Migmaster 250: Welding Packages
Migmaster 250: Welding Packages
Migmaster 250: Welding Packages
August, 1997
MIGMASTER 250
WELDING PACKAGES
F-15-087-E
NOTE: This manual is also suitable for use with L-TEC Migmaster 250 package.
These INSTRUCTIONS are for experienced operators. If you are not fully familiar with the principles
of operation and safe practices for electric welding equipment, we urge you to read our booklet,
"Precautions and Safe Practices for Arc Welding, Cutting and Gouging." Form 52-529. Do NOT permit
untrained persons to install, operate, or maintain this equipment. Do NOT attempt to install or operate
this equipment until you have read and fully understand these Instructions. If you do not fully
understand these Instructions, contact your supplier for further information. Be sure to read the
Safety Precautions on page 2 before installing or operating this equipment.
This equipment will perform in conformity with the description thereof contained in this manual and accompanying
labels and/or inserts when installed, operated, maintained and repaired in accordance with the instructions provided.
This equipment must be checked periodically. Defective equipment should not be used. Parts that are broken, missing,
worn, distorted or contaminated should be replaced immediately. Should such repair or replacement become
necessary, the manufacturer recommends that a telephone or written request for service advice be made to the
Authorized Distributor from whom purchased.
This equipment or any of its parts should not be altered without the prior written approval of the manufacturer. The
user of this equipment shall have the sole responsibility for any malfunction which results from improper use, faulty
maintenance, damage, improper repair or alteration by anyone other than the manufacturer or a service facility
designated by the manufacturer.
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
3
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
WARNING: These Safety Precautions are for 5. Do not use equipment beyond its ratings. For example,
your protection. They summarize precautionary overloaded welding cable can overheat and create a fire
information from the references listed in Addi- hazard.
tional Safety Information section. Before per- 6. After completing operations, inspect the work area to make
forming any installation or operating procedures, be sure to certain there are no hot sparks or hot metal which could
read and follow the safety precautions listed below as well cause a later fire. Use fire watchers when necessary.
as all other manuals, material safety data sheets, labels, etc. 7. For additional information, refer to NFPA Standard 51B,
Failure to observe Safety Precautions can result in injury or "Fire Prevention in Use of Cutting and Welding Processes",
death. available from the National Fire Protection Association,
PROTECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS -- Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
Some welding, cutting, and gouging
processes are noisy and require ear ELECTRICAL SHOCK -- Contact with live
protection. The arc, like the sun, emits electrical parts and ground can cause se-
ultraviolet (UV) and other radiation and vere injury or death. DO NOT use AC weld-
can injure skin and eyes. Hot metal can cause burns. ing current in damp areas, if movement is
Training in the proper use of the processes and equip- confined, or if there is danger of falling.
ment is essential to prevent accidents. Therefore:
1. Be sure the power source frame (chassis) is connected to
1. Always wear safety glasses with side shields in any work the ground system of the input power.
area, even if welding helmets, face shields, and goggles 2. Connect the workpiece to a good electrical ground.
are also required. 3. Connect the work cable to the workpiece. A poor or
2. Use a face shield fitted with the correct filter and cover missing connection can expose you or others to a fatal
plates to protect your eyes, face, neck, and ears from shock.
sparks and rays of the arc when operating or observing 4. Use well-maintained equipment. Replace worn or dam-
operations. Warn bystanders not to watch the arc and not aged cables.
to expose themselves to the rays of the electric-arc or hot 5. Keep everything dry, including clothing, work area, cables,
metal. torch/electrode holder, and power source.
3. Wear flameproof gauntlet type gloves, heavy long-sleeve 6. Make sure that all parts of your body are insulated from
shirt, cuffless trousers, high-topped shoes, and a welding
work and from ground.
helmet or cap for hair protection, to protect against arc
7. Do not stand directly on metal or the earth while working
rays and hot sparks or hot metal. A flameproof apron may
also be desirable as protection against radiated heat and in tight quarters or a damp area; stand on dry boards or
sparks. an insulating platform and wear rubber-soled shoes.
