Is my welder AC or DC?

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Hey guys, I am wanting to convert an old arc welder to a scratch start TIG machine to see if I like it before I invest money in a serious set-up, although I've came to a problem. The arc welder doesn't have any markings on it mentioning AC or DC. So i'm just wondering if there's a test or a way to find out if it's either AC or DC before I decide I have to buy a DC arc welder. I've looked all over the place and cant find anything.Thanks in advance!
Reply:Is there a provision to switch the work and ground clamp leads to obtain either DC- or DC+? If the ground clamp's lead is hard wired to the machine its a sure bet its AC only.Lincoln PrecisionTig 275Miller 251Miller DialArc 250Bridgeport millHossfeld bender & diesLogan shaperJet 14 X 40 latheSouth Bend 9" 'C'Hypertherm 900Ellis 3000 band saw21"Royersford ExcelsiorTwo shops, still too many tools.
Reply:We have to have a hint.What color is it?What's the model number?What's the brand?What dials are on it?What do the dials say?That's like asking if your truck is gas or diesel, but we haven't got one clue about your welder.
Reply:Yes you are able to switch the ground and work leads around, this is what is leading me to believe it's a DC machine, but I would want a final test to be sure it is if there is a way.
Reply:I didn't bother mentioning a brand or model as it's an old Australian brand (1960-1970?) that's since been discontinued. But I completely understand where you're coming from!The welder is an 'Abel 130'.
Reply:Try burning a 1/8" 6010 at 100amps.That will tell you real quick.
Reply:I'm thinking you could do this with a volt meter across the leads and the welder on the lowest setting.
Reply:Pull the back/inspection panel off and if there isn't much more than a transformer inside it's an AC only machine. A couple of photos of the front panel and the receptacles for the leads would go a long way into giving you a definitive answer.Lincoln PrecisionTig 275Miller 251Miller DialArc 250Bridgeport millHossfeld bender & diesLogan shaperJet 14 X 40 latheSouth Bend 9" 'C'Hypertherm 900Ellis 3000 band saw21"Royersford ExcelsiorTwo shops, still too many tools.
Reply:Jaso, sorry to say.... The old Abel were all ac only.If you are only looking for a tig trial, put your location in your profile - perhaps somebody local can spare an hour on one of their machines?Cheers, Justin45+ years of accumulated fabrication junk - both physical and mental.....  occasionally some of it is vaguely useful.
Reply:Roy..Roy..Roy I can understand the general lack of research skills from the others  But from yerself?????http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/WELDER-MK...item566af5772dIt be an AC welderAnd Roy..................................."Any day above ground is a good day"http://www.farmersamm.com/
Reply:Originally Posted by WyoRoyPull the back/inspection panel off and if there isn't much more than a transformer inside it's an AC only machine. A couple of photos of the front panel and the receptacles for the leads would go a long way into giving you a definitive answer.
Reply:Originally Posted by ifabric8Jaso, sorry to say.... The old Abel were all ac only.If you are only looking for a tig trial, put your location in your profile - perhaps somebody local can spare an hour on one of their machines?Cheers, Justin
Reply:Originally Posted by farmersamm  Roy..Roy..Roy I can understand the general lack of research skills from the others  But from yerself?????http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/WELDER-MK...item566af5772dIt be an AC welderAnd Roy...................................
Reply:Originally Posted by jaso289Haha, my bad mate! I saw that model but mine appeared to be newer therefore I thought I might have been in luck, guess not  Guess it would be better for me to just buy a cheap TIG setup! Thanks for that though!
Reply:Just turn it on and hold the leads to your tongue. If it is dc it will feel similar to a 9 volt battery.
Reply:Originally Posted by farmersammNo bad  I just never miss a chance to make Roy's life miserable
Reply:We were going this Friday, but she can't get the day off.This time around we're going to the OKC Stockyards (supposedly the biggest in the country so they say), we've been getting screwed on the price going to the local sale barns.AND THE ONLY REMAINING FURR'S  IS IN MOORE  They've closed all the others.........morons!!!!!!!!!!!Drop the animals off for the Tuesday sale (I think it's on Tuesday for small lots), pick up some tire/wheel combos, pick up a turbo sleeve, and do some shopping, rounded out by the best all-you-can-eat on the planet............nay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  THE UNIVERSE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Anyhoo, it's now scheduled for next Friday"Any day above ground is a good day"http://www.farmersamm.com/
Reply:Originally Posted by Burnt GloveI'm thinking you could do this with a volt meter across the leads and the welder on the lowest setting.