2013 PowerPro 205S

[bluetec]

I received my new 2013 PowerPro 205S today. I wish an online manual existed; the enclosed operating instructions leave a lot to be desired.

I was elated that the TIG torch is not the hefty air-cooled WP-26. It is a model SR-26 with a 13-foot cable. It is a straight handle, like the Everlast WP26F15, except the neck is rigid.

I am disappointed that the plasma torch is not a Trafimet S-45, as advertised and shown on the PP205 product page. It is a generic copy of a Trafimet, with no CE marking (European Conformity) and no model number, imprinted on the handle. I have to assume it's a 40-amp rated torch (the S-45 is rated at 40amp, 60% duty cycle; not 50amp) I discussed this with Oleg. Where's my Trafimet, Oleg??? Some Trafimet clones will not work with genuine Trafimet consumables. I have no idea if this one will.

The dimensions are: 9.25 in wide, 22 in long, 17.25 in tall, These are the outside dimensions of black plastic, on ends of case. The power cord entrance and air inlet, including a 90-degree bend, add 1.5 inches. Sitting on the top of a Northern Tool (Metalman) welding cart, item # 16472, it exceeds the front edge by 2 inches, just barely resting on the edge.

I tested the Trafimet-clone plasma torch at 20amps on 1mm thick sheet metal and it cut fine.

I have not tested the TIG torch. I have a CKFL130 torch, with a Safe-Loc SL2-35G DINSE connector and it would not work! I could get it to insert all the way, but it would not turn to lock. I compared all the measurements of the Everlast DINSE connectors and, except for the CK connector being longer (which still inserted fully) the only difference was the keyway on the Safe-Loc was 1mm taller than the Everlast keyways. I ground off 1mm off the height of the Safe-Loc and it worked; problem solved. I don't know if this was a machining error on CK's part, but the connector would not work in either the positive or negative inputs.

The unit came with a molded NEMA 6-50P connector, with a 7'8" cord. That's good, if you have your welder that close to your power outlet, but bad if you need a longer cord.

That's all for now; hope this helps!

[Oleg]

bluetec


New manual for PP205S and PP256S will be uploaded later today ! Our s45 working just fine with genuine Trafimet consumables.

[performance]

I believe this torch that you have with the current unit is actually heavier built internally. I have had them apart and compared. The S-45 that is sent out is heavier built and will handle the amperage better. And we have tested this company's cons and they actually outlast the trafimet...

[bluetec]

Thank you, Oleg and Mark, for the quick reply and information. The online manual is thorough and complete, but does not cover replacement of the power cord. I would like to replace the supplied cord with a 15-foot, 2-guage, 2-wire/with ground, welding cord, with a NEMA 6-50P connector. Is this possible, with the wire connections, inside the unit?

[performance]

Thank you, Oleg and Mark, for the quick reply and information. The online manual is thorough and complete, but does not cover replacement of the power cord. I would like to replace the supplied cord with a 15-foot, 2-guage, 2-wire/with ground, welding cord, with a NEMA 6-50P connector. Is this possible, with the wire connections, inside the unit?

That's intentional. Do not replace the cord. You can add an extension, properly sized of course, but the wire diameter and size is designed for the powe switch terminals and the input current. We will not warranty any damage caused by monkeying around with the cord and plug. We've had people try to replace the cord for a "heavier" wire to suit their electrician's demands (uninformed about the NEC) because they thought a heavier wire should be on it, and have broken things in the process. We've gone through the trouble of having adding a plug for the customer so this wouldn't be an issue.

[fitter]

That's intentional. Do not replace the cord. You can add an extension, properly sized of course, but the wire diameter and size is designed for the powe switch terminals and the input current. We will not warranty any damage caused by monkeying around with the cord and plug. We've had people try to replace the cord for a "heavier" wire to suit their electrician's demands (uninformed about the NEC) because they thought a heavier wire should be on it, and have broken things in the process. We've gone through the trouble of having adding a plug for the customer so this wouldn't be an issue.

Hello, what size compressor do you need for the 205S plasma cutter? Thank You.

[Rambozo]

Hello, what size compressor do you need for the 205S plasma cutter? Thank You.

Since that is a 50A I would say you can use the spec for the PP50 since it's not in the PP205S manual.
3.5-4 cfm minimum @ 90 psi with a 30-60 gallon reserve. And of course make sure you have a good air dryer installed.
Rule of thumb is if while using, you see your tank pressure fall below the cut-in point, you need more air. The actual size also depends on what other air consumers you are using, too.

[performance]

Spec should be 5 cfm for regular operation.

[Rambozo]

Spec should be 5 cfm for regular operation.

Time to update the new manual.