AC or AC/DC?

[Mark @ Everlast]

There are differences between inverter and transformer machines. Features that are not afforded a standard transformer machine like the thunderbolts and tombstone are hot start and arc force control. Inverter type machines may or may not have them as standard features, but at some point usually has them available. The PowerARC does have them standard, as well as the Miller CST, and XMT series. There is a "noticeable" difference in starting quality and overall arc stability with these features. These make stick welding a much more enjoyable task while allowing smoother starts and much more stable arc allowing shorter arc lengths for out of position welding.

 

[yomax4]

If cost allows, Buy a new age Inverter. You get pure crisp welds and you will pick up portability as well. You can throw a 200 Amp DC Inverter in your trunk with one hand and haul it where ever you want to go. Try that with your Buzz Box.. Anyway, Check out these Everlast units and or a few others, Thermal Arc, Miller, Etc. Buy what makes sense to you. AC is Dated and as you have read, Only used because that is all there was at the time. :thumbsup:

 

[yomax4]

If cost allows, Buy a new age Inverter. You get Pure Crisp Welds, Rod Options and you will pick up Portability as well. You can throw a 200 Amp DC Inverter in your trunk with one hand and haul it where ever you want to go. Try that with your Buzz Box.. Anyway, Check out these Everlast units and or a few others, Thermal Arc, Miller, Etc. Buy what makes sense to you. AC is Dated and as you have read, Only used because that is all there was at the time. :thumbsup:

 

[gauthier]

DC,You don't need ac,if you got dc output,unless you are tig welding aluminum,or something special like that.
AC,is like half welding compared to dc,easier to learn on dc too.Hard to learn to weld on a half machine.

Its like buying any new tool that you are not familar with the process,they sell cheap ones and they sell more expensive ones,if you buy the cheap ones,you know they are cheaper for a reason,limations,etc.
Buy a dc machine with at least 130-140 amps 60 percent duty cycle[stick I'm talking],you can than run a 1/8 rod all day long,not very often will you need a bigger rod than a 1/8th.

 

[melonhawg]

I opted for AC/ DC. I bought a Miller Thunderbolt and am very happy.

Another Miller Thunderbolt here.

Seems to be a pretty good machine. Since I'm new at welding, this welder hasn't given me any problems.. at first the rods would stick but I think that was user error