Millermatic pulsed mig?

[HAWK]

Andy249,

If you want rugged and mobile, then the 12RC is a great choice. It is a true CV feeder that connects to the XMT through the 14 pin connector. Set your machine process switch to CV wire feeder and the panel/remote to remote. You can adjust the wire speed and voltage directly at the feeder. If you have the Optima pulser you can make adjustments as needed because it has a 25 foot cord and can be extended if needed. I keep mine near my MIG torch for easy access.

If you are wanting a good economical bench type feeder, take a look at the 22A. It has some nice features including adjustable run in and burnback. The 60 series is a pulsed feeder. I AM NOT SURE IF THE PULSE FEATURE OF THIS FEEDER WILL WORK WITH THE XMT. IF SO, IT WOULD ELIMINATE THE NEED FOR THE OPTIMA. THE LITERATURE IS MISLEADING AND MY EXPERIENCE WITH THIS UNIT IS NILL SO "ASK ANDY" TO BE SURE.

[Andy249]

Hawk,

Thanks for the info, I won't be welding anything thinner than 3mm ahhhhh that would be ummmmm 1/8 thickness aluminium in the ole imperial scale. Thought I might need the pulse controller to get pulsed MIG up and going, should be alright though as far as changing settings on the fly without having to go the whole way back to the machine? In the short term I'll be using the 12VS brief case wire feeder, then I'll be switching to something a little more for the job and the power source. Suggestions?

Also, the pulses that I have used are an all in one unit, that is the powersource and wire feed are in the same box. These machines allow you to set your thickness/current/arc voltage etc. and it will make all the compensations for you, if I am running a separate wire feed unit will this mean I will need to dial in the wire speed at the wire feed unit? I must admit it is nice having a remote to avoid the trips going backwards and forwards!!

Regards,

Andy249
"Its the way it spatters that matters!"

[Lunar]

Thanks for the ideas guys!

[HAWK]

Lunar,

Given the choice between the MM251 with the push/pull module and the MM Pulser I would choose the MM251 push/pull. I am basing this on 1/16" and thicker aluminum. A smaller diameter wire such as .025" and even .030" bordering on short arc/spray will do 1/16" al without much trouble. If you are going to do a lot of aluminum less than 1/16", then I might opt for a different machine.

The MM350P is worth a look. It's new with great input power options as well as gun options. It is an all in one inverter based pulse GMAW machine.

My favorite set up is still the ALT304, Optima pulse controller, WC24 controller, and a 30A spoolgun. I really like the XR push/pull also when there are hours of welding to be done. It is much easier to spray a 16 lb spool than keep changing the 1 pounders in the 30A. I can run continuous beads on 20 gauge aluminum with the ALT and either wire feed set up (30A or XR system).

Decisions, decisions .... What to do?

[HAWK]

ANDY249,

The XMT CC/CV only (NOT THE VS MODEL) will pulse with the optional Optima controller. You cannot weld as thin as some other pulse machines due to the volt/amp curve, but it does very well.

[Andy249]

Hi Lunar,

I have found that everyone who I meet who builds ally boats swears by the pulsed MIG, I have used both and to be honest I can see the pros and cons of both, although I have received no formal pulsed MIG setup training. The pulse is really good for thin ally, you seem to be able to let the ally hang forever allowing you to get good penetration, same goes for things like vertical ups and overheads where you don't have to worry anywhere near as much as about spatter as you do with a conventional MIG (keeps the holes in your sleeve to a minimum!). Having said that though, I think I could build a straighter boat faster with a conventional MIG thanks to a higher deposition rate with less overall heat input, just my personal experience though, there are people who will say otherwise!!

I have used two brands of pulsed MIG, Fronius Synergic 300 (I think) and an EWM 300. Haven't used a Miller yet although the XMT 350 will be placed on order in the next few weeks I would say!! Can't wait, gimme gimme gimme!!

Laterz,

Andy249
"Its the way it spatters that matters!"

[Lunar]

I`d like to know if the pulse function really makes Al welding easier? I like the fact that the Pulser comes with two guns. I am welding for the most part 5052 and 6061 Al, boats mainly. Most welding will be on sheet metal between 1/16" and 1/4". Millermatic 251 push pull and the smaller pulser Hmmm...I am curious. Any information on the two about welding aluminum appreciated.