Looks like I'll be needing to replace my cheapo multi-process welder with a new MIG, only just getting into welder and learning some very basics, so want to be back hands on to practice and develop my skills.
I know this is asked a lot, but I'm hoping the forum will help me decide on a replacement welding machine.
Initially I wanted a multi-process machine, although in practice I am much more likely to use MIG/MAG than any other process for some time, so the priority will be a nice and reliable MIG/MAG setup, with any other process being a nice bonus rather than a requirement.
Dinse connections and ability to take a standard euro torch are important to me; I've just spent money on building a new return lead which it'll be nice to be able to use, although at only 25mm squared, not sure how practical that will be on a new and better machine.
As I'm new to welding I don't fully understand what I'll be using the welder for, but I am interested in general fabrication and see me using mild steel from 1.5mm through to 6mm or so.
I don't have a gas cylinder yet, so if the machine didn't take up the full £1k budget, I'd like to be able to get one as well. A machine capable of running flux core without gas would be very useful for times when I don't have access to gas.
The garage where I weld as a 16A supply; I may be able to change this, but would ideally be able to at least use the existing 16A supply for a good chunk of the welders power settings.
A digital read out would be nice, but not essential.
I would need a machine that can take 5kg spools of wire without modification, and ideally be able to take 15kg reels.
Weight is a consideration, but I already have a platform trolley the welder can sit on so this isn't the highest priority.
I like the look of the Thermal Arc Fabricator 181i over at Welding Supplies Direct, although I might be able to get a slightly bigger machine, what are peoples thoughts on this and are there any others I should be considering?
https://www.weldingsuppliesdirect.c...s/thermal-arc-fabricator-181i-mig-welder.html
Thank you all for your help.
I know this is asked a lot, but I'm hoping the forum will help me decide on a replacement welding machine.
Initially I wanted a multi-process machine, although in practice I am much more likely to use MIG/MAG than any other process for some time, so the priority will be a nice and reliable MIG/MAG setup, with any other process being a nice bonus rather than a requirement.
Dinse connections and ability to take a standard euro torch are important to me; I've just spent money on building a new return lead which it'll be nice to be able to use, although at only 25mm squared, not sure how practical that will be on a new and better machine.
As I'm new to welding I don't fully understand what I'll be using the welder for, but I am interested in general fabrication and see me using mild steel from 1.5mm through to 6mm or so.
I don't have a gas cylinder yet, so if the machine didn't take up the full £1k budget, I'd like to be able to get one as well. A machine capable of running flux core without gas would be very useful for times when I don't have access to gas.
The garage where I weld as a 16A supply; I may be able to change this, but would ideally be able to at least use the existing 16A supply for a good chunk of the welders power settings.
A digital read out would be nice, but not essential.
I would need a machine that can take 5kg spools of wire without modification, and ideally be able to take 15kg reels.
Weight is a consideration, but I already have a platform trolley the welder can sit on so this isn't the highest priority.
I like the look of the Thermal Arc Fabricator 181i over at Welding Supplies Direct, although I might be able to get a slightly bigger machine, what are peoples thoughts on this and are there any others I should be considering?
https://www.weldingsuppliesdirect.c...s/thermal-arc-fabricator-181i-mig-welder.html
Thank you all for your help.