Running a welder on a generator for field use?

[STx]

I think inverter type welders are going to be a little pickier about how clean their power is, I've only used the transformer type on generators. The more electronics you add, the more the dirty power of a generator will effect them.

 

[Teachu2]

When I started needing a portable setup, I bought a 5kw generator at Costco and a Hobart Handler135 Mig setup (110V wire feed). Worked fine for up to 3/8" thick steel, and paid for itself quickly. I now run a Bobcat250 welder/generator. and run my Miller MM210 off it as needed.

 

[dntfxr]

I appreciate the feedback folks. I think I may go with a MM211, seems like from what I've read people are really happy with them. The little Everlast stick units may be a good option too especially for the money. Maybe I'll get both!

 

[Big Barn]

Maybe I'll get both!

Good plan. I like the way you think. Terry

 

[ModMech]

Must be Sears equivalent horsepower.

ROFLMAO!

 

[buickanddeere]

Ok thanks guys, that's what I was thinking. It's a 6500w continuos 8000w surge with a 30amp 240 plug so I should be good to go. I didn't know if the type of power it makes might screw with the welder or something, glad that's not an issue. The little Lincoln 110v mig I have won't quite be enough for the material I'm welding and my old Dialarc is just too big. I've been thinking about getting a new welder, now I have an excuse lol. I'm looking at maybe a Millermatic 211, or a AC/DC stick/tig combo like the Alphatig 200 or the new Lincoln square wave 200. Any recommendations on a small portable unit?

If you could find some AC run capacitors that would draw about 10amps of current . That would allow the generator to "handle" more welder .

 

[2Buckslake]

I work for a company that builds commercial & marine gensets. I built a 20kw Kubota diesel powered generator for my home, as living out in the country, I am on a well and co-op electric. No power, no water! I have a Hobart Ironman 230 mig welder and have used it with my generator several times. If you have a larger generator like I do, it works great! You just have to have enough kw to be able to cover the starting amps, whatever it may be. Now I can't say that my generator gives a pure sinewave, as some do not, but I haven't had any issues. Most of the gasoline powered generators that run at 3600rpm's are a two pole rotor design, and it's an inexpensive way to get electric power. With a 4 pole generator like I have, rpm is 1800 and it is a dedicated single phase unit, so no problem with what it can do, with 20KW giving 83amps of current at 240volts....

 

[Sawyer Rob]

I work for a company that builds commercial & marine gensets. I built a 20kw Kubota diesel powered generator for my home, 20KW giving 83amps of current at 240volts....

That should be a REALLY nice genset to own! Plenty of power at a lower RPM...

SR

 

[Katahdin]

I've run a M211 off a Generac 5500/8500 wheelhouse without any problems.

That said, I have a plasma cutter with overload protection that refuses to run off the same generator. A check with a multimeter showed the generator was putting out 250volts, I guess that's a little too hot for the plasma cutter.

 

[dntfxr]

I've run a M211 off a Generac 5500/8500 wheelhouse without any problems.

That said, I have a plasma cutter with overload protection that refuses to run off the same generator. A check with a multimeter showed the generator was putting out 250volts, I guess that's a little too hot for the plasma cutter.

Great feedback, much appreciated! Is your 211 the original transformer model or the newer inverter?

For that matter does anyone know if the transformer verses inverter type welder would be any difference running off a generator?