4. Hot sparks or metal can lodge in rolled up sleeves, 8. Put on dry, hole-free gloves before turning on the power.
trouser cuffs, or pockets. Sleeves and collars should be 9. Turn off the power before removing your gloves.
kept buttoned, and open pockets eliminated from the 10. Refer to ANSI/ASC Standard Z49.1 (listed on next page)
front of clothing for specific grounding recommendations. Do not mistake
5. Protect other personnel from arc rays and hot sparks with the work lead for a ground cable.
a suitable non-flammable partition or curtains.
6. Use goggles over safety glasses when chipping slag or ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS — May
grinding. Chipped slag may be hot and can fly far. be dangerous. Electric current flowing
Bystanders should also wear goggles over safety glasses. through any conductor causes localized
Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF). Weld-
FIRES AND EXPLOSIONS -- Heat from
ing and cutting current creates EMF around
flames and arcs can start fires. Hot slag
welding cables and welding machines.
or sparks can also cause fires and ex-
Therefore:
plosions. Therefore:
1. Welders having pacemakers should consult their physi-
1. Remove all combustible materials well away from the
cian before welding. EMF may interfere with some pace-
work area or cover the materials with a protective non-
flammable covering. Combustible materials include wood, makers.
cloth, sawdust, liquid and gas fuels, solvents, paints and 2. Exposure to EMF may have other health effects which are
coatings, paper, etc. unknown.
2. Hot sparks or hot metal can fall through cracks or crevices 3. Welders should use the following procedures to minimize
in floors or wall openings and cause a hidden smoldering exposure to EMF:
fire or fires on the floor below. Make certain that such A. Route the electrode and work cables together. Secure
openings are protected from hot sparks and metal.“ them with tape when possible.
3. Do not weld, cut or perform other hot work until the B. Never coil the torch or work cable around your body.
workpiece has been completely cleaned so that there are C. Do not place your body between the torch and work
no substances on the workpiece which might produce cables. Route cables on the same side of your body.
flammable or toxic vapors. Do not do hot work on closed D. Connect the work cable to the workpiece as close as
containers. They may explode.
possible to the area being welded.
4. Have fire extinguishing equipment handy for instant use,
such as a garden hose, water pail, sand bucket, or E. Keep welding power source and cables as far away from
portable fire extinguisher. Be sure you are trained in its your body as possible.
use.
4 11/95
FUMES AND GASES -- Fumes and 2. Before performing any maintenance work inside a power
gases, can cause discomfort or harm, source, disconnect the power source from the incoming
particularly in confined spaces. Do electrical power.
not breathe fumes and gases. Shield- 3. Maintain cables, grounding wire, connections, power cord,
ing gases can cause asphyxiation. and power supply in safe working order. Do not operate
Therefore: any equipment in faulty condition.
4. Do not abuse any equipment or accessories. Keep
1. Always provide adequate ventilation in the work area by equipment away from heat sources such as furnaces, wet
natural or mechanical means. Do not weld, cut, or gouge conditions such as water puddles, oil or grease, corrosive
on materials such as galvanized steel, stainless steel, atmospheres and inclement weather.
copper, zinc, lead, beryllium, or cadmium unless positive 5. Keep all safety devices and cabinet covers in position and
mechanical ventilation is provided. Do not breathe fumes in good repair.
from these materials. 6. Use equipment only for its intended purpose. Do not
2. Do not operate near degreasing and spraying operations. modify it in any manner.
The heat or arc rays can react with chlorinated hydrocar-
bon vapors to form phosgene, a highly toxic gas, and ADDITIONAL SAFETY INFORMATION -- For more infor-
other irritant gases. mation on safe practices for electric arc welding and
3. If you develop momentary eye, nose, or throat irritation cutting equipment, ask your supplier for a
while operating, this is an indication that ventilation is not copy of "Precautions and Safe Practices for
adequate. Stop work and take necessary steps to im- Arc Welding, Cutting and Gouging", Form
prove ventilation in the work area. Do not continue to 52-529.
operate if physical discomfort persists.
