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Re: mig welders

To: triumphs@Autox.Team.Net
Subject: Re: mig welders
From: AMfoto1@aol.com
Date: Tue, 7 Dec 2004 06:31:56 EST
Hi Frank, 

I've been considering a MIG welder too, and have been gathering info for a 
while. What I've learned is similar to the other response you got already: flux 
core is generally not as neat as gas shielded welding. Flux core is primarily 
intended for outdoor use, when a breeze will blow away the gas. But, it will 
tend to spatter more. Most of the time I plan to use gas rather than flux core. 
It is nice to have a choice, though. 

Yes, the high voltage models are more capable in some respects, but how often 
will you really need to weld over 1/4" thick materials? Many 230V models only 
allow 5/16 material, anyway. 220/230V models often do have a higher duty 
cycle rating. You are lucky to have a 220/230V outlet available. But, how often 
is 
that the case? If you ever take the welder somewhere else to do a small job, 
will 220/230V be likely to be available? Also, it's possible to "split" a 
110/115V line off a 220/230V receptacle. I've got a short, homemade splitter I 
used many years ago on construction sites, but I don't recall how I put it 
together. 

I'm looking at the Hobart line of 115V units, probably the Handler 140. (The 
Handler 180 is 22/230V) These are made by Miller Electric, I believe, which is 
a well respected line, but generally more expensive. Asking around, I've 
heard a lot of good reports on Hobart models. More info at 
www.hobartwelders.com , 
especially check out "Welding 101". There is also a lot of info at 
www.millerwelds.com 

Have you done other types of welding? I use an oxy/acetylene outfit a lot. 
And, I've used a stick welder occasionally. I understand MIG is easier to use 
than gas. The auto feed has got to be a big convenience, compared to stick 
welding. And, it's a lot faster than TIG, although the latter can handle a 
wider 
variety of materials and makes super neat welds. 

One key consideration is "duty cycle". This varies depending upon the power 
setting, may be only 20 or 30% at top power setting with some units. That means 
that you can weld for 2 or 3 minutes out of every ten, for all practical 
purposes. 

Hope Santa brings you what you want! 

Alan Myers
San Jose, Calif.

AMfoto1@aol.com
http://hometown.aol.com/amfoto1/amfoto1.htm
Date: Mon, 6 Dec 2004 17:55:54 EST
From: FGFO1@aol.com
Subject: mig welders

Hi guys
well as Christmas approaches IM looking for my present. And the one thing 
that IM thinking of asking Santa for is a MIG welder.




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