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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Sep 2009
    Location
    Gatton, QLD
    Posts
    35

    Default Generator for Arc Welder help

    I have an Ozito Arc Welder 140amp model that I use. I also have a CIG MIG, but often grab the stick welder because it is more convenient.

    I would like to use the Ozito out in the paddock but unsure of what generator rating is required. The Ozito has a 10 Amp plug and I rarely weld any more than 4mm thickness (usually 2 - 3 mm).

    What size generator should I be looking for to drive the little Ozito and associated hand tools (grinder / drill) and maybe someday an Inverter stick welder (140/170Amp).

    Any thoughts or recommendations are much appreciated!! Thanks!!

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Jun 2007
    Location
    sydney ( st marys )
    Age
    64
    Posts
    4,887

    Default

    Would think 6KVA or bigger.

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Feb 2003
    Location
    Garvoc VIC AUSTRALIA
    Posts
    1,656

    Default

    ditto
    Regards, Bob Thomas

    www.wombatsawmill.com

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Apr 2008
    Location
    Perth
    Posts
    269

    Default Bigger

    Yep, agree with the other two. I tried using a 5 kva Honda generator with a 140amp CIG TransArc Tradesman stick welder and could only manage using the smallest CIG rods. Had a few light fittings to attach to the top of poles at the local rifle club at the time and was not impressed with the Honda generator at all. I sold that machine to a local bloke and invested in a Welder/ Generator for the back of the ute. That was a breeze to use, lots of power and good solid welds using the bigger rods.

    DD

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Nov 2005
    Location
    adelaide
    Posts
    597

    Default

    yep bigger than 5 kva a 5 kva will work sort of but you have to be very confident with your arc starts

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Jan 2008
    Location
    Murwillumbah Nthn NSW
    Age
    68
    Posts
    118

    Default

    I lived for 15 years without mains power and did heaps of welding with a 2.5 kva using 2mm rods [ even2.5 mm rods would not run].As the generator got hotter and the resistance went up the rods would not run so good ,so a fine mist spray helped on a hot day .Also I took the governor off and had a throttle and flatened it while running an arc and idled it between rods etc

    Running the generator at higher reves than standard gives a lot more amps and penetration and didnt
    seem to affect the longevity of the welder .For that matter running drills and grinders at low revs on the generator didnt seem to harm them either.

    A little light 2.5 was good because you could carry the generator in one hand and the welder/mask/ rods in the other.

    See if they will let you try the welder on the generator first and if it runs rods ok then its big enough.

    good luck --Mat

  7. #7
    Join Date
    Aug 2009
    Location
    Quindanning, WA
    Posts
    175

    Default

    I have been using a 7kva with a 120 amp minimig for a few years no problem. Heaps of grunt for other power tools like cut off saws but not enough for a 3 hp compressor.

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