4. Refer to ANSI/ASC Standard Z49.1 (see listing below) for The following publications, which are available from the
specific ventilation recommendations. American Welding Society, 550 N.W. LeJuene Road, Miami,
FL 33126, are recommended to you:
1. ANSI/ASC Z49.1 - "Safety in Welding and Cutting"
CYLINDER HANDLING -- Cylinders, if 2. AWS C5.1 - "Recommended Practices for Plasma Arc
mishandled, can rupture and violently Welding"
release gas. Sudden rupture of cylin- 3. AWS C5.2 - "Recommended Practices for Plasma Arc
der, valve, or relief device can injure or Cutting"
kill. Therefore: 4. AWS C5.3 - "Recommended Practices for Air Carbon Arc
Gouging and Cutting"
1. Use the proper gas for the process and use the proper 5. AWS C5.5 - "Recommended Practices for Gas Tungsten
pressure reducing regulator designed to operate from the Arc Welding“
compressed gas cylinder. Do not use adaptors. Maintain 6. AWS C5.6 - "Recommended Practices for Gas Metal Arc
hoses and fittings in good condition. Follow manufacturer's Welding"“
operating instructions for mounting regulator to a com- 7. AWS SP - "Safe Practices" - Reprint, Welding Handbook.
pressed gas cylinder. 8. ANSI/AWS F4.1, "Recommended Safe Practices for Weld-
2. Always secure cylinders in an upright position by chain or ing and Cutting of Containers That Have Held Hazardous
strap to suitable hand trucks, undercarriages, benches, Substances."
walls, post, or racks. Never secure cylinders to work
tables or fixtures where they may become part of an This symbol appearing throughout this manual means Atten-
electrical circuit. tion! Be Alert! Your safety is involved.
3. When not in use, keep cylinder valves closed. Have valve
protection cap in place if regulator is not connected.
Secure and move cylinders by using suitable hand trucks. The following definitions apply to DANGER,
Avoid rough handling of cylinders. WARNING, CAUTION found throughout this
4. Locate cylinders away from heat, sparks, and flames. manual:
Never strike an arc on a cylinder.
5. For additional information, refer to CGA Standard P-1,
"Precautions for Safe Handling of Compressed Gases in
Cylinders", which is available from Compressed Gas Used to call attention to immediate haz-
Association, 1235 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, ards which, if not avoided, will result in
VA 22202. immediate, serious personal injury or loss
of life.
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE -- Faulty or im-
properly maintained equipment can cause Used to call attention to potential haz-
injury or death. Therefore: ards which could result in personal injury
or loss of life.
1. Always have qualified personnel perform the installation, Used to call attention to hazards which
troubleshooting, and maintenance work. Do not perform could result in minor personal injury.
any electrical work unless you are qualified to perform
such work.
5
II. INTRODUCTION l One (1), Migmaster 250 Power Supply/Wire Feeder
equipped with a dual-groove feed roll (for .035/.045 wire),
2.1 GENERAL a 6'-0" ft. primary input power cable and plug (plug is
installed for 208/230-V. units only), an input power recep-
This manual has been prepared especially for use in tacle rated @ 50A./250-V. (packed loose for 208/230-V.
