equipment upgrade

By reidl Date 05-28-2003 01:54

I bought a Millermatic 130 several years ago as my 1st machine to learn how to weld. Now I'm thinking about upgrading to either a 175 or 210. Will I gain that much going to the 175 or would it be better to go to the 210? Also, where does one get a 220v extension cord and what gauge wire should it be? The 175 pulls 20 amps. Thanks.

By billvanderhoof (****)

Date 05-28-2003 04:31

I suspect that the seller of the welding machine will have extensions. Failing that you could build it yourself. Wire insulation that I have seen is all good for 600V. 20 amps would call for #12 wire for reasonable distance (say 50 ft). 4 conductor cable gives you two hots, neutral and ground (the ground can be smaller if the cable comes that way)
Bill

By Dirtrider (**)

Date 05-28-2003 15:16

I have the 175 and love it. If you're going to do thicker material, then go to the 210. If mobility is important and you're not going to be doing a lot of stuff over say 3/8" then the 175 would be great and you can still lift it by hand to move it if need be. I am very happy with mine.

I think Bill has the best idea on the extension, just go to the hardware store, get the wire & plugs and make one yourself. If you could actually find one already made it would be a fortune!

By Northweldor (***)

Date 05-30-2003 11:17

I think that 220V extensions are prohibited in most codes, but does anyone know for sure?

By bzzzzzzzzzz (**)

Date 05-30-2003 11:42

by extension do you mean another 220 recept. on the same circut, or a temporary extension cord to run a 220 device? I'm fairly sure the first is prohibited in residential applications. The latter may not even be covered with any "codes".

By billvanderhoof (****)

Date 05-31-2003 02:38

If so you could just wire one end directly into the machine. Probably wouldn't hurt to ask an electrician just to be on the safe side. Is there a site like this one for electrical questions?
Bill