What size wire would I need to get 150 amps

[sportbike]

I think I would reconsider trying to run a sub box that has 150-200 amp capacity, and instead, run a single circuit that will cover your demand, and use a receptacle / plug for your equipment. Since you are a one man show, you won't need more than one piece of equipment at a time. It will be MUCH cheaper to run a 50-60 amp circuit than a 150-200 amp, both in the conductors, the breakers, switches, etc.

[ogorir]

I agree with sportbike, but I'll add that you should size it for your biggest draw PLUS the air compressor. generally speaking, you won't ever be running more than one of the 'main draws' (stick welding, lathe, mill, ect, tig alu, plasma) plus the air compressor. you should be able to get away with a 100a sub panel (although, I'd recommend spending the extra few bucks for a 'main' panel with a full disconnect for the shop, even though it's going to be wired as a sub panel. I put a 200a sub in the shop I work in a few months back and having to walk 200 yards over to the building the feed breaker is on is a real pain if you need to move a breaker in your new panel, ect.).

if it were me, I'd go 2ga copper if it were me, but your funding may not allow that. 44' isn't that far, in the grand scheme of things. my Imig is plugged into 50' of 8-3 extension cable and about 25' of 6-3 back to the panel. no issues.

since you're just trying to get on your feet, if the welder is the biggest issue, buy yourself a 50' run of 8-3 SEOOW extension cable (6-3 would be better, but it's a big jump in price) and some ends and run that for a while. until you start making some money, you can work off a harbor freight POS air compressor that will run off a 20a breaker (I'm assuming here that your garage has at least lights and a couple of outlets). 50' of 8-3 and ends cost me about $140 in may here in waco, to give you an idea.