familiarizing personnel with the design, installation, op- input packages only), 10-ft. work cable w/clamp, a 6'-0"
eration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of this equip- shielding gas supply hose w/fittings and running gear w/
ment. All information presented here in should be given gas (cylinder) support, as follows:
careful consideration to assure optimum performance of
this equipment. -- Migmaster 250 for 208/230-Volt input .... P/N 32851
-- Migmaster 250 for 208/230/380/400/460/575-Volt
2.2 RECEIVING-HANDLING input ....................................................... P/N 32852
Prior to installing this equipment, clean all packing mate- l One (1), Migmaster 250 Kit as follows:
rial from around the unit and carefully inspect for any -- 12-ft. Kit ................................................. P/N 32993
damage that may have occurred during shipment. Any Includes:
claims for loss or damage that may have occurred in MT-200cc, ready-to-weld, 12-ft. lg. torch
transit must be filed by the purchaser with the carrier. A for .035/.045 wire ....................................... P/N 21116
copy of the bill of lading and freight bill will be furnished R-33-FM-580 Regulator, (F-15-173) ........... P/N 21557
by the carrier on request if occasion to file claim arises. Mig Welding Process Handbook .............. P/N 791F18
When requesting information concerning this equipment, -- 15-ft. Kit ................................................. P/N 32994
it is essential that Part, Serial and Model Numbers of the Includes same accessories as 12-ft. Kit except for torch,
equipment be supplied. which is:
MT-200cc, 15-ft. lg. for .035/.045 wire, ....... P/N 21117
2.3 DESCRIPTION
2.3.2 POWER SUPPLY
The Migmaster 250 is a portable Welding System de-
signed for fine wire, (0.023, 0.030, 0.035 and 0.045 in.) The power supply consists of a tapped single phase
welding using the short arc method, as well as for spray transformer, tap selection switches, secondary contactor,
arc aluminum, short arc and spray arc stainless steel and single phase full wave rectifier, stabilizing reactor, slope
spray arc cored wires. It incorporates a running gear with resistor, filtering capacitors and internal output connec-
provisions for one gas cylinder, and a ST-23A spool-on- tions for polarity reversal.
gun control.
2.3.3 WIRE FEEDER
2.3.1 AVAILABLE PACKAGES AND CONTENTS
The wire feeder pushes 0.023, 0.030, 0.035 and 0.045 in.
The following Migmaster 250 “Consisting of” Packages wire at speeds up to 650 IPM. Dynamic braking prevents
are available: excessive wire overrun. A double grooved drive roll
(0.035 and 0.045 in.) provides a convenient means of
MM-250 for 208/230-V. Input w/12-ft. Kit . P/N 604560 changing the setup for either wire size.
MM-250 for 208/230-V. Input w/15-ft. Kit . P/N 604561
MM-250 for 208/230/380/400/460/575-V. Input w/12-ft. Kit The wire feeder is built into the power supply cabinet, and
.............................................................. P/N 604563 is housed in a compartment separated from the welding
MM-250 for 208/230/380/400/460/575-V. Input w/15-ft. Kit machine components. Machine ventilation is not drawn
.............................................................. P/N 604570 through this compartment, thus helping to keep the wire
and feeding mechanism clean.
Depending on the “primary input voltage” of the MM-250,
and the “torch length”, each package includes the follow-
ing:
6
TABLE 1. SPECIFICATIONS
FEEDER
MT-200cc TORCH
Cooling Air
Gooseneck Angle 45 degrees
Rated 60% Duty Cycle
(DCRP) Amps: 200 w/Argon Mixtures, 300 w/CO 2
PHYSICAL
The lightweight air cooled welding gun included in se- The Migmaster 250 is equipped with a running gear w/
lected systems is supplied complete and ready to weld swiveled front wheels and a gas cylinder support. The
0.035 in. steel wire. It is built with a one piece service rear wheels are packed loose for shipping, but are easily
conduit and includes a 45 degree gooseneck. Changing installed, see Section 3.8.
the contact tip to 0.045 in. allows the use of the larger
wire. 2.4 OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
7
If a Spotwelding operation is to be used, it is recom- thirty (30) foot service lines; one is a control cable with
mended that you also order a #12S Spotweld Nozzle, amphenol plug, and the other is a gas and power cable
P/N 999625. with a screw-on connector. For installation and opera-
tion, see Section 4.1.7 and for detailed instruction book-
2.4.2 DIGITAL VOLT/AMMETER MODULE, P/N 32857. let refer to F-14-353.
The Migmaster 250 unit is equipped with a built-in control No. 8 Nozzle (1/2" I.D.) ........................... P/N 999471
for the ST-23A Spool-On-Gun welding torch. The ST- No. 10 Nozzle (5/8" I.D.) ......................... P/N 999472
23A is a high performance, 250 ampere continuous duty No. 12 Nozzle (3/4" I.D.) ......................... P/N 999473
spool-on-gun torch designed for the mig welding pro- No. 12 Spot Nozzle (3/4" I.D.) ................ P/N 999625
cess. It is completely portable (up to 30-ft.), air-cooled
and hand operated, and weighs less than three (3) 2.4.5 TORCH/WIRE FEED ACCESSORIES -- See
pounds which allows for great maneuverability and Tables 2.4.5.1 and 2.4.5.2.
operator convenience. The gun is equipped with two-
8
2.5 SAFETY
32 ¼" Overall
The symbol which precedes safety notes appear-
ing throughout this manual means “Attention! Be Alert!
