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TIG Welding with Inverters vs Transformers

TIG Welding with Inverters vs Transformers

A question we often get is "I have an inverter (or transformer) unit, which tungsten should I use?"

The update to our electrode selection chart below should answer that at a glance. The selection of a power source is determined primarily by the metal type and its thickness. Other considerations should be machine size and portability (inverters being smaller/lighter) and energy-efficiency (inverters draw less power). Send us an email if you have questions.

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TIG Welding Tungsten Electrode Selection Chart
Type AC/DC Inverter and/or Transformer Recommended Usage
2% Thoriated (Red) DC Inverter & Transformer Copper alloys, nickel alloys, titanium alloys, and non-corrosive steels BUY NOW
2% Lanthanated (Blue) AC & DC Inverter & Transformer Aluminum alloys, magnesium alloys, nickel alloys, copper alloys, titanium alloys, low-alloyed steels, and non-corrosive steels BUY NOW
Pure Tungsten (Green) AC Transformer Magnesium alloys and aluminum alloys BUY NOW
2% Ceriated (Grey) AC & DC Inverter & Transformer Titanium alloys, copper alloys, magnesium alloys, aluminum alloys, nickel alloys, non-corrosive steels, and low-alloyed steels BUY NOW
1.5% Lanthanated (Gold) AC & DC Inverter & Transformer Titanium alloys, copper alloys, nickel alloys, and non-corrosive steels BUY NOW
Rare Earth Blend (Purple) AC & DC Inverter & Transformer Aluminum alloys, magnesium alloys, titanium alloys, nickel alloys, copper alloys, low-alloyed steels, and non-corrosive steels BUY NOW
0.8% Zirconiated (White) AC Inverter & Transformer Handles higher amp levels for magnesium alloys and aluminum alloys BUY NOW