Today’s guest post is by John Luck of Miller Electric:
Early welding power sources were relatively simple devices – a mass of laminated steel wrapped with copper and aluminum, designed to dissipate the heat. In the 1970’s squarewave technology was developed by Miller and incorporated into transformer-based welders. At the time, this technology offered drastic improvements for the TIG process. However, these machines still had limited dynamic capabilities.
Fast forward to today’s inverter power sources. Innovative inverter technology systems provide many benefits over machines with traditional welding technology. Miller TIG welders that utilize inverter technology provide increased productivity, improved quality, increased energy efficiency and greater portability.
Increased Productivity for TIG Welding
One important benefit that comes from a welder with inverter technology is the machine allows the operator to tailor the weld bead profile to make it only as wide as necessary. The ability to do this not only improves the appearance of the weld bead, but also provides a consistent quality in the weld.
This advancement helps to eliminate over-welding and rework that can occur with traditional TIG technology machines. With the removal of these non-value added steps, there is an increase in travel speed and productivity. There is also a reduction in heat input and consumption of filler metal.
Improved Weld Quality for TIG Welding
With inverter technology arc starts are regulated to the exact amperage and time needed to light the arc without damaging the base material. The operator can fine-tune the output characteristics according to specific base metal conditions and achieve greater results. This cutting edge technology leads to fewer weld failures and less weld rework and waste material. Miller TIG welders also offer digital-precise controls which provide higher performance and improved accuracy and repeatability compared to traditional technology.
Energy Efficient TIG Welding
Energy efficiency is simply the process of doing more with less. Reducing energy use cuts energy costs and results in financial savings. Welders with inverter technology draw less power than traditional welders, making them more power efficient and less expensive to install and operate.
For business owners, the power efficiency of the Miller Dynasty and Maxstar series provides the flexibility to add machines and work stations on existing power without requiring expansion or building in more power. For home hobbyists, the Miller Diversion series can be used in garages or shops without the need for costly wiring required to run older transformer based machines with their high amperage draw.
Increased Portability for TIG Welding
Systems with inverter technology are smaller and lighter in comparison to transformer machines that can be 3-4 times heavier. This increased portability means that they can easily be taken to the job site, race track, a friend’s shop or wherever your need for TIG welding takes you.
Invert the Equation – Rethink Your Approach to TIG Welding
Conversion to Miller’s innovative TIG technology provides numerous improvements. Implementing smaller, more efficient welding power sources increases productivity and weld quality, while offering space and energy cost savings that are not possible with traditional systems.
If you’re still using traditional equipment, it’s time to experience the benefits of Miller’s inverter innovations.
Learn more about Miller Electric’s TIG Welders at Baker’s Gas and Welding.
About Today’s Guest Blogger, John Luck
Product Manager, Tig Solutions
Miller Electric Mfg. Co. An ITW Company
John Luck has been in the welding industry for the past 20 years. In addition to his current role as Product Manager of Miller’s TIG Solutions, he has also held the Product Management responsibility for Miller’s Industrial Engine Drives. John started his career at Miller in 1992 as a Welding Engineer in the Tech Sales Department.
