Which Welder is best for thsi job?

admin

I have a 115v 65amp mig welder and i am looking into buying a 115v arc welder.......The question is which one is better for welding Iron for making Ordamental Gates and fences
Reply:If you need the portability for on site work, a small inverter is dandy. A used MAxstar140, or a Maxstar150S (stick only) is a reasonable starter machine on 120/240
Reply:I am a contractor and work with blacksmith who does what you are wanting to do.  The miller 130 mig and all other equilivants will do the gate fine.  Only problem is when you have everything all tacked together, but easy on your duty cycle.  Take an extra coffee break during your weld up.  However, when we hang the gate there is a problem.  For most of the gate its 1/16"-3/16" thick.  But for the hinge we use a piece of 1 inch rnd bar welded to a half inch by 2 I believe it is flatbar that is usually around 4 1/2 inches long.  Then we can cut that flat bar to size and its welded to a plate that is easy set into the concrete or anchored in with bolts.  The 130 amp mig has a terrible time with this thickness of steel though.  It cant handle the half inch.  If you bevel your plate that will help.  Its an extra step a lot of people dont do though. I choose to just use my bobcat stick welder instead.     I think thats the way to go.  But that 130 amp machine will suffice.  Also, use the biggest extension cord possible and keep it as close to the receptacle as possible.  Good luck!CHRIS