Just found this discussion after reading a few I see I can get better info here than anywhere. From people who use them, not sell them.
First, let’s get this straight: No, the earth clamp is not just an accessory to hold metal together! ALL the welding current passes through the earth clamp. Without a good earth connection, the performance of the welder and the welding machine will be compromised. This can only mean one thing: an inferior quality weld.
So here is what I am looking for: I am wanting a TIG welder maybe one with the stick option. I have always used a lincoln. I have considered many but nothing for definite. The Econotig sounds good with features and price. But I have noticed that there are not many people saying much positive.
Then there is the Diversion 165. I have been told not to buy something smaller than 200 amps or I would quickly outgrow it. The Dynasty 200 sounds excellent with good feedback from owners. But it also has a price of around $5500. I realize this is a Miller site but, I seen a lincoln precision tig 275 it is rated at 340 amps.
It's price tag is around $3250. It seems to have more bang 4-$. Any input would be great, tell me what yall think. O'yea I'm looking to do some Al and steel repairs and some projects.
Then possibly some jobs on the side. HIGH FREQUENCY LOST AT THE TORCH ON MILLER TIGI have a 1975 miller goldstar 300 amp machine, lost the high frequency start. Troubleshot and replaced a bad cr2.
Now great arcing at points but no hi frequency at the torch?? Have bee all over the machine and all resistors, capicators etc check out. Anyone had problem like this??? Am going bauld pulling my hair out checking this and all seems right.
One 15 ohm variable resistor was out and another 100 ohm fixed 5 ohm resistor was replaced. Would really like to hear someone with this same experience thanks Lloyd. You really cant compare the transformer(Precision tig, Syncrowave) to the inverter machines (Dynasty).I have used both Miller and Lincoln on the transformer tigs. I like the PT225 for a smaller unit and I think that the PT225 is a better unit than the Syn 200. I like Lincoln for the smaller units (transformer ones).
But if you are going up to a 250+ amp unit, the Millers are better. I like the Sny 250 over the PT 275.I have never used an inverter so I cant comment on that. But if I could afford a new tig machine, I would get a Dynasty 350. I have also read many good review on the TA 185.
TIG welding requires the most pieces of equipment out of any welding process. Making sure you have what you need and that you’re using it correctly can make or break a welding project. One of the main principles for TIG welding is control.
Each part of your TIG welding set up will help you better control your welding projects.Image Source:TIG TorchesMost TIG torches that come with welders are air cooled. However, some welders who work at higher temperatures prefer to use a water cooled torch that brings faster relief from the heat of welding. Welders tend to be divided about the necessity of a water-cooled torch, but those who use them say they make life easier for them.Another feature of TIG torches is greater control on the torch handle itself.
Since one hand is tied up with feeding the filler metal during TIG welding, a torch with all of the settings you need can help you control the heat input for your job. Choosing Your ElectrodeThe best electrode for your job will provide enough current to make a clean, strong weld, but it will also make it easy to strike an arc and provide a stable arc while welding. The type of metal and weld joint will determine the kind of electrode you choose as well.Although TIG electrodes are considered “non-consummable,” they will burn off over time. The less burn off, the better your weld will be. This is why long-lasting thoriated electrodes are popular, even though they give off radioactive dust when ground down. Be sure to wear a respirator when using these electrodes.Lanthanated electrodes offer many of the same benefits as thoriated, and they do not have radioactive elements in them.
Ceriated are also excellent choices since they function well at low amperages and provide easy arc starts. All three of the electrodes mentioned here can be used for AC or DC welding. Grinding WheelA grinding wheel is an essential accessory for TIG welding since the electrode needs to be ground down to either a ball or a tip depending on your project. Grinding wheels need to be kept clean of contaminants that could ruin the electrode. When done grinding, be sure to wipe off your electrodes with a cloth that won’t leave any residue on the electrode.
Shielding GasThe main difference between the various shielding gas mixtures for TIG welding is the heat transfer that each gas permits. Helium is often used for thicker metals because it transfers more heat than pure argon. For thinner metals such as aluminum, a mixture of helium and argon will prevent the weld from becoming too hot. Learn More About TIG Welding.