Power Wave 355M vs S350

admin

I'm trying to decide between the Lincoln 355M (K2368-1) and the S350 (K2823-1).Both machines are categorized as advanced process machines and are quite similar which is why I'm having a tough time deciding between the two. So far I have this...- the S350 can have a local interface to select things like stick mode but this requires an add-on option and about $700 more dollars- S350 list price is about $500 more than the 355M- S350 appears to be a more recent machine (July 2009) and likely has more current technology - the S350 can do one more process, TIG pulse- power is about the same even though the 355M has an output rating of 425a- the 355M uses twist-mate while the S350 uses tweco style connectors- the S350 has ethernet which can be used for future upgradesMike
Reply:Both welders are updateable. The 355M uses a RS232 connector, the S350 uses a Ethernet plug. The S350 is the new design and the 355M is the older design. Both require a wire feeder to weld. The C300 is the new design with a built in wire feeder.Both the 355M and the S350 can use a powerfeed 10 feeder. All the welder controls live on the feeder. I think your best bet is to call Lincoln factory and talk to the sales dept. Tell them what you want to weld and what process. Then ask which machine they would recommend. Ask for a 1st, 2nd and 3rd choice and why. Any package deals and what accessory kits are recommended.Had a local school buy some of the C300s because the school engineer matched the current needs of the welder to the power available in the school shop. The C300 required less current than other model welders.What type of welding do you plan on doing and do you already have any equipment that will work with these welder.Find out from your Lincoln sales office if they are demonstrating any of these welders in your area. So you can get in on it and ask questions.