Your safety is involved.” The definitions relating to the
DANGER, WARNING and CAUTION safety notations
are described at the end of the Safety Section in the front
of this manual -- read them and their specific text
references carefully.
ˆ
III. INSTALLATION
ˆ
welding machine, if the unit is to provide dependable
40"
‡
service and remain relatively maintenance free. 191/2"
‡
ˆ
A proper installation site permits freedom of air move-
ment into and out of the welding machine, and also least
subjects the unit to dust, dirt, moisture, and corrosive Figure 3.1 Dimensional Drawing
vapors. A minimum of 18 inches (46 cm) unrestricted
space must be maintained between the welding ma- 3.2 ELECTRICAL INPUT CONNECTIONS
chine side and rear panels and the nearest obstruction.
9
A. Input Electrical Requirements TABLE 3.1 Input Conductor and Fuse Size
MIGMASTER
SYSTEM
CONNECTS HERE
Figure 3.2 A Figure 3.2 B Figure 3.2 C Figure 3.2 D
Figure 3.2 - Primary Connection
10
When changing the input voltage connections, the
unused lead must be insulated and positioned to
prevent contact with any other internal components
of the machine or the machine side panel. The clear-
ance between the unused lead and other compo-
nents must be at least one inch (see Fig. 3.3B for
illustration of the proper position). FAILURE TO
INSULATE AND POSITION THIS LEAD PROPERLY
WILL CAUSE A SERIOUS SHOCK HAZARD.
After the panel is removed, locate the 208 Vac lead (Fig.
3.3B) and cut the tie-wrap to remove the insulation
sleeving (on early models this lead may have been
wrapped with black electrical tape). Open the insulating
cover around the power switch (Fig. 3.3C.) to expose the
terminals and disconnect the 230 Vac lead from the top
of the switch as shown in Fig. 3.3A. Insulate the 230 Vac
lead that was removed from the power switch with
sleeving or approved electrical tape and re-position to a
safe area beside the transformer (see Fig. 3.3B), leaving
a minimum of one inch clearance from other compo-
nents and the side panel.
After the panel is removed, locate the 230 Vac lead (Fig. Fig. 3.3C - Power Switch Connection
3.3B) and cut the tie-wrap to remove the insulation
sleeving (on early models this lead may have been
11
wrapped with black electrical tape). Open the insulating E. Reconnecting from 575 VAC Input
cover around the power switch (Fig. 3.3C.) to expose the
terminals and disconnect the 208 Vac lead from the top Figure 3.3.1 shows you how to reconnect the "multi-
of the switch as shown in Fig. 3.3A. Insulate the 208 Vac voltage" model from a 575-volt input to any of the
lead that was removed from the power switch with remaining available voltage inputs 200 or 380 or 400 or
sleeving or approved electrical tape and re-position to a 460-volts. These connections are made by unscrewing
safe area beside the transformer (see Fig. 3.3B), leaving the right side panel below the wire feeding compartment,
a minimum of one inch clearance from other components and locating the primary voltage changeover terminal
and the side panel. board handing in the center of the lower compartment.
This board contains copper links which must be recon-
Connect the proper voltage (208 Vac or 230 Vac) tap to nected to match the silk-screened voltage designations
the power switch and tighten securely. Check all other for the input you plan to use (it comes factory-connected
leads connected to the power switch for tightness and for a 575-volt input), see Figure 3.3.1.
clearance from internal components before securing the
insulating cover around the power switch. Replace the 3.3 SECONDARY OUTPUT CONNECTIONS
side panel.
