Newbie looking for 1st welder

[DXN1EL]

Any plans for a 300STH?

I see now it goes down to 10 AMPS :cool2:

 

[mikefromnh]

I'm not a sparky but here is my understanding of wiring a dedicated welder circuit according nec 630.11

So per the PDF it has a max input of 39 amp and a duty cycle of 35%

39 x .59 multiplier (from table 630.11(a)) = 23 amps...
according to nec 310.6 the max ampacity of 12 gauge is 25 amps
nec 630.12(a) states you can use a circuit breaker no more 200% the max input 200x39 = 78, round down to 70 for a max breaker

Conclusion: 12 gauge wire with a 40 amp breaker would be code compliant and be sufficient to provide max output for this welder...

I already have a dedicated 10/3 line run so I'll use that with a 40 amp breaker.

https://www.inkling.com/read/nfpa-national-electrical-code-handbook-2011/chapter-6/ii--arc-welders
http://lugsdirect.com/WireCurrentAmpacitiesNEC-Table-301-16.htm

(I know that goes against the 'standard' residential wiring mindset -- but I will check with local CEO to be sure I am interpreting this correctly)

 

[Mark @ Everlast]

The PowerARC 280STH's are on their way...1050.00 list price. Introductory price for TBN'rs is 950.00 shipped. All digital controlled welding. 250 amps stick/280 amps DC TIG. Hot start time and intensity along with Arc force control. VRD and 6010 capability.

 

[IslandTractor]

The PowerARC 280STH's are on their way...1050.00 list price. Introductory price for TBN'rs is 950.00 shipped. All digital controlled welding. 250 amps stick/280 amps DC TIG. Hot start time and intensity along with Arc force control. VRD and 6010 capability.

wow, 280 amps TIG. I don't think an air cooled torch is gonna work with that bad boy.

 

[Brad_Blazer]

The title states it has a grind mode but then in the write up it only has shades 9-13 -- maybe it's a new feature?

I don't have a NT local here in maine so I'd be looking at ~$70 shipped. Still a good deal if it has the shades 5-6-7. As every other helmet with a grind and cut mode seems to be 200 and up.

I just got some coupons in the mail. 178055 for $10 off $50 purchase, 178056 for $5 off $15, 178054 for $20 off $100. They should work online. Good through 4/8/14.

 

[mikefromnh]

Got the welder last night

For posterity, here are my first ever welds.

3/32 6013 dcep on 1/8" at 65 amps. Running on 110v.

 

[IslandTractor]

They look better than my first welds.

 

[Mark @ Everlast]

Slow it down till the V's look more like C's or U's. Keep the rod held closer, right on the metal...and those BB's will disappear.

 

[vulcancowboy]

Very informative thread. How does the ST200 compare to an old AC Lincoln tombstone stick welder as far as ease of use? I used to have one years ago and, honestly, never got very good with it.

 

[k0ua]

Very informative thread. How does the ST200 compare to an old AC Lincoln tombstone stick welder as far as ease of use? I used to have one years ago and, honestly, never got very good with it.

Just as easy to use, only the amperage control is more precise. You have a potentiometer control of the current and digital readout of same, instead of switched taps. Taps are always too cold, and too hot. Well maybe not always but it seems that way sometimes.