FAQ
TL;DR: For DIY gates and 3 mm steel, budget inverters work; one user reports "100% at 163 A" and "have a solid switch" on the MAGNUM Snake 205D VRD. [Elektroda, Damiann193, post #17490997]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps first‑time buyers pick a reliable inverter welder, wire it safely, and avoid avoidable failures.
Quick Facts
- DEDRA DESi199BT: 100% duty at 125 A and 4‑year consumer warranty reported by a buyer. [Elektroda, przemoprzem, post #17489584]
- DESI201 uses MOSFETs; DESi199BT/DESI210BT use IGBTs, per workshop feedback. [Elektroda, Damiann193, post #16672178]
- Typical protection noted: “the welding machine requires 25A protection,” explaining buzzing on lighter breakers. [Elektroda, Damiann193, post #16681325]
- Known weak point: some DESI201 units needed new cable sockets and a burned switch replaced. [Elektroda, Damiann193, post #16670269]
- Old inductive electricity meters may audibly hum during inverter welding, as observed by a new owner. [Elektroda, rad25, post #16680865]
Which welder is best for 3 mm steel profiles and gate hinges?
Users reported good weld quality from both DEDRA DESI201 and MAGNUM Snake 205D VRD in hobby use. Cable sets felt thicker on the MAGNUM, aiding stability. For hinges and 3 mm profiles, either can suffice with correct rods and settings. “Welds … come out in good quality.” [Elektroda, Damiann193, post #16675773]
Is IGBT or MOSFET better for these small inverters?
A workshop user notes DEDRA DESI201 is MOSFET, while DESi199BT/DESI210BT and MAGNUM Snake 205D VRD use IGBT. He did not find IGBT inherently worse to repair; MOSFETs can be cheaper but may be used in greater count. Choose by build quality, not transistor type alone. [Elektroda, Damiann193, post #16672178]
What’s a real‑world duty‑cycle example I can trust?
A technician reports the MAGNUM Snake 205D VRD holds “100% at 163 A” and praises its solid power switch. Treat this as a practical benchmark for continuous work at moderate current. Verify on your unit’s plate. [Elektroda, Damiann193, post #17490997]
Does the DESi199BT really have a strong warranty and usable duty cycle?
One buyer chose DESi199BT citing a 4‑year consumer warranty and “100% 125A.” This combination appeals to DIY users wanting predictable uptime and support. Confirm terms with the seller before purchase. [Elektroda, przemoprzem, post #17489584]
Why do my breakers or meter buzz when I start welding?
A user with an old inductive meter heard loud humming while welding. Inverters draw pulsed current and can excite audible noise in older meters. Relocate the welder’s load if possible and inspect connections. [Elektroda, rad25, post #16680865]
What breaker size should I plan for on a 200 A‑class inverter?
One technician observed buzzing on lighter breakers and concluded “the welding machine requires 25A protection.” Smaller B16 breakers may chatter near their limit during striking. Use appropriately rated circuits. [Elektroda, Damiann193, post #16681325]
How do I reduce buzzing, heat, or nuisance trips during welding?
- Tighten the internal and external cable lugs; recheck after first sessions.
- Inspect the mains plug and extension; use a short, thick lead.
- Test on a circuit with adequate protection and clean contacts.
“You just have to screw in the wires well and check that they have not loosened.” [Elektroda, Damiann193, post #16675773]
Are the supplied cables and accessories decent on these units?
A hobbyist found MAGNUM’s mains and welding cables “definitely thicker and better quality” than on a comparable DEDRA. Better leads reduce voltage drop and heat, improving arc stability on thin profiles. [Elektroda, Damiann193, post #16675773]
What early failures have users actually seen on DEDRA DESI201?
One repaired DESI201 had a burned power switch and later needed replacement cable sockets due to overheating. Plan to inspect and, if needed, upgrade sockets and switch for longevity. [Elektroda, Damiann193, post #16670269]
Will DESI201 satisfy a beginner building a gate?
Two owners reported stable performance from DESI201 in amateur use. After simple repairs and socket replacements, they continued welding without complaints. It suits hobby projects when maintained. [Elektroda, Damiann193, post #16670269]
Is welding quality noticeably different between DEDRA DESI201 and MAGNUM Snake 205D VRD?
In back‑to‑back hobby use, the reviewer could not declare a clear welding difference. Both produced acceptable beads when set correctly. Cable and switch quality favored MAGNUM in that sample. [Elektroda, Damiann193, post #16675773]
Does an inverter outclass an old transformer welder for home projects?
A new DESI201 owner called the inverter “a great thing,” noting better usability than a transformer set. Expect easier starts and portability, but mind circuit protection and meter noise. [Elektroda, rad25, post #16680865]
Any buying tip if I’m torn between DEDRA models?
If warranty matters, one shopper prioritized DESi199BT for its reported 4‑year consumer warranty and solid 100% at 125 A claim. Use that as a tiebreaker after checking current offers. [Elektroda, przemoprzem, post #17489584]
Where can I find 350 A AC transformer ARC welders to EU standards?
Post your requirement to welding distributors and industrial suppliers, requesting CE‑marked 350 A AC MMA units with datasheets. State input voltage, duty cycle, and accessories needed. [Elektroda, zakir1481, post #20736082]