The Migmaster 250 Welding System is completely self-
contained so that the front panel torch fittings (Euro-type
MT and Spool gun) are internally connected to the
welding polarity (D.C. Reverse or D.C. Straight) via the
secondary output terminals located inside the wire feed-
ing compartment (see Fig. 4.1). The machine comes set
up for D.C.R.P. welding as described in Section 4.1.3.
12
3.5.2 WELDING WIRE SPOOL 3.5.4 BRAKE DRAG ADJUSTMENT
Brake disc friction should provide enough drag to keep
the wire spool or core from spinning freely after wire feed
stops. If adjustment is required, turn adjusting screw
As with any work area, make sure safety glasses clockwise to increase drag, counterclockwise to de-
with side shields are worn when handling or chang- crease it. Drag should be just low enough to limit wire
ing wire or clipping wire off at the spool or at the end overrun.
of the torch. Hold onto the wire coming off the spool
with one hand before clipping. Serious eye injury 3.6 CONNECTION OF SHIELDING GAS SUPPLY
can result due to the springiness of the wire which The R-33-FM-580 Regulator-Flowmeter is designed for
can quickly unravel, or a cut wire end which may use with an argon or argon-mix cylinder of shielding gas.
shoot across the room. It is adjustable for delivering up to 50 cfh through the
Install a spool of welding wire on the hub as follows: torch. To set up the system do the following:
C. Feed the wire from the spool through the inlet CYLINDER
VALVE
guide, across the drive roll groove and into gun CYLINDER
outlet guide. PRESSURE
GAUGE
D. Lower pressure roll assembly and secure. Check g. Slowly open the cylinder valve a fraction of a turn.
that the gears mesh. Feed wire through to gun tip When the regulator pressure gauge pointer stops
with gun trigger (power ON). moving, open the cylinder valve fully.
13
Welding cables should be kept as short as possible and
be of adequate current carrying capacity. Resistance of
Never stand directly in front of or behind the regula- the welding cables and connections causes a voltage
tor when opening the cylinder valve. Always stand drop which is added to the voltage drop of the arc.
to one side. Excessive cable resistance may result in a reduction of
the maximum usable current output of the equipment.
h. Using a leak test solution, such as P/N 998771 (8
oz. container) or soapy water, test for leakage The proper operation of this equipment is to a large
about the cylinder valve stem, the regulator inlet extent dependent on the use of welding cables and
connection, and the hose connections at the regu- connections which are in good condition and of adequate
lator and at the Migmaster 250 for leakage. Correct size.
any leaks before starting work.
3.8 ASSEMBLE REAR WHEELS
i. If work is to be stopped for a half-hour or more, or
the regulator is to be removed from the cylinder, The unit's running board is factory assembled except for
shut down the regulator as follows: the rear wheels which are packed loose in the shipping
carton. The rear gear consists of 2-wheels, 4-washers,
a. Close the cylinder valve. 2-cotter pins, and an axle. To install the gear, do the
following:
b. Release gas from the regulator by closing the
torch trigger lever. a. Insert the axle through the holes provided at the
rear of the gear.
c. When pressure gauge drops to zero, the regu-
lator is de-pressurized and shutdown. b. Place a washer onto each end of the axle, then slip
on the wheels, then add another washer to the
j. Each regulator is equipped with a porous metal outside of each wheel, and secure the whole as-
inlet filter, P/N 71lZ33, pressed into the regulator sembly by inserting a pin in each end of the axle.
inlet nipple. No. regulator should be connected to
a cylinder or station valve unless it contains this c. Remove the existing shipping supports by un-
filter. You can replace the filter if you have reason screwing from chassis.
to do so. To remove a filter refer to the regulator
instruction literature for details. 3.9 INSTALLING OPTIONAL SPOT/STITCH/ANTI-
STICK MODULE
k. Regulators in need of repair should be returned to
your Welding Equipment distributor or to an autho- a. Remove lower blank-cover plate from upper-right
rized Remanufacturing Center. front panel of power supply -- save the four mount-
ing screws.
14
b. Locate the harness-connected 10-pin plastic plug, A. Gun trigger circuit 24 volts AC.
