ARCCAPTAIN 160A Stick Welder: features, specs and who it suits

The ARCCAPTAIN 160A is a compact inverter stick welder that runs on either 110V or 220V power. It is aimed at beginners and experienced welders alike, with a digital display, automatic settings and a lift TIG mode. At 5.84 lb it is small enough to carry to a farm gate, a garage or a repair job away from the workshop.

Stick welding in brief

Stick welding, or MMA (manual metal arc), melts a coated electrode rod to join pieces of metal. The coating shields the weld as it forms. It is widely used for outdoor maintenance and repair because it tolerates wind and less than perfect surfaces better than some other processes. ARCCAPTAIN says the welder performs well on 6011, 6013 and 7018 rods and handles stainless steel, mild steel and other metals.

IGBT inverter technology

Older transformer welders are heavy. An IGBT inverter converts and controls the current electronically, which is what allows the unit to be this light and to hold a stable arc. ARCCAPTAIN adds that a built-in MCU (microcontroller) digitally controls the welding process for arc stability.

Synergic control and the LED display

Synergic control means the welder sets suitable current and voltage once you pick the electrode diameter. This helps newer welders, who do not need to guess settings, and you can still adjust the current by hand. The large LED display is designed to be readable without lifting your helmet. The brand warns not to power it on until the screen turns off and the fan has stopped.

Hot start, arc force and anti-stick

• Hot start gives a brief boost of current to help strike the arc.
• Arc force adds current when the arc gets short, which helps keep it from stalling.
• Anti-stick reduces current if the electrode freezes to the work so it can be freed.

ARCCAPTAIN says hot start and arc force are adjustable.

Lift TIG mode

The 2-in-1 design adds lift TIG mode, where the tungsten electrode is touched to the work and lifted to start the arc. The listing states that the TIG torch is not included, so you would need to supply one, along with suitable shielding gas equipment.

Portability and protection

The welder comes with a handle and a shoulder strap. ARCCAPTAIN lists overcurrent, overvoltage, overload and overheating protection, says it has passed TÜV and ANSI standards testing, and gives a two-year quality support period.

Who it suits

It suits home DIYers, hobbyists, farm and garage maintenance, and craft projects. Welding carries real hazards, including arc radiation, fumes, burns and fire, so use the right helmet, gloves, ventilation and clothing, and follow the manual and local codes.

What to check before you buy

• Power supply: confirm your outlet and circuit can handle the draw at the voltage you plan to use.
• Material thickness: check the manual for the thickness each rod size can weld.
• Rods and accessories: you need electrodes, an electrode holder setup, a helmet and gloves, and a TIG torch for lift TIG.
• Duty cycle: welders must cool after use; check the manual's duty cycle.
• Workspace: weld in a ventilated area clear of flammable materials.

The short version

• A portable 160A IGBT inverter stick welder for 110V and 220V power.
• Synergic control, large LED display, adjustable hot start and arc force.
• Lift TIG mode, but the torch is not included.
• 5.84 lb with handle and shoulder strap.
• Lists multiple protections, TÜV and ANSI testing and two-year support.

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