There are so many types of welding, it can be daunting to purchase new tools for each job. Multiprocess welding can be your best friend in the shop. Multiprocess welding can be thought of as a one-stop shop for all types of welding. It allows you to do everything, such as plasma cutting and MIG without having to start up another tool.
This guide will introduce you to some of the most popular multiprocess welders on the market and tell you what to look out for when searching for the best tool.
Top 5 Choices For The Best Multiprocess Welder
Forney 324 Multi-Process Welder
For welders who don’t want to have a heavy machine that takes up space or is difficult to move around their workshop, the Forney 324 Multiprocess Welder is a compact and lightweight choice. This welder is lighter than most, but it can do all types of welding, including TIG, MIG, and stick. It also supports flux-cored welding.
This machine is ideal for light welding tasks, since it has a limited 190-amp output. This is lower than other comparable tools. To meet your job requirements, you can add wires of different diameters to the machine. You can also spool between 4 and 20 cm.
Things we love:
- To prevent any additional costs, a gas hose is included
- For greater welding capabilities, you can switch between DC+ and DC-polarities
- Transformers come with a 5-year warranty and all other parts are covered by a 3-year warranty
- This machine weighs only 20kg, making it much easier to transport than other similar machines
Things we don’t like:
- Instead of being in the front, the on/off switch can be found in the back.
Everlast PowerMTS211Si
The Everlast PowerMTS 211Si is a great choice if you are looking for a reliable, all-in-one welder that covers most types of welding.
It weighs in at 25 kg and is durable enough, but not too heavy to make it difficult to transport. You can use the welder for TIG, MIG and stick welding. If you have the right attachments, flux-cored welding is possible. The Everlast welder can save up to nine programs so you can quickly access your most-used settings.
Everlast’s most recent update included a high frequency start process for TIG welding. This is a major advantage over similar welder options. The process is completely touchless so contamination is less likely, leaving behind a perfect weld.
Things we love:
- The foot pedal connects to the front panel and allows for TIG welding.
- All controls can be accessed on the front panel, including the on/off switch.
- The Everlast PowerMTS 211Si’s synergic ability allows it to quickly set up its processes based upon the information you provide, such as the wire type.
- High-frequency, touchless TIG starting process provides a high quality weld.
Things we don’t like:
- This welder can only be operated on DC power. It is not suitable for use with a TIG welding on aluminum.
- The Everlast welding machine is not the easiest to set-up, due to its lack of power setting charts or detailed user manuals.
ESAB Rebel EMP 215ic
The ESAB Rebel EMP 215ic welder is the only one on the market that includes a smart MIG (sMIG), process to track how each user welds. To ensure the best possible welding results, the welder monitors the user’s welding patterns to ensure that its MIG arc is strong and steady.
With a very short learning curve, this welder is able to complete all types of welding projects, including TIG, stick, flux-cored, MIG, and TIG. The sMIG system allows welders of all levels to achieve consistent results. The front display simplifies setup and allows you to easily monitor the welding process as you go.
Things we love:
- The welder comes with several accessories, such as a TIG torch or earth clamp.
- Beginning welders can use sMIG to help them become more consistent with their techniques
- The purchase is covered by a 3-year warranty for handling and care
- For portability, ultra-lightweight body (18kg)
- The 5-handle roll cage protects the welder from drops and is easy to transport from any angle.
Things we don’t like:
- The ESAB Rebel EMP 215ic only has a 25% duty cycle at 230V for MIG welding. This means that it will require several minutes of rest after only a few minutes of welding to prevent overheating.
Weldpro Multi-Process Welder
The Weldpro Multi-Process Welder can be used as an entry-level machine. It is affordable and easy to use. The cost of this multiprocess welder is much lower than other models, but it still provides TIG, MIG and flux-cored welding.
The welder can adjust to 220V for welding techniques. However, the duty cycle drops significantly for more powerful tasks. It is also lightweight at only 14 kg. This makes it easy to transport and put wherever you need it.
Things we love:
- It is extremely affordable compared to other welders making it an affordable option for beginners
- For easy access, controls, display and ports are located at the front.
- It has built-in protection against overload and overheating, and indicators on the front panel when they occur
Things we don’t like:
- It has a low duty cycle of 30% at 200V, so it will not be able handle large jobs for very long.
- The welder does not have arc TIG welding capabilities. If you want to weld aluminum, you will need a spool gun.
Hitbox MIG200 Welding Machine
The Hitbox MIG200 welding machine is small and lightweight, yet it is powerful. Hitbox can produce up to 220V for high-power jobs like TIG welding, unlike smaller machines which typically only run at 200 V. The tool also offers MIG, stick and flux-cored welding.
Inverter technology is used to increase efficiency, control and reduce power consumption. The inverter system prevents overloading and overheating. However, the Hitbox MIG200 will notify you via a front panel indicator that the machine will automatically turn off if these dangers occur.
Things we love:
- Hitbox can be run on electric power, or a generator if you aren’t near a power source.
- The machine’s top handle makes it easy to transport
- 1-year warranty for your purchase
Things we don’t like:
- This welder is unable to deliver 220 V +/-10 %. It won’t be able to meet the requirements of light-duty jobs.
What Is The Difference Between A Regular Welder And A Multiprocess Welder?
Regular welding tools can be used to meet a specific welding requirement, such as TIG. Multiprocess welding is a tool that combines multiple types of welding, rather than traditional tools that focus on one type of welding.
Multiprocess welders allow you to work in multiple ways and without having to switch tools. You can save both time and money by not having to buy multiple welding tools that take up space. Multiprocess welding combines cutting and welding tools in one machine. This allows you to quickly switch between different types of welding for greater efficiency and ease while you are working.
Multiprocess Welders: Challenges
Multiprocess welders can prove to be a very useful tool for welders who need to switch between different types of cutters and welders during their workday. This tool may not be suitable for all welders.
Multiprocess welders are generally more expensive than traditional welders because they combine multiple tools into one. A multiprocess welder will require a larger upfront investment than one tool for MIG welding.
These machines have a disadvantage in that it takes some time to switch between tasks. Multiprocess welding is not a quick and easy way to switch between different types of welding. This tool can be difficult to use properly.
Finally, relying too heavily on one device might lead to you relying too heavily on it. You will need to stop working if your welder suddenly shuts down or becomes inoperable.
Traditional welding tools can be used temporarily to do the job while you replace one. Backup multiprocess welders can be expensive.
Types Of Welding Included In Multiprocess Welders
Multiprocess welders can switch between two to three different welding methods. The best multiprocess welders have four or more types of welding. These tools can be used for cutting and welding.
- MIIG: MIIG is an acronym for Metal Inert Gas Welding. A welding gun uses a shielding agent to melt steel wire. This creates two pieces of metal.
- TIG is TIG stands for Tungsten Inert Gas welding. It uses a tungsten-electrode to weld metal pieces together with great precision. This type of welding is known to be the most time-consuming.
- Stick: stick welding, also known as Shielded Metal Arc Welding or SMAW, is the most common type of welding that most people learn. Stick welding uses an electrode to create an electric arc that melts and joins two pieces of metal.
- Fluxcored: flux-cored welding does not use any external gas unlike other forms. It forms its own gas using a self-shielding method that uses a consumable electrode with a flux to generate heat and weld.
- Plasma Cutting: Plasma cutting uses plasma to cut through different metals. This is sometimes required for welding. This handy tool is included in some multiprocess welders.
This video will show you the three most popular types of welding MIG and TIG in action. It will help you to better understand their differences.
How A Multiprocess Welder Works
A multiprocessor welding tool will require some learning if you are only comfortable with one-process welding tools.
These tools are designed by manufacturers to be easy-to-use and efficient. Once you learn how to use them, you will save a lot of time in your workshop.
Multiprocess welders use electricity to generate heat current. This function works regardless of what type of welding you do. Depending on the welding technique, you may have to switch heating elements.
TIG will, for instance, require a tungsten-electrode, while MIG will require that you change the tungsten electrode to steel wire.
The process of operating a welding machine is usually straightforward. Many machines have controls or dials on the front that allow you to select the type of welding you want, and also provide accessory ports for attaching a foot pedal, gun, or any other accessory.
FAQ
Q: What’s a multiprocess welding machine?
A: Multiprocess welding is a machine that can do multiple types of weld tasks, including TIG, MIG and plasma. Multiprocess welding is similar to several tools in one. This makes it easy for welders who do multiple types of welding throughout the day to work together without having to switch between tools.
Q: Is multi-process welding worth it?
A: Multiprocess welding is more expensive than a tool that does only one job, such as ARC welding. These welders can handle multiple welding tasks and allow you to use only one tool, rather than switching between them. Multiprocess welding is a cost-effective option if you do multiple types of welding at once or over the course of the day.
Q: What should you look for in a multi-process welder that is the best?
A: The best multi-process welder may look different for everyone depending on what type of welding you do. It is important to know what type of welding you do and whether the tool is capable of working with it. These tools will usually include MIG welding, but there are often two to three other types of welding.
It is important to find a welder with a simple setup so it can be used when you need it. Multiprocess welders can be difficult to use. Make sure you have clear instructions and simple controls so you can focus on your work, not operating the tool.
Q: What is the duty period?
A: It is possible that a manufacturer might mention a duty cycle within a description of a multiprocess welding machine. The duty cycle is the time a welder can work and rest for each 10 minute period.
A 40% duty cycle at 220 V is equivalent to the tool being able to work for 4 minutes, then needing to rest for 6 minutes. Conversely, a 20% duty cycle at the same voltage allows the tool only 2 minutes of work with an 8-minute break. A welder capable of operating at 40% voltage can handle more demanding welding jobs than a welder who can only operate at 20%.
Take A Bow
If you are a frequent user of multiple welding techniques, the Forney 324 Multiprocess Welder is my favorite multiprocess welder. This machine will do all the work for you, so no need to buy multiple tools to perform MIG, TIG and stick welding. Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to transport around the office.
The Forney machine might be too difficult to use if you are new to welding, or to this type of multi-purpose welder. The Weldpro Multiprocess Welder might be a better choice. This machine is ideal for beginners who are looking for a machine that is affordable and easy to use.
These are five great choices for all-in-one welders. However, you will need to decide which machine is right for you and your welding needs. When comparing these top picks, be sure to consider price, warranty, welding types, portability, and portability to determine which one is best for you. Are you searching for the best spot welding equipment? You might be interested in our guide, The Best Spot Welder Buyers Guide.