PL1, inside the mounting cavity. This plug does
not have a jumper plug connected to it. Wire feeder circuit 24 volts DC.
c. Connect the 10-pin plug into the matching recep- B. Main welding secondary circuit. Depending upon
tacle on the rear of the optional meter module. the tap switch position, various secondary volt-
ages can be obtained. Then rectified, open circuit
d. Install the meter module in place of the blank- voltages can be selected between 18 and 56 volts
panel removed in Step a., using the same four DC when the secondary contactor is energized.
screws that you saved.
4.1.2 VOLTAGE CONTROL (Coarse Range Selector
and Fine Adjustment Range Selector)
IV. OPERATION
Voltage control is by means of two high current tap
switches which connect the rectifier bridge to various
4.1 CONTROLS (See Figure 4.1)
secondary taps.
4.1.1 POWER SWITCH
The COARSE VOLTAGE RANGE Selector is a three-
position switch, LOW/MED/HIGH, by which the operator
A line toggle switch on the front panel energizes the
selects the approximate range of voltage (or heat, that
primary of the main transformer. This switch also turns on
determines the arc length) to be applied to the weld. It is
the fan, which is connected across a portion of the
a coarse selection control and is used in conjunction with
primary winding.
the Fine Voltage Adjustment selector following. It must
not be switched under load.
Two transformer secondary windings also become ener-
gized:
4.2.3
4.1.5 4.2.2 Secondary Output Terminals
2.4.2 for Welding Polarity Change-
over, see 4.1.3.
10A. Fuse 4.1.6
Work
Cable
4.1.1
15
The FINE VOLTAGE ADJUSTMENT Selector is an 4.1.5 WIRE FEED SPEED CONTROL
eight-position switch by which the operator selects the
exact amount of arc voltage (or heat) to be applied to the Wire feed speed is controlled by the wire speed potenti-
weld (within the coarse range selected above). This ometer knob on the front panel. The solid state control
allows you to fine-tune the voltage required; the higher allows for infinitely variable speeds up to 650 IPM.
the number selected (1-8), the hotter the weld. The Fine
Voltage Selector switch also has an "open" detent at the This wire speed pot is used to set the speed at which the
six o'clock position. Placing the switch in this position welding wire is fed out from the torch and hence the
allows operation of the torch trigger to feed electrode welding amperage. The panel-face numbers on the dial
wire without the wire being electircally "hot". This switch (0-10) are used for reference and do not directly indicate
also, must not be switched under load. wire feed speed; the higher the number, the faster the
speed.
CAUTION: These tap switches carry several hundred 4.1.6 STD./SPOOL GUN SELECTOR
amperes, and must not be switched under
load, as this will cause the contacts of the This two-position toggle switch is located inside the unit
switches to arc. on the mid-wall of the wire feeding compartment and is
labeled Standard and Spool Gun. It is used to select
4.1.3 SECONDARY WELDING CONNECTIONS standard metal inert gas welding (MIG) with the MT-
200CC, or welding with the ST-23A (spool-on-gun) torch.
The secondary contactor, with parallel poles, is used to
make and break the circuit between the transformer 4.2 PROCESS SETUP
secondary and the rectifier. This contactor is turned on
and off when the torch trigger (in the 24 volt circuit) is 4.2.1 STANDARD MIG SEAM WELDING W/MT-200CC
operated.
Refer to Sections 4.3.1, 4.3.2, 4.3.3, 4.3.4, and Table
The secondary output welding terminals, POS.(+) and 4.3.3.
NEG(-), are located in the right side wire feeding com-
partment and are used to set the welding polarity 4.2.2 ST-23A SPOOL-ON-GUN CONTROL CONNEC-
(D.C.R.P. or D.C.S.P.) in which the machine will operate TION/OPERATION
(see Fig. 4.1). As shipped from the factory, the 250 is set
up to operate in D.C.R.P. (TORCH fitting is connected The Migmaster 250 is equipped with a built-in control for
to Positive, and WORK cable/clamp is connected to the Spool Gun which operates via the amphenol control
Negative output). To weld using D.C.S.P., simply mount receptacle and a screw adaptor that provides Gas and
the WORK cable to the Positive output and the TORCH Power. The ST-23A Torch (see Section