AC amps vs DC amps on stick welder?

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My stick welder has I think 240 AC amps and 140 DC amps. I've read that DC reverse polarity gives maximum penetration. So are DC amps more powerful than AC amps? I'm sure I'm botching the technical electrician language but that's the best way I can ask it.John 3:16(2) Miller Pheonix 456(2) Millermertic 252Dynasty 210DXHobart 210MVPDoringer D350 SA Cold SawScotchman 350LT Cold SawWebb 10x50 MillWebb 15x40 LatheGeka Bendicrop Ironworker
Reply:One AC amp for one DC amp the reverse DC will provide better penetration but since you have 240AC/140DC machine the highest AC setting will beat the highest DC setting by a lot.old Miller spectrum 625 Lincoln SP-135 T, CO2+0.025 wireMiller model 250 and WP-18V torchCraftsman 100amp AC/DC and WP-17V torchCentury 115-004 HF arc stabilizerHome made 4 transformer spot welderHome made alternator welder
Reply:Reverse provides better penetration, straight gives greater electrode melt-off.  AC is midway between.  For very high current, fast welding, AC is sometimes preferred.  You have enough penetration, so might as well melt some rod.  There is less problem with arc blow/wander on AC, a consideration especially at high current."USMCPOP" First-born son: KIA  Iraq 1/26/05Syncrowave 250 w/ Coolmate 3Dialarc 250, Idealarc 250SP-175 +Firepower TIG 160S (gave the TA 161 STL to the son)Lincwelder AC180C (1952)Victor & Smith O/A torchesMiller spot welder
Reply:The machine gives you less DC amps because the rectifier that converts the AC output from the transformer to DC is not very efficient and you lose amperage.
Reply:Originally Posted by ironmangqThe machine gives you less DC amps because the rectifier that converts the AC output from the transformer to DC is not very efficient and you lose amperage.
Reply:Scrape off all of the stickers and turn the crank until it welds right FOR YOU.Bubble gumTooth pixDuct tapeBlack glueGBMF hammerScrew gun --bad battery (see above)