TIG welder for stainless steel

[chooch]

Hi,

I am looking for a TIG welder for stainless steel. I have read this thread http://www.mig-welding.co.uk/forum/threads/difference-between-clarke-tig-welders.43636/#post-482218 and think the SIP P178HF welder is a good one for the job as it has HF start. However it needs a 16A plug, which I guess is going to be a pain as it would need wired in by an electrician? To do the job are there other lower amperage welders which you recommend to perform the same function say 100-120A machines.

Thanks,
Ewan

 

[optima21]

if you're looking at using 100 to 120 amps max, you may well be ok using that welder on on a 13amp plug as its only at the higher current outputs that the 13+ amps would be used and you'll start blowing fuses

 

[langy]

My 200 machine runs on a 13 amp plug quite happily

 

[Richard.]

My 200 amp machine can be used to full wack on AC and DC on a 13amp plug also. Mine states on the plate 16amp supply. I don't think you'll find one that doesn't say that. It's really because some supply's are better than others.
Just so you know there isn't such a thing as a tig welder for stainless steel. All tig welders perform on DC negative polarity as a minimum ability machine. This is all you need to weld stainless from a machine. Thin gaged metal when performing long continuous runs it then helps to have a pulse function as this tightens the arc and reduces overall heat input and this aids to help with distortion. A gas lens is a big plus to use with SS but don't be sucked into thinking you need a drain pipe size shroud. All my SS is done with a no8 on a lens and I have no complaints with the surface finish.

 

[chooch]

Thanks guys,

I will go for the SIP welder and avoid cranking it right up... strange after posting this that I didn't get notified of replies. Hopefully you don't mind me posting more queries. I do realise that the welder is not specific for SS, but thought i'd post the intended application.

Thanks,
Ewan

 

[Richard.]

What is your budget mate. I could probably recommend better DC units in your price range than the sip.

 

[chooch]

Hi,

Thanks for your help so far. I have bought the SIP welder and it has arrived. Again I'm not sure why I didn't get notified of replies as I'm subscribed to this thread.
Anyway I have bought some rods TIG and ARC, still need to get an Argon bottle, regulator and hose to the machine (not supplied). The manual says I need to supply a Tungsten electrode, but there is one with the kit.

MrFuzzy, it's funny you mention HIS, they are quite local to me and good at what they do, but I think I will have saved some money ordering online - at least I hope so...

Thanks,
Ewan

 

[chooch]

One other thing I'd like to check. Since I'll be welding an stainless exhaust (304ss), will 316L filler material be ok, in lieu of 308L?

Thanks,
Ewan