Do i need 2 110v migs; one w/ flux core; one w/ shielded gas to save time switching?

admin

Newbie ?. I have looked some on this site and cant find the answer to this question.  Seems to me from reading that there is a fair amount of time when one machine is owned in switching processes. Is this the case or am I wrong? I already own a Lincoln Weldpak 100 setup with shielding gas and I was thinking about buying another 110v mig used for $200 to $300 that I could have setup for flux core. Please advise. All help greatly appreciated!
Reply:You are right that it takes a good amount of time. I personally don't do flux core, but I do metal core in my Millermatic200, and solid in my Linclone. Both use gas. My alum, I have one dedicated to tacking, and one dedicated to welds. Each have different settings so I just plug in and fire up.Me? I like your logic. I usually have more than one of anything for backup anyway.Weld like a "WELDOR", not a wel-"DERR" MillerDynasty700DX,Dynasty350DX4ea,Dynasty200DX,Li  ncolnSW200-2ea.,MillerMatic350P,MillerMatic200w/spoolgun,MKCobraMig260,Lincoln SP-170T,PlasmaCam/Hypertherm1250,HFProTig2ea,MigMax1ea.
Reply:It depends on how frequently you intend to need to switch from one to another of the wire types. If switching once a week or less, then no big deal with just the one machine, but if several times a day or weekend then two machines may be an advantage. You might want to consider getting a dual voltage(120/240) rig since you already have one 120 volt machine. Then use the F/C in the small one for tacking and the solid wire in the 240 machine for final weld out at higher amperage.
Reply:[QUOTE=shovelon;3611651]You are right that it takes a good amount of time. I personally don't do flux core, but I do metal core in my Millermatic200, and solid in my Linclone. Both use gas. My alum, I have one dedicated to tacking, and one dedicated to welds. Each have different settings so I just plug in and fire up.Me? I like your logic. I usually have more than one of anything for backup anyway.
Reply:Once again, flux core mini-wire feeding welders are a complete scam. Go buy a buzz box and use the MIG on lighter stuff. You can tack everything up with your MIG, carry it outside and stick weld the day away.Bubble gumTooth pixDuct tapeBlack glueGBMF hammerScrew gun --bad battery (see above)
Reply:Thanks for the advice.... it is greatly appreciated.
Reply:Has it helped you make a decision about your question?
Reply:Here's what flux core is forBubble gumTooth pixDuct tapeBlack glueGBMF hammerScrew gun --bad battery (see above)
Reply:BTW. They would prefer gas shielded but in an imperfect world the wind wont permit it.Bubble gumTooth pixDuct tapeBlack glueGBMF hammerScrew gun --bad battery (see above)
Reply:Originally Posted by BurpeeOnce again, flux core mini-wire feeding welders are a complete scam. Go buy a buzz box and use the MIG on lighter stuff. You can tack everything up with your MIG, carry it outside and stick weld the day away.
Reply:What do you use the flux core machine on ? Outside work ?  Depending on use, I would up grade to a 220 volt machine if that's a option.Many have multiple machines. It can be difficult to do all types of work with only one machine effectively.
Reply:Thanks for everyone's advise and time!
Reply:Since you asked us for an opinion, here's another one...Get a decent 230v mig and dump the idea of a separate 110v flux core machine.  Spending money on two 110v machines is a waste.  Rather, use the money instead to have a 230v outlet installed and upgrade to a single 180 or 211 class mig welder.  A miller 211 on a 230v circuit plus gas shield will out weld a 110v flux core welder hands down.  If you need anything thicker than 3/8", use a buzzbox or go flux core with the 211 on the 230v circuit.Last edited by SuperArc; 01-23-2014 at 01:41 AM.Lincoln Power Mig 216Lincoln AC/DC-225/125Miller  625 X-Treme PlasmaMiller 211 Forney 95FI-A 301HF 91110Victor Journeyman O/PMilwaukee DaytonMakita  Baileigh NRA Life Member