
Originally Posted by
No1up
What's up people. I'm a south texas welding student going on his last semester to receive his certificate, I'm eventually wanting to get my associates, but I'm out of fund, with already having a degree in chemical and environmental technology. LOL
Anyway, got my eye on an Everlast welder, I just need to peg it down to which one! LOL I love GTAW and found my self really enjoying aluminum and Stainless, but I am am MUCH better at SMAW since the school really pushes it!
Anyway, I'm sure I'll have lots of questions soon!

First of All, you need to determine if you need AC for Aluminum or Magnesium Welding, then how thick is the material you will be routinely welding with.
The MTS 200 and 250 are cool multifunction MIG/DC TIG/and STICK, and for MIG have Post Flow and a Pedal (absolute Must). You can do Steel SS and Aluminum MIG (Argon for Aluminum, Trimix for Stainless), with a Spoolgun for Aluminum.
If you need AC for Aluminum TIG, you will need to get a separate MIG and TIG machine, as there are no combo units yet that offer this in one package.
Up to 1/4", you can use a 200amp or 185amp, for 1/2" thick Materials, you will want a 250amp unit (Also will need a water cooler and torch for over 200amps TIG.
Also, depending on Duty cycle requirements. If you are mostly learning/hobby, you can get by with a lesser duty cycle (40% or less).
Lastly, if you need/want a plasma cutter, and duty cycle needs are low, you can save a lot with a combo TIG STICK, that incorporates a Plasma Cutter, although if money is available, most prefer separate units.
Aluminum really sucks (heat) so don't scrimp on power, unless you are keeping it to thin materials (< 1/8in).
Everlast PowerPro 256 (2013)
Northern Hybrid 200 & ST80i
HF 90Amp FluxCore (Don't laugh, it is what got me started)
Lotos LT5000D Plasma
HF 4x6 Horizontal Bandsaw
Rikon 18" Bandsaw w/VFD
Delta 14" Drill Press
Robland NLX31 Euro Combo WW