I need some recommendations for purchasing a TIG welder. The big reason for needing a TIG unit is a project that I working on that requires butt joining .040 thick German silver sheet (nickel silver). The joint is polished and must be invisible. The only way we have been able to figure out how to do it is to TIG the joint using parent metal for filler. Brazing is not an option because of the problems with getting color matching rod. German silver is a copper based alloy so it can be welded with a DC unit. A friend has tested the ability to weld this material with his TIG welder and it works well. The ability to do aluminum is a plus but not absolutely necessary. The criteria for what I need is a unit that can preferably be run on a 110 volt circuit with foot control. Realistic price is important and that along with the proper specs is important but I will spend more to get the right welder. I need a helmet and any related accessories Also I am new to TIG welding but have done some O/A welding so a unit that is easy to learn on is important.Alan
Reply:Miller maxstar 150. It will run on either 110 or 220. You can not weld aluminum with it. Spend the extra $300 and get the STL??? model with HF start up. You will not have as much issues with the lift start. The regular 150 is about $1100-1300. Add 300 to get the hf start.
Reply:If you are limited to 110 volt the 150 Maxstar sth is the way to go. If you can run a 22o power source go with the TA-185. That one will do aluminum and is not a whole lot more expensive than a Maxstar sth.DennisThermal Arc 185-TSWMillermatic Challenger 172VictorO/AAtlas Craftsman 12 by 24 LatheEsab PCM-875Wholesalem Tool Mill-Drill
Reply:Thermal arc makes a good small 120v dc tig unit also. I'd check them out for comparison.Smithboy...if it ain't broke, you ain't tryin'.
Reply:Another vote for the Maxstar 150 STH. That's the HF-start version with pulsing built-in. I have one. Second-most useful machine in the arsenal after the Passport for my work.
Reply:or try the lincoln V160 T it has puls controlChuckASME Pressure Vessel welder
Reply:I have an OTC MINITIG for sale. Pm me or hit me at [email protected] for pics and details.Tony