VARIMAT V2 vs. UNIROOF AT vs. TRIAC DRIVE: Which tool is right for me?

​Together the VARIMAT V2, UNIROOF AT, and TRIAC DRIVE comprise Leister’s line of automatic welders for thermoplastic roofing materials such as TPO, PVC, etc. There are some key difference between these tools which make each suited to particular jobs on the roof. 

Pictured above but not discussed: The BITUMAT B2 automatic welder for modified bitumen. ​

The VARIMAT V2 is a large, fast machine; it is best suited to large, flat roofs and straight seams. It has closed-loop temperature control which compensates for changes in environmental conditions or small voltage fluctuations to ensure the output temperature remains constant. Parameters are set with Leister’s unique e-Drive systems and can be saved for easy recall between sessions.

​The UNIROOF AT is smaller and lighter than the VARIMAT V2 and welds at approximately half the speed. Its lighter weight, coupled with its strong motor, allow the UNIROOF AT to tackle steeper slopes than the VARIMAT V2. Its smaller size makes it well suited to small roofs, detail work, or tight areas. Like the VARIMAT V2, the UNIROOF AT has closed-loop temperature control and a digital display. 

The TRIAC DRIVE is a semi-automatic tool unlike the VARIMAT V2 and UNIROOF AT which are fully automatic machines. It is composed of two separate pieces of equipment: a TRIAC hand tool and a DRIVE unit. The DRIVE unit propels the tool and includes a roller to compress the seam. The operator must apply constant downward pressure and guide the tool manually to ensure a straight seam that is bonded tightly. The TRIAC DRIVE is the slowest of these three machines but is faster than manually welding with only a TRIAC hand tool.  The TRIAC Drive is excellent for tight spaces and situations where welds are on slope or even a vertical surface.
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For more help choosing the correct tool for your job contact your Technical Sales Representative.

Originally published: 03/04/2015