny

[Dom]

|Thanks Kenny. Is R-Tech rebranding machines that come out of the same factory as the stahlwerk machines? They look somewhat similar.

[typhoon_driver]

The R-tech stuff is very nice. Although I got a cheap chinese tig for around £500 off ebay a few years back and it has done me fine. I don't use it often so don't need a fancy machine. It does stick as well which is handy.

[Dom]

I think my local steel stockholder is a Jasic Dealer, and I also know a local Kemppi / Thermadyne shop. I'm wondering if its better to stick with local suppliers for the sake of servicing. I had a right ball ache when I had to send a faulty plasma cutter back to Germany after purchasing online.

[supernova]

If you really want a TIG, keep an eye out on ebay for bargains.

I bought a Kemppi Kempotig AC/DC 250A for £250 last year. Its a big water cooled machine that was set up for 3 phase but easily converted to single phase. It came with more than £250 worth of welding rods and regulator.

Think a Mig would do for most RW applications unless you want to weld aluminium.

[typhoon_driver]

Gumtree would be another shout for a second hand machine.

From what little experience I have with R-tech I'd suspect they would sort you out sharpish if there was an issue with a machine on delivery but this isn't speaking from ordering from them myself.

How much do you think you will be using the machine?

[Dom]

It'll be used for occasional projects but I want something that'll last. I've had my MIG for over 15yrs and it's still going strong.