Running a welder on a generator for field use?

[dntfxr]

I've got a project coming up that will require welding away from any power sources. I do have a generac generator and was wondering how it would work to run something like a 200 amp stick inverter, or a Millermatic 211 mig off of the generator. Has anyone tried this? Or should I bite the bullet and get a Gas powered welder?

 

[STx]

I run my 130A wire feed welder (Lincoln 175 with flux core wire) off of a 3000W generator all the time. Can't run it at full power but I can run it plenty hot enough to weld up to 1/8" material. A bigger generator would let you run it at a higher power output.

 

[Sawyer Rob]

I run my 130A wire feed welder (Lincoln 175 with flux core wire) off of a 300W generator all the time. Can't run it at full power but I can run it plenty hot enough to weld up to 1/8" material. A bigger generator would let you run it at a higher power output.

300 watt gen set running a welder??

SR

 

[Sawyer Rob]

I've got a project coming up that will require welding away from any power sources. I do have a generac generator and was wondering how it would work to run something like a 200 amp stick inverter, or a Millermatic 211 mig off of the generator. Has anyone tried this? Or should I bite the bullet and get a Gas powered welder?

DEPENDS, how big is the generator and how many amps does the welder require??

SR

 

[notme]

if its hit and miss use I wouldn't buy a gas weldor...those lil inverter machines don't draw much jam..worse case scenario you could drop down to 3/32 rod and only need half your 200 amp potential...again it depends on your generator size but if its a decent 5k plus I wouldn't worry

 

[HCJtractor]

I run my Miller 211 and my inverter stick welder quite often off my Miller 250 Bobcat. It works just fine off that power source.

Sent from my iPad using TractorByNet

 

[dntfxr]

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?

 

[STx]

300 watt gen set running a welder??

SR

Or a typo, 3000. I don't think they even make a 300W generator so that it was a typo should've been obvious.

 

[CNC Dan]

Or a typo, 3000. I don't think they even make a 300W generator so that it was a typo should've been obvious.

I think have seen little ones at Harbor Freight.

 

[Stimw]

I have a Miller 210 and when I bought it I emailed Miller and ask if it would work on a generator and was told that it would.
I had a 200 AMP Miller Portable that I have since sold.
I now have a Wacker 5.6kw generator. I haven't tried it on the welder BUT, I have run my whole house including computer and TV/sound system for 12 days continuous after a close call from a hurricane with no problems.
I would guess those electronics would be more sensitive that a welder.