Quote Originally Posted by Rambozo View Post
Single pass capacity is not really a simple question. The machine puts out 210 amps, that is what can be measured and is a simple question to answer. It was mentioned that this is usually good for just over 1/4" in aluminum and probably a little thicker in steel. Would you weld 3/8 steel on one pass? probably not, it would not be the best joint even if you had 1000 amps on tap. As to Aluminum there are so many variables it's better just to list the output power. I'm sure for small pieces it would not be hard to weld 3/8" with 210 amps, add He and preheat and you could probably even go 1/2". At the same time, I bet this unit can't weld a 1/4" thick aluminum radio tower outside at Point Barrow, Alaska at -40°. Some makers inflate their machines by using best case scenarios, others are more conservative. Everlast seems to be about in the middle to conservative side. That is why you will see two welders with the same power output listed with different thicknesses. The only measurable figure is power output. That is what you should be comparing.
You're correct, but sometimes some basic information and answers are helpful, with the understanding that they are variable based on conditions. I found it very difficult to find basic "starting point" settings for TIG and Plasma. Weeks later I found a video that explained rule of thumb guidelines for plasma settings. It said 20A for 1/8" metal, and 10A more for every additional 1/8" of thickness, and 65-75psi of air pressure. Is it exact? Probably not, but it gives a reasonable starting point to work from. After that you make small adjustments until you find the perfect setting.