Characteristics of a good stick machine

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I have a fronius transpocket 1500 which is a top of the range stick inverter which I learned how to weld from from my father. It is an excellent stick machine.So back to my question.. How do u tell the difference between a good stick machine and a cheap chineese machine with the same amp power if Both for instance looked the same?Do u notice it in how the puddle reacts.?.how it strikes an arc ? How smooth it burns or are these just the characteristics of the rod itself??More chineese inverters are getting cheaper and cheaper! They come with good duty cycles now..big amperage range..and some can burn 6010s..ie the everlast/ longevity machines!So why pay big money for a European/us inverter when u can buy a chineese for half the price and there doing the exact same as these big brand machines..ie miller,lincolin,esab, fronius etc etc..Now I have never owned a chineese machine I'm just asking..the prices are tempting!
Reply:The chinese inverters tend to like a very short arc with 6010,  my PA 200 will not allow you to long arc a 6010 it will just go out if you do.  But shove it in tight and the PA 200 will burn her down.Journeyman / Red Seal Welder (What a useless test)Miller CST 280Miller XMT 350Miller 12vs XtremeEvolution Evo 28 mag drillEvolution 380 Dry Cut saw
Reply:Originally Posted by PaddypowerDo u notice it in how the puddle reacts.?.how it strikes an arc ? How smooth it burns or are these just the characteristics of the rod itself??
Reply:To tell if you have a good stick machine is easy.  If its labeled on the machine either: MILLER, LINCOLN, LINDE.... You have a great stick machine.  Period. "Hey I didn't come to look and learn, I came to turn and burn.... If I can't light up, I'm gonna light out!"-JodyIdealarc 250 "Fatman"MM 252MM 211 "Little boy" Victor Torches
Reply:consistency, it has to be able to hold a steady output through its entire operating range, or at least be within a narrow range. If it warms up and starts losing power it pretty useless.