pt250ex vs pp256

[dgarnier]

just saw one of Jodys videos and he said the only things you loose on the 256 from the 250 was spot weld and lift start arc.

Looking at the everlast website it looks like the pt250ex has a tig duty cycle of 60%@250 A while the 256 is 35% @250 A


Is that a typeo or does the 250 have just about double the duty cycle of the 256?

[performance]

No typo. It is correct. There are many reasons, I have cited in the past additionally for choosing the individual units. IMHEO, the ONLY reason to purchase a multi process Tig/plasma is for portable repair operations. It is NOT intended for production or fabrication. Its designed to offer a go anywhere package that can be ported around as a single unit, say, in off road, a portable repair business, or even a factory for shutdowns or line repair. Its for where space is an space consideration is an absolute requirement.

[ASE_MasterTech]

No typo. It is correct. There are many reasons, I have cited in the past additionally for choosing the individual units. IMHEO, the ONLY reason to purchase a multi process Tig/plasma is for portable repair operations. It is NOT intended for production or fabrication. Its designed to offer a go anywhere package that can be ported around as a single unit, say, in off road, a portable repair business, or even a factory for shutdowns or line repair. Its for where space is an space consideration is an absolute requirement.

Huh what???
Everlast (you) list the PP256 as capable of, & I quote from your website - "General Repair, Fabrication, Motorsports, Industrial, Commercial, HVAC"
Please elaborate on this "downgrade"...

[performance]

Originally it wasn't put there. I know, because I wrote it. Apparently in some changes in the site, some templates got changed. The web guys are constantly making changes, and it is hard to keep up with when they do or undo something and screw up a page.

I and others have been clear from the outset about its abilities and limitations. To operate, you must constantly change out the hoses, lines and gases when you change the processes. This is not conducive a production/fabrication environment. Add to that the added parts involved in its manufacture, it does NOT have the same duty cycle as a production machine, and from a purely statistical standpoint, you will have more issues. A problem with one part of the unit equals a problem with the whole unit, and loss of use while it is being repaired/replaced if something happens. Is it industrial capable? Yes. Is it a commercial unit? Yes...But I am not arguing it isn't. I am telling people what the intended application is of this unit in the industrial/commercial market.

I never sell or promote them for fabrication, unless someone is clear on their limitations.

Unless space limitations or the conditions exist that I previously listed above, it is still my opinion that the customer is always better off with independent units. As I said before, and say again: Never had a person call me up and tell me they wish they had NOT bought individual units...but on the other hand, I have had several call me up and say they wish they had bought the separate units.

[jameswswanson]

I see the advantage of the multi process to the garage hobbiest who has a limited budget. One machine is much cheaper than two, and a lighter duty cycle is ok for light use. The multi process is fully capable welder and cutter right?

[dirtyfarmer]

I have a PP256 and it is the perfect machine for me. I don't ever intend to do production fabrication, but wanted a capable welder for the tig process that I've learned over the years. It welds beautifully and cuts like a champ. I also have limited space, so having one machine to do both is a plus. There is also the price -- just can't beat it! It is also a great stick welder, way way above my old AC225 Tombstone.
Regarding my limited space, that is why I designed my welding table/cart like I did. Just get it out when I need to. Otherwise it's parked out of the way. The drawer stores cables, stick rod, gloves,etc., all in one place.

[everlastsupport]

There's nothing wrong with the PP256, however Mark is correct. Also note the multiprocess units require swapping air/gas lines and torches. That in itself is not suitable for production.

As long as people understand it has a lighter duty-cycle (it still does 250AMPs) and you must switch things for the TIG/Plasma, it's a great unit for many. If you are one a budget or limited on space, you can't beat it.

[hooda]

So, does that mean that both functions of the PP256 are getting their power from the same IGBT module(s)?

[jameswswanson]

Tony-

I like your cart / table.

[dirtyfarmer]

Tony-

I like your cart / table.

James, Here are more pics.

[jetjoe]

It has also been mentioned in another thread that the PowerTig units have a low amp start capability that the PowerPro units do not. I am not sure how important a feature that is unless you like to tig beer/soda cans or razor blades together for some reason.

I like Tony's cart also. Where did you find the matching green paint?

[geezer]

Nice design, a real space saver, I think the drawer idea is the way to go to hold all the other things

[Ray]

So, does that mean that both functions of the PP256 are getting their power from the same IGBT module(s)?

Yes, it does.

[dirtyfarmer]

It has also been mentioned in another thread that the PowerTig units have a low amp start capability that the PowerPro units do not. I am not sure how important a feature that is unless you like to tig beer/soda cans or razor blades together for some reason.

I like Tony's cart also. Where did you find the matching green paint?

It's "Valspar" brand, premium enamel in 12oz. spray can,#65036 Garden Green

[single t gt]

There's nothing wrong with the PP256, however Mark is correct. Also note the multiprocess units require swapping air/gas lines and torches. That in itself is not suitable for production.

As long as people understand it has a lighter duty-cycle (it still does 250AMPs) and you must switch things for the TIG/Plasma, it's a great unit for many. If you are one a budget or limited on space, you can't beat it.

I made a manifold with several valves so I can keep air, argon, and helium hooked up. I just have to change leads.

[jetjoe]

I made a manifold with several valves so I can keep air, argon, and helium hooked up. I just have to change leads.

Do you have a picture of this and/or a list of parts used to make it?

[single t gt]

no I dont. basically it's just a bunch of female T's, npt unions, valves, and barbs. extremely simple and effective.

[rengaw21001]

Can you post a pic of your air/gas valving setup?
Thanks!

[single t gt]

ill try to snap a pic tomorrow.

[single t gt]

Like I said, simple and effective.