WIA (Welding Industries of Australia) has launched a new range of lightweight, portable welders designed to deliver heavyweight performance in professional or DIY applications.

One of Australia’s leading welding supply companies, WIA has released the impressive Weldarc 180i DC stick and DC TIG welding machines for professional as well as serious DIY users. Weighing just 6.5kg, the lightweight and compact 180 Amp machine delivers both portability and performance required for onsite and field maintenance applications.

The TIG welding mode features Lift Arc starting, which allows the arc to slowly build up, eliminating the need for scratch starting or the possibility of tungsten electrode damage and workpiece contamination.

WIA’s Weldarc 180i welders can be used with long extension leads often found in the Australian workplace, and will keep welding successfully despite a voltage drop, unlike conventional portable welding machines on the market.

Key features of Weldarc 180i DC stick and DC TIG welding machines include built-in Arc Force constantly monitoring arc voltage and boosting output during low arc voltage; optimised and tested for compatibility with appropriate portable generators; Hot Start feature offering the welder even better arc starting when in manual arc mode; ability to use Cellulose electrodes with ease, otherwise difficult on smaller welders; and built-in VRD delivering added safety when operating in stick or lift-TIG mode and meeting the requirements of site work to AS1674.2 CAT C.

Fully compliant with Australian Standards AS 60974.1, WIA’s Weldarc 180i assures operator safety with the power source featuring a built-in thermal protection device that activates if the machine is operated beyond its safe thermal operating zone.

The lightweight Weldarc 180i portable welding machines work with 2.0-4.0mm electrodes operating from a 15A 240Vac supply. Weldarc 180i welders are recommended for use in a wide range of industries including mine and manufacturing maintenance, building and construction industries, food and wine sectors, contractors and rural workshops through to the DIY enthusiast.

Weldarc 180i welding machines are backed by a 2-year unlimited warranty on the power source covering parts and labour, and supported by an Australia-wide service network as standard, providing customers the assurance of reliability and performance.

The package includes a heavy duty work clamp, an industrial twist lock electrode holder and a carry case with a padded shoulder strap.