tig/plasma combo machine

[stony]

I know you get what you pay for but does anyone have any comments on this welder??

 

Its a tig/plasma/stick welder.

 

I'm interested in the plasma and tig options. Mainly for automotive applications.

 

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220168093059&ssPageName=ADME:B:WNARL:US:1123

[proxlamus©]

ohh lala it does AC..

 

seems like a nice unit! im curious about how this is too?!

[stony]

Main reason i ask is I dont know jack about tig welding but i want to learn.... BUT i dont want to learn that the unit i buy ends up not having enough UMMMPPPFFFF to get the minor tasks like intercooler piping and smaller aluminum welding done.

 

 

So any imputs are welcome.

[Evan Purple240zt]

No clue, but want to subscribe. Price is way right, thats for sure.

[proxlamus©]

ive been welding up my intake manifold using a Miller TIG at school..

 

for thin aluminum I am using 70amps.. and about 60hz.. for thicker material and welding the thick flange to thin piping, I am using about 120hz.

 

Lower frequency is a bigger puddle... less penetration

Higher frequency is a narrow puddle with deep penetration.

Greater amperage is obviously more heat

 

you really shouldnt need anymore than 150amps and 200hz for everyday aluminum.

 

 

FYI - you can weld aluminum with a MIG... comes out fairly well too

[proxlamus©]

K i spoke to my welding instructor..

 

he said its a good unit.. cant weld alot of thick stuff.. like 1/4" is about max with steel or aluminum.. he recommended multiple passes for 1/4" or anything thicker. Bevels rock.

 

For the money though.. you can probably find a used Miller on craigslist with low hours. Plus I dont know if this unit has a cooling unit to cool the tungsten.. those puppies can produce an arc 20 times hotter than the surface of the sun.