CK 200 Torch

[sschefer]

I got my CK 200 rigid from Arc-Zone today along with the gas saver kit. I ordered the torch with rubber hoses and it was a good choice. It's like having a 25' whip. It's definitely a much more relaxed feel in my hand. Theres no resistance at all when adjusting torch angle or moving along the weld. That stupid Radnor I had was like one of those self coiling air hoses that HF sells. My Weldtec had softer hoses but not nearly as nice as the CK. I highly recommend the option.

I set it up on mixed gas 80ar/20he and put the gas saver lens kit in it. I was a little sceptical when I was putting it together as it felt a little on the delicate side. It is but once it's all together it's a pretty rugged setup. The kit comes with clear cups also but I haven't tried them yet.

My first weld was on some 1/8" flat bar and the first thing I noticed was how easy it lit off. I was running 125 amps and I was trying for full penetration and got it without any problem.

I backed down to 100 amps and welded at couple of nice beads with practically no frost line at all. That's something I didn't expect but was very happy to see. The beads were nice, shinny and clean. My tungsten remained clean and sharp which was another happy supprise.

The torch ran very cool compared to my WeldTec and crappy Radnor and the water flow rate was perfect.

The gas valve is a welcome additon when using mixed gas. The helium being lighter than air tends to pull the gas out of the hose when it's sitting idle. With the gas valve closed until it's time to weld and about a 1/2 second of preflow all of the air was out and the welds started nice and clean. I expect at some point I'll forget to turn on the valve and cook a tungsten.. When it happens I'll just slap myself in the forehead and move on.

I ordered 2500.00 worth of Al which should arrive on Thursday and my welding systems are all dialed in so I'm ready to start building my boat.

[Rugar]

I got my CK200 Rigid Flex Neck setup from Arczone as well last night. Only had time to play around with it for a few Min's. on some aluminum, but damn are these super flex hoses nice! And I also noticed how there was barely any visible frost line. I had Jim make me up a extension hose for the torch water input that is not needed. I ordered the adapter today that I need to eliminate it to clean up the long hose issue. As soon as I get it I will be doing a full report on the new setup along with photos.

[sschefer]

Gerald, congrats! The CK torches definitely let you know right away that they are the difference between high quality and run of the mill. My WeldTec is a good small torch with a short handle and fairly soft hoses but it does heat up. The Radnor, well let's just say it fell really short in about every category but I'll keep it around for a back up.

Other readers - Bear in mind that we are not comparing the CK to the Everlast torch. The Everlast torch is a good torch of Euro styling and falls into a completely different class. When I get into really thick metal, the Everlast torch will definitely be the one I use. The CK 200 is a specialty torch and designed for a smaller group of users.

[froader]

I am curious to see how you guy's have these torches setup with the fittings, etc. Pictures would be great as well as the part numbers. Sorry if I got off topic in the original thread before it got seperated.

[retusaf99]

I'm very interested in your CK200 torch project. I bet I'm not the only lurker hoping for a nice outcome! I have a PM205, and am thinking of a DIY cooler.

Pictures and part #'s would be great!

Doug

[jakeru]

I'm very interested in your CK200 torch project. I bet I'm not the only lurker hoping for a nice outcome! I have a PM205, and am thinking of a DIY cooler.

Pictures and part #'s would be great!

Doug

Doug - For a 250 amp power supply, the watercooled CK200 seems like a great way to go. But for a 200 amp TIG machine, I can't recommend more highly the CK trimline 210 aircooled torch over a complicated watercooled setup. The TL210 can do 200 amps AC @ 100% duty cycle, all your 200 amps machine can put out. You can also get "stubby" collets to put on the small (WP9/20 type) cups on the end which are really slick. Its a sweet setup without the complexity of the watercooled setup. For more info, read down a page or 2 in this thread:
http://www.everlastgenerators.com/fo...200p-wp17.html

Just make sure like Steve says, to get the superflex one-piece cable. The flex head is nice too but more "optional" IMO than the superflex cable. The torch/cable kit cost me about $105 custom ordered from my LWS. Then also get the "stubby" collets/collet bodies made by CK to use the WP9/20 cups on this torch body. Those add some more cost, but complete the compact setup. Hope this helps!