Tig Torch/cable talk. Upgrade?

admin

Here goes. My miller diversion came with the LS17 torch (rated at 150amps...but the machine can do 150amps, I don't get it)I read that it was a good idea to get rid of the big bulky torch in favor of a 9 series and superflex cable. So I got a custom fitting, 12.5' ck superflex cable and a ck9 torch. I LOVE LOVE LOVE this torch and cable, it's so much nicer and lighter. It's rated at 125amps and it does get hot pretty quick. Here is the questions: I finally got a 220v circuit installed so I can crank up the machine to 180 if need be. I tried it out today, had it up to 160 for a few small beads, then down to 140 for a few small beads. The torch got pretty hot as you can imagine. So now that I have the ability to crank it up and weld thicker material, what torch and cable should I get? Would like to keep it air cooled and as close to the ck9 torch/body size. The large LS17 and adapter and stuff that came with it are just too darn big.Thoughts/suggestions?Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Look at the CK torches. Of all the air cooled ones I've looked at, these have the highest duty cycle ratings at 100% at rated amps in both AC and DC.Understand that the duty cycle on your machine will very quickly become the limiting factor. Duty cycle on the Diversion 180 is 10% at 180 amps. If you get a torch with a higher duty cycle like the CK150 ( rated 100% at 150 amps) or the CK 210 ( rated 100% duty cycle at 200 amps) you will quickly cook your machine. Remember even if the thermal overload doesn't shut the machine down, you are still doing damage to interior components when you exceed the duty cycle.http://www.arc-zone.com/index.php?ma...3_728_907_1415.No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:So I want a torch that has a lower duty cycle than the welder?My ck9 is rated at 125amps at 100% so assuming I go past 125 the duty cycle drops? If that's the case how far can I push it? If I upgrade I just want to be sure I get what is right so I don't burn it up or affect the life span of my machine.And are there duty cycle ratings on cables? Mine is rated at 125 amps last I read. Not sure how a argon hose is rated but this is what I recall.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleSo I want a torch that has a lower duty cycle than the welder?
Reply:You think just stick with the ck9 for now and not get anything else?Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Yes, that is probably bestDynasty 200DXPassport plus w/ spoolmate 100victor 315c oxy/(act and prop)Miller digital elitemilwaukee power tools
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleYou think just stick with the ck9 for now and not get anything else?
Reply:Originally Posted by KelvinGet a Syncrowave 250!
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleOr not. Lol
Reply:Maybe a year or two.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Originally Posted by GambleMaybe a year or two.
Reply:Not sure I can afford anything more expensive so we will see what I can do or figure out.Super tight on a budget at the moment. So maybe just get a cheap one with more features for the time, no sure yet.Torchmate 2x2 CNC with Flashcut CNC controlsHypertherm Powermax45 Esab ET220i Razorweld 195 MigRazorweld 200ac/dc TigTormach 770, Tormach xstechRazorweld, Vipercut/Vipermig, SSC Foot Pedal Dealer
Reply:Take the 17 torch head that came with your diversion and use the grip and cord that you are using with the 9 torch.That's what I use anytime I get over 120 amps.  I've welded some pretty heavy aluminum for hours on end with my 165 using 75He/25Ar and it's still going strong with no issues.
Reply:Originally Posted by Mike E  I've welded some pretty heavy aluminum for hours on end with my 165 using 75He/25Ar and it's still going strong with no issues.