I decided to check the amp draw when burning a stick at the 50 amp setting. When burning a stick, my amperage averaged out to about 50 amps. I did vary quite a bit as compared to tig, but it averaged 50. Anyone know why it draws about 90 with tig, but 50 with stick when it is set at the 50 amp setti...

Poland308 wrote: How big were the pieces of 16 ga. At 90 amps with a close arc I would think that's right on.

1.25" square tubing.

I have been playing around with my Miller DC Thunderbolt for scratch start tig. It is a late 90's model with the crank handle on the top, and different plug taps to select AC or DC. I wanted to check the accuracy of the amp indicator. I dialed the Thunderbolt to 50 amps and put my cheap Craftsman am...

Actually, after looking at the duty cycle and limits of the machine, I am going to pass on the 180SD. The asking price is not much less than a new Lincoln 200 Square wave that it more capable.

I didn't realize how limited the 180SD was until I downloaded the manual.

I have been using a Thunderbolt DC to practice scratch start tig. I am looking at buying a real tig machine. I found a 180SD locally that looks like it is in good shape. The serial number shows it was made about 2003. How much do these typically go for? Would I be better off with a new inverter mach...

Thanks for the tips guys. I have been snapping out to end the arc, then quickly bringing the torch back to the weld and leaving it there to cool.

I will just regrind the blue tungstens. About half of my tungstens were turning blue, and I was not sure why.

Hello. New to the forum. I have been attempting to teach myself scratch start tig with my DC Thunderbolt and a 17v torch. Being new to tig, I am contaminating my tungsten on a regular basis. Sometimes my tungsten will get contaminated just at the tip, and other times it will have a blue heat discolo...