Inverter 211 on Aluminum

[JohnnyFbomb]

Hi guys. I've only come across a few steel vids with this new machine. Has anyone pulled the trigger with the new 211 and the 150 spoolmate? I'd like to buy one, but 3/16 - 1/4 would be it's main aluminum diet. I'm not ready to dump the extra money for a 252 and spool gun.

Thanks guys.

~Johnny

[ryanjones2150]

What do you plan to weld Johnny? That's the question you need to answer. In my experience, when I've "settled" for the smaller, more affordable machine, I've always regretted it later. Maybe holding out a little longer to get the bigger machine is doable.

I am a little biased, but if aluminum is the intended metal, why not TIG?

[JohnnyFbomb]

Hi Ryan. I believe you're right. I just didn't want to believe it. The problem is, the 211 and the 212 are not big enough with power or duty cycle. While the 252 is overkill. I plan on building a few 12 foot boats and the runs are longer, so no TIG. I'm also lazy and just want to point and shoot. Miller needs to scrap the 212 and bring out a 224 - 234. The gap between machine capabilities is too far IMO. I might have to look for used, or look for Red.

[H80N]

Hi Ryan. I believe you're right. I just didn't want to believe it. The problem is, the 211 and the 212 are not big enough with power or duty cycle. While the 252 is overkill. I plan on building a few 12 foot boats and the runs are longer, so no TIG. I'm also lazy and just want to point and shoot. Miller needs to scrap the 212 and bring out a 224 - 234. The gap between machine capabilities is too far IMO. I might have to look for used, or look for Red.

Why not look for good used MM200..??.. you could probably pick one up for $600+ or -

they have an output and duty cycle nearly identical to the MM252............

[OscarJr]

I have the new 211 and a spoolmate150, but have not used it on aluminum yet. I just got the spoolgun because it was pretty much free with the rebate.

[Broccoli1]

The new inverter MM211 is a 230amp machine. Your duty cycle will go down when in the upper range but it is a pretty slick little machine with power.

[Broccoli1]

Lincoln doesn't really offer anything better. Sure the 216 is a 250amp machine but it is a tapped machine-not necessarily a bad thing but you could save some by going with a Hobart IM230-also a 250amp machine and the Spoolgun is rated higher.

IM230 $1,499.00
200amp Spoolgun DP-3035 $496.00
$1,995.00

Powermig 216 $1,750.00
SG100 130amp rated $288.00
$2,030.00

[ryanjones2150]

I say look for a used something or other. Sounds like you might be in between sizes like you say. But if you're just making a couple of these things, why not tig it? There is no such thing as a "point and shoot" weld anything machine.

[JohnnyFbomb]

Lincoln doesn't really offer anything better. Sure the 216 is a 250amp machine but it is a tapped machine-not necessarily a bad thing but you could save some by going with a Hobart IM230-also a 250amp machine and the Spoolgun is rated higher.

IM230 $1,499.00
200amp Spoolgun DP-3035 $496.00
$1,995.00

Powermig 216 $1,750.00
SG100 130amp rated $288.00
$2,030.00

Broc, I think you might be onto something. The IM230 looks like it might just fit the bill. Northern tool has it on sale sometimes with the spoolmate for 1,830.00. I watched a few youtube vids of it in action on steel and alu and it's a performer for sure! The cost is very good as well.