Low Amperage

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Hello all, Welding newbie here. I own a PowCon SMP550 connected to 230v single phase with PowCon Powerdrive II wirefeeder. I've noticed I cannot get more than ~ 190 amps (as read from the front display) with settings turned all the way up and at higher wirefeed speeds. I'm welding mild steel with 0.045" fluxcore. The front display has a switch to read out either voltage or amperage. Typically the voltage reads 40 - 55 volts while welding (is this higher than expected?). I've double and triple checked all electrical connections and they seem very solid. Cables appear in decent shape as far as I can tell. I am curious if any of you veterans could advise any quick and easy tests I can do, either to zero in on the fault, narrow down the issue or rule potential sources out?Much thanks in advance!
Reply:I found a lot volt and amp meters read wrong. Something about welders are hard on meters.The voltage and amperage given on charts is at weld and not the machine Dave

Originally Posted by EngineeringMechanics

Hello all, Welding newbie here. I own a PowCon SMP550 connected to 230v single phase with PowCon Powerdrive II wirefeeder. I've noticed I cannot get more than ~ 190 amps (as read from the front display) with settings turned all the way up and at higher wirefeed speeds. I'm welding mild steel with 0.045" fluxcore. The front display has a switch to read out either voltage or amperage. Typically the voltage reads 40 - 55 volts while welding (is this higher than expected?). I've double and triple checked all electrical connections and they seem very solid. Cables appear in decent shape as far as I can tell. I am curious if any of you veterans could advise any quick and easy tests I can do, either to zero in on the fault, narrow down the issue or rule potential sources out?Much thanks in advance!
Reply:Use a clamp on amp meter while welding and see what the amp reading is.ChrisAuction Addict
Reply:Like the clamp idea. Will try that and report back.
Reply:I know the 300sm will output 200 amps on single phase,  wouldn't be surprised if the 550 was the same.Sanrex Sanstick 140s(hotstart&dig set perfectly)Thermal Arc 185( if you've used one u know)Thermal Arc 400 gmsMiller Shopmate 300( best wire arc!)Miller 75dx feederMiller PassportMiller s22p12Everlast 210stl30a