Where to begin?

admin

Hey guys!!! O.k., here is my situation. Right now I am currently living in the Czech Republic because some of our family property had to be taken care of. I would like to get into welding and start learning how to do it, but do not want to take courses here because they look at "younger" people slightly differenty and do not take them seriously. Talk about sheer frustration and agism. Anyways, I am coming back to the U.S. again at the beginning of May and will have a job for almost the whole time I will be there until September, so I will get a opprotunity to make some money. The thing is, with me traveling back and forth, I have to consider all electrical appliances I buy because of the difference in electricity. In Europe there is 220 volts and in the US 110 or something.  I want to get into welding, and I would need some tips on what gear to buy, and how to start. I would like to learn how to tig weld, work with steels, aluminums, and titaniums. Please keep in mind my situation with electrical differences. What should I get?Thanks, Shredder111
Reply:http://www.millerwelds.com/education/autoline.htmlThe miller products with autoline appear to have the power capabilities you are looking for (I think this includes the entire dynasty line).  As I understand it though, most inverters will probably work.  The Czech Rep has 220v 50Hz, and the US has 110/220 60Hz.  Most inverters will sold in the US will operate on 50Hz.  http://users.pandora.be/worldstandards/electricity.htmaccording to this, you will need to wire it directly into the main while you are in the Czech Rep.  BTW, I am not an electrician by a long shot, so check with the manufacturers you settle on for their specific requirements and instructions before you buy...Smithboy...if it ain't broke, you ain't tryin'.
Reply:What kind of weld machine from miller products would you recommend for me to get for welding mountain bike frames together? Once more, I want to mainly work with steel, aluminum, and titanium. Are there any other reputable brands I should take a look at? My budget is 500$ max. Including protective gear and etc. Thank you, Shredder111
Reply:Five hundred dollars won't cut the mustard.  Double that for absolute minimum equipment and that would be used stuff.
Reply:Lol, o.k. than let me put it this way. You guys please tell me the supplies I need to be able to weld these metals, and most importantly experiment first, so I learn something before I spend a butt load of $$$ I want gear I can learn on, as well as create bike frames say 5-10 years later when I turn pro.  Thanks, Shredder111
Reply:Knowing what I know now and buying what I bought years ago, 250 amp minimum, a/c d/c, high frequency, water cooled tig torch, foot pedal, argon, flow meter, welding helmet, tungstens.  I hear those inverters are nice.