My Imported Welder

[henryarnold]

(09-13-2012, 05:11 AM)EdK Wrote:

(09-12-2012, 10:27 PM)henryarnold Wrote: I also own an import TIG welder. I bought it in 2006 and use it 3-4 times a year. Mine is a Mitec Super 160P. It's a 3 in1 machine. It can TIG weld steel and aluminum, stick weld, and it can plasma cut. I've used for all three except I'm not successful at welding aluminum.

I also started a Yahoo Group for these kinds of machines. If you are interested, there are manuals, photos, and repair hints. There are a few advantages for these machines. They are inexpensive, they weigh around 45 lbs., and they are mostly easy to use. The big disadvantage is that if they break, you have to ship it somewhere to get it repaired. Mine has never failed. I was also able to get torch parts at my local welding shop.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Chinese_TI...d=29921054

Henry Arnold

Hi Henry,

I knew you had gotten a TIG welder but forgot it was one of the 3-in-1 type. That looks like a very nice machine. When you say you're not successful at welding aluminum, is that because of the machines capabilities or is it just a learning curve you haven't gotten through yet?

Thanks,
Ed

Ed,

I think the welder is fine. It just me that can't get the hang of it. I learned to weld steel and stainless steel quickly but have had no luck with aluminum. I have already tried the usual tips. I clean the aluminum spotless with a stainless steel brush that has never been used on anything else. I clean the metal with acetone. I'm using a gas lens. I've tried turning up the cleaning action. No luck. I don't need to weld aluminum very often so I make things from steel or bolt my aluminum projects together.

The welder works great. I it is light weight and so far I haven't had any breakdowns. I also have a MIG and I have to say I like the whisper quiet of TIG welding. It's amazing how nice welds come out. No cleaning needed. I have also used my welder's plasma cutting torch. It works fantastic but is quite a surprise if you have never used a cutting torch. It sprays molten metal everywhere all while making a nice narrow kerf. Lots of fun. The downside of these welders are that they require being shipped somewhere for repairs unless you are lucky enough to live near one of the dealers. Number one purchase advice is to pick a dealer that has been around for a while and provides service. Purchase price should be secondary on this purchase. Second tip is to look into Miller which now has some less expensive TIG Welders. In 2006, their least expensive TIG Welder was about $2300. Now they have one in the $1400 range. My import Super 160P 3 in 1 was about $800 with all of the accessories.

Henry Arnold

Example Plasma Cut
   
Accessories that came with my 3 in 1
   
Practice TIG Welds
   
My Bandsaw Stand.