Model Numbers

[Paul G]

Hi All.

Just a thought, but virtually all welding machines have a number in their name.
A "Watsit 150", or a "Thingy 130" etc. etc.
I / we assume this refers to its maximum amps, but does it?
Do manufacturers stretch this a bit? Does a "Blah blah 200" really give us 200amps?

For instance, I have an old Lincoln 210 that says on the info plate that that the max amps are 185.

Like I say, it's just a thought.

Cheers,
Paul G

 

[Wedg1e]

As you say, the implication is that the model number indicates the ouput and it was certainly true way back when: I have two 1980's Oxfords, a 120s and a MIG300 and their rating plates state that they can indeed attain those currents (the 300 can knock out 225A at 100% duty cycle )
My (2006) SMP171 TIG set also produces 170A (I measured it ) so it can still apply, however it would seem to be part of a cynical move by manufacturers to sell you less for more. Make sure you read the small print!

 

[Wozzaaah]

It sometimes does and sometimes doesn't. Clarke is a typical example, their 160 is 150A, their 135 is 130A and their 205 is only 185A whereas their 150 is 150A.
Far too many Rowntrees Randoms going about in their welder dept.

 

[shenion]

Yes, it has eroded over the years. My Miller 250 will weld at 330A at 60% duty cycle (100% at 250), May Airco 300 is 300A at 60% and goes up to 475 amps.

That is the way things were in the late '70s. Has gone down ever since then.