Need help choosing SMAW welder

admin

I've heard that for welding SS,you have to use DCEP and wondering should I use AC or DC for mild steel?And I've heard "switching DCEP or DCEN", Are any DC welder able to "switch" between those two? or is it a special button/function? or is it just unplug and switch the electrode cable "Physically"?If I only got a DC welder,is it possible to weld mild steel and cast iron?Thanks
Reply:Yes, you can weld mild steel and cast iron with a DC welder.Some machines do have a switch to change from EP to EN.  Others need to be physically unplugged and switched.
Reply:Buy a DC welder if you can.  There is a DC electrode for every SMAW application.  You are more limited with AC, you can't use many of the xx14-xx24 electrodes with AC.  Some DC welders can do AC as well.  You can't use my favorite electrode, 6010, with an AC welder either.
Reply:Miller AC/DC Thunderbolt is my suggestion to help you build your Kingdom of Welding goodies
Reply:The thunderbolt is a good first ac/dc welder.  There is a hobart stickmate that is very similar and a lincoln 225/125-ac/dc a that will work well also.  Sometimes you can find these welders used at a nice price...they are all very reliable.  I can't remember exactly, but, I think the lincoln's lead wires are not switchable from the factory, but that can be easily fixed.Last edited by smithboy; 03-12-2006 at 09:03 AM.Smithboy...if it ain't broke, you ain't tryin'.
Reply:The Lincoln AC/DC 225 can be switched on the fly.  Just turn the lever from AC, DC+, or DC-.  Cost new is about 550.00.  You can pick up a used one for about 350.00.  These machines last forever.Neil
Reply:I used to own a Thunderbolt and liked it a lot.  It had very nice DC starting properties.  I recommend one.- "If ya can't be handsome, ya may as well be handy!"   HTP Invertig 201Lincoln Power Mig 255CLincoln SP125+Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 38
Reply:Originally Posted by GarauldI used to own a Thunderbolt and liked it a lot.  It had very nice DC starting properties.  I recommend one.