PP256 2013 model Q:

[halojumper]

Waiting on my PP256... so I have a question

seeing how this unit comes with a water cooled torch, will they add a connector on the back for a cooler, like some of the Tig units?

[zoama]

Not on back of the machine. The water line connects at the torch connection.

[halojumper]

sorry, I guess I wasn't clear.. a power connection for the cooler, on the back of the unit, like some of the TIG units. (?)

[zoama]

I don't know that one, maybe sales can answer.

[Rambozo]

sorry, I guess I wasn't clear.. a power connection for the cooler, on the back of the unit, like some of the TIG units. (?)

I asked that some time ago and was told it's just a little too tight back there on the multi machines, even once they removed the CNC plug. It also makes scene since for other processes, you wouldn't need the cooler to come on.

[Grandslam99]

My 2012 PP256 came with the power connector installed. Plug and play with the W300 cooler.

[halojumper]

okay, interesting. I was looking at the 2012 manual for the PP256 and they don't show it.
pictures of the 2013 show a bit different layout on the front, but haven't seen the back, which is why I asked.
I guess they'll need to update the manuals.
thanks

[Big Paulie]

I have a PP256 on the way also. I also ordered an air cooled torch, to use until I get my water cooler sorted out. I figure it will be fine under 200 amps, and since I expect that only aluminum will drive me over, with the pulse factor reducing the average effect of the amps, I could get away with it for a while. Since the machine only has a 35% duty cycle at max amps, it should be workable, for my hobby needs.

Eventually, I will either build or buy a water cooler. Also, I was thinking of using my garden hose supply to plumb up a set of smaller hoses and fittings, using an RV water pressure regulator that limits water pressure to 35psi, and running the output to a sprinkler, so it is ecologically correct. Sounds hokey, but i work from my garage, and it is actually quite convenient. The only concern that I would have is the minerals that are present in the water supply and the long term effect on the internal passages of the torch. Anyone have experience with this kind of setup ??

[xalky]

Hindsight is 20/20, but you could have ran your water cooled as an air cooled torch. Anything under 200amps should be fine with an air cooled torch, or with a water cooled with no water in it. I've seen some guys run tap water thru thier water cooled torch...it works. The main concern as you already know is a buildup of mineral deposits. The other concern is if your garage space is gets below freezing the water could freeze inside the torch if its not blown out completely rendering your torch cracked and unusable. I made a homemade water cooler for mine and i used a 50/50 mix of water/antifreeze to circulate thru the torch and cooler. It's been working fine that way. I just used tap water in the mix as my water is soft, but if you have hard water, I'd recomend using distilled water or RO water.

[performance]

Xalky,
No, you can't run your water cooled torch under 200 amps as air cooled! That's a good way to burn up your torch. Bad info on this one.

Paulie,
Running your torch this way is a time honored method. It works and is fine...and has been done this way for years.



As far as the 256's go, the new ones have the receptacle in the back. The older models had a CNC plug briefly (not sure why or how or who...) but it was a stupid thing as these units not designed for heavy use for CNC) and when they were carrying it, there wasn't enough space. ONCE we took out the CNC port, there was enough room, so a few units in 2012 may have had the PowerPlug.

The 2013 manual clearly shows the plug. No need for an update for that reason.

[everlastsupport]

Xalky,
Paulie,
Running your torch this way is a time honored method. It works and is fine...and has been done this way for years.

Still do it when needed and well water no less. Torch is 4-5 years old. Speaking as me and not on behalf of Everlast by the way. FYI: I have a Bernard cooler, just a pain in the neck to drag out (they are square and things get stacked on them), and the SS tank, weight of the water, etc.

Also, under 100 amp and small stuff (very short welds) you might be OK, but we can not guarantee it. And would the downtime be worth it anyway? I have extra torches and chance it. Did a SS Ferrari exhaust at about 40 amps (an art thing), not a problem, no cooler. WP-20F with short cap, got warm, that was about it.

But 200amps, no way.