Re: To Invertec or not to Invertec

Thanks for all the info guys. I would guess that to convert to higher
frequency,
you would have to convert to DC first (rectification of the 220VAC line to
360VDC)
This is done using diodes or a full wave bridge. Then you chop that at
100KHz with a switching power supply that uses a much smaller transformer
but more semiconductors, either SCR's or transistors, and step down that
voltage to a high current low voltage winding. Then Filtering of the output
required for this type might be alot smaller as well.

As Vernon said, this results in a much smaller, and lower weight unit, but I
imagine it's much more complex,
less reliable, and a bitch to get repaired. I also imagine this technology
would not be accessible in the larger
welders, as it would be too expensive for hobbyists.

Lincoln is claiming they have this "MICRO-START" technology on their
precision TIG series welders.
They say it uses an alternative low power supply that back-fills the main
supply and helps start the arc
and maintain it more easily. This translates into shorter HF starts, less
trackmarcs, without HOT-starting
or HF re-engagement during rampdown on crater fill. Essentially making the
machine easier to use,
especially for less experienced operators.

They also had some other comparisons to Millers' Synchrowave series that
made it look real good.
Can you guys tell me if I'm falling for a bunch of marketing hype or is this
Lincoln stuff really superior?
-
....Kodiak


"Robert Ball" <rwballca@xxxxxxxxxxx> wrote in message
news:KZidnUtzENMjsQ7eRVn-vA@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
>A textbook about 10 years old says that inverter units increase the input
>power from 60 Hz (cycles) to several thousand Hz, then can use a smaller
>transformer (more efficient than transforming than at 60 Hz it says) to
>step down to the welding voltage, then convert that high freq power to low
>freq AC or to DC for welding. I assume amperage would not change with
>frequency so the transformer wires would be as heavy as a 60 Hz unit, just
>transformer overall size is smaller for the high freq. It is nice to have
>a welder that you can take to the job without using a hoist.
>
> Vernon wrote:
>
>>Kodiak,
>>
>>I'm giving you my opinion free. And likely over priced at that.
>>
>>If I'm not mistaken"Invertec" is simply Lincoln's cute buzz word for
>>"inverter technology". I am electrically challenged. Therefore, I
>>can't give you a technical definition of what an inverter is/does.
>>
>>But, as I conceptualize it, an inverter converts (inverts) DC to AC or
>>vice versa by means of diodes and doo-dads rather than by copper
>>windings.
>>
>>The good result is small size, light weight, low power consumption,
>>impressive duty cycle, and a very smooth arc.
>>
>>On the other hand, I've heard several people say that when an inverter
>>machine fails they're often not repairable. At least not at a
>>reasonable price.
>>
>>I have a Miller Maxstar 140 inverter machine. Plus I have several
>>transformer machines. The Maxstar is a damned lovable little guy. I
>>bought it last. If I'd bought it first I quite possibly wouldn't have
>>bought any of the other machines.
>>
>>However, I have always assumed that my as yet unborn grandchildren -
>>and perhaps THEIR descendants - will be welding with the transformer
>>machines. Or at least scrapping 'em for copper. I will be surprised
>>(or at least I would be if I were still around) if they'll be welding
>>with the Maxstar inverter machine.
>>
>>I trust Miller inverters more only because I've had good luck with one.
>> Don't know about the "Proline". But I sure wouldn't pay $2500 for it!
>>
>>V
>>
>>


.

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