Welding Tips and Tricks

How often do you guys need more than 200 amps when you are TIG welding? I haven't run into it yet, but i continue to see screaming deals on older used transformer TIGs that would get me to 310-315A max. Thoughts?

Watch the input power. Unless you are looking at the XMT line you will need most likely 100A of 240VAC or three phase power to run those machines. I will agree. Seen the XMT for less tban $1K. But, it is DC only.

The input power is not a problem, I can add a subpanel to the garage. Most of the older transformer machines need around 100A-125A wide open. The extra current would be for aluminum, so the XMT wouldn't work. I was thinking a syncrowave or lincoln squarewave. I also saw an Esab heliarc with a cooler for a good price, but i waited too long to grab it. I already have a 200A inverter (HTP Invertig 201) that I love, but i am not sure if i will need more than the 200A max when doing some thicker aluminum. This is just a hobby, so trying to justify the cost of a larger machine. (Like we need an excuse to buy more tools!). I just wanted others experience with running into needing more machine for welding at home.

You can extend the thickness range on aluminum through the use of a helium / argon mix without needing more power. See a recent video from Jody http://www.weldingtipsandtricks.com/alu ... elder.html

Thurmond