Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Off topic, inverters / rectifiers

John;

Both MIG and TIG welders use a rectifier bridge for converting AC to DC.
Both are available in the inverter configuration. One purpose of the
inverter is to eliminate the huge transformer normally required for welding
applications. Eventually (IMHO) all welders will be of the inverter type
because the electronics will become cheaper, whereas big transformers are
pretty much a fixed cost.

The functional difference between MIG and TIG has more to do with regulation
methods. MIG welders need fairly stable voltage and are thus known as
constant voltage (CV) machines. TIG, like stick welding, requires constant
current (CC). Both are attainable within one machine and some newer units
have this capability. The inverter configuration makes this very easy to
do. Top quality universal welding machines have dropped in price in the
last few years because of this.

Doug