Miller Econotwin HF

[pepsiguy]

Hello all. After unsuccesfully using my MIG for aluminum I decided to get a TIG unit, but I don't have a lot of money to spend.

I found a used Miller Econotwin HF for only $350 w/torch. I downloaded the manual and it looks good, but how is this unit for aluminum?


I know it's bg and heavy, but space isn't an issue. Next closest option was an econotig, but that is twice as much and has a really low duty cycle.

thx for the input

[HAWK]

pepsiguy,

You should have 150 amps at 50% duty cycle on DC and only 80 amps at 50% duty cycle on AC. These machines came in a variety if power input configurations. Make sure this one will fit your needs as in 230VAC, 60HZ, single phase if you are running residential power. $350 is an average deal as they are quite a few of these machines in the selling market right now.

If at all possible I would save my money for an Syncrowave 180 or even a Dynasty 200DX. You will be much better off in the long run. My guess is if you buy the econtwinHF, you will be stuck with it.

What is your trouble with the mig? Is it equipment, technique or material thickness? Maybe I can help you get up and running on it until you can afford a better TIG unit.

[pepsiguy]

Thanks for the reply. It bird's nests really bad. I can about 3-5 minutes before it starts getting bunched up. I even went with a U shaped wheel, new liner, etc. I know some of the newer machines are better with AL, but I didn't want to buy a new mig and end up with the same problem.

I need it to construct an internal support for a kit car body. Since it's not structural, figured I could get away without the bells and whistles of post-flow, pre-flow and everything else found on tig machines nowadays.

I noticed you didn't suggest the econotig, am I right that the low duty cycle is a problem or do you think it would work?

thanks again

[HAWK]

pepsiguy,

The Econotig will work for up 5/32" or a little over an 1/8" thickness in a single pass and if you take your sweet time you can multi-pass 3/16" and probably 1/4" with good joint prep and possibly preheat on the 1/4". Yes, the duty cycle is quite low. It is a true hobbyist machine though some push it hard and do more than it was designed to do. ORGALMEISTER had one for sale a while back and may still have it. I don't think his email is open through this forum. If you are interested in his machine, just start a post titled: "ORGALMEISTER: LOOKING TO BUY USED ECONOTIG" and he should respond.

I mainly mentioned the Syncro 180 and the Dynasty 200DX as they are quality machines built for everyday use. I have several of the Dynasty series machines and cannot say enough good about them! If this is a one time project, then perhaps you could pay to have it fabricated. Let us know what you decide to do.

[HAWK]

Originally posted by pepsiguy
Thanks for the reply. It bird's nests really bad. I can about 3-5 minutes before it starts getting bunched up. I even went with a U shaped wheel, new liner, etc.
thanks again

pepsiguy,

What length is your MIG torch? Are you keeping it straight to aid in feeding the aluminum? How is your drive roller tension set? What alloy aluminum wire and size are you using? What tip size are you using?