Generators

[1972K20]

Originally Posted by Dead Parrot

What type welder? Old school transformer or newer inverter?

I have a 3kw military inverter generator(MEP 831A) that is supposed to provide 31A @ 120V. On a static load it does real good. If I try to use my Lincoln 140C welder(120V), the disconnect on the generator often opens. Guessing the inverter generator doesn't like the instant short the welder provides any time you have an oops with the wire distance.

Something to test before you buy an inverter type generator.

I have a 220V Miller Thunderbolt AC/DC stick welder. I was looking at the specs on it to understand what amperage it needs to run properly. Here's what I found:
https://www.millerwelds.com/-/media/...d8-0.pdf?la=en

It says "Amps input at rated output 230V: 47.5" So, is it that the amps needed? What happens if the power source does not provide that amount of amperage?

This generator shows it has a 240V/50A outlet.
https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/pr...5?cm_vc=-10005
Is that what is needed for the welder to work properly?

[AussieinNC]

Specs on that generator list outlet 120/240 on a 50 amp breaker...doesnt really mean that much.

It also lists Running Watts of 8000 W

Running Amps work out then to 33.33 Amps (8000 divided by 240)

As the welder needs 47.5 Amps for optimum output capability, this generator will only provide 70% of the required amperage.

To get the recommended amperage a generator would need to have a running watts rating of 11,400. (240 x 47.5)at 240 volts.

Not a recommendation, but something like this would be closer to what your need.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/DUROMAX-...E&gclsrc=aw.ds

[_Ogre]

Originally Posted by 1972K20

I have a 220V Miller Thunderbolt AC/DC stick welder. I was looking at the specs on it to understand what amperage it needs to run properly. Here's what I found:
https://www.millerwelds.com/-/media/...d8-0.pdf?la=en

It says "Amps input at rated output 230V: 47.5" So, is it that the amps needed? What happens if the power source does not provide that amount of amperage?

This generator shows it has a 240V/50A outlet.
https://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/pr...5?cm_vc=-10005
Is that what is needed for the welder to work properly?

you'd be better off buying a new mig welder than trying to buy a 50 amp generator. to convert watts to amps divide watts by voltage. the generator you linked to is 8000 watts, divide by 240 volts = 33.3 amps. reverse the math: 50A X 240V =12000W minimum to run your welder. you've just jumped from a $900 generator to a $2500 generator

i run my whole house on a $500 5000W, 20A generator, i'm on a well, so no power, no flushing the toilets. i can do most anything with the generator: wire weld remote locations, furnace at house and shop, well water, washer, dryer, computer and internet. i just can't do everything at the same time.