Gentlemen,
I hope this isn't considered off-topic, but I'm looking for advice on purchasing a welder. Since none of my friends or family members weld I'm hoping you guys wouldn't mind helping me out. From the research I've done online it seems that a MiG welding setup is easiest to use so I figured I'd start there. I don't want to weld for a living but just use it for various projects and tinkering. For example I'd like to build some of the plans from Dave & Vince Gingery, like the vacuum forming machine and injection molding machine, plus others.
I know I'd like a 110/115V machine and not 220/240V because I only have 115V 20amp circuits in my detached garage. I'd rather pay more and get a reliable machine then a piece of junk for cheap. I'd also like a machine that I 'grow' with, if I tackle larger projects.
So I'm open to advice: Is MiG the best to start with? What amp machine should I consider? How are the machines sold at Home Depot or Lowes? Anyone have good/bad experience with certain brands/models? I don't think I'd be welding Aluminum but are these machines capable of that or is that TiG?
Also advice on auto-darkening helmets and angle grinder brands/models and any other accessories would be greatly appreciated as well. Thanks in advance.
Brian
I hope this isn't considered off-topic, but I'm looking for advice on purchasing a welder. Since none of my friends or family members weld I'm hoping you guys wouldn't mind helping me out. From the research I've done online it seems that a MiG welding setup is easiest to use so I figured I'd start there. I don't want to weld for a living but just use it for various projects and tinkering. For example I'd like to build some of the plans from Dave & Vince Gingery, like the vacuum forming machine and injection molding machine, plus others.
I know I'd like a 110/115V machine and not 220/240V because I only have 115V 20amp circuits in my detached garage. I'd rather pay more and get a reliable machine then a piece of junk for cheap. I'd also like a machine that I 'grow' with, if I tackle larger projects.
So I'm open to advice: Is MiG the best to start with? What amp machine should I consider? How are the machines sold at Home Depot or Lowes? Anyone have good/bad experience with certain brands/models? I don't think I'd be welding Aluminum but are these machines capable of that or is that TiG?
Also advice on auto-darkening helmets and angle grinder brands/models and any other accessories would be greatly appreciated as well. Thanks in advance.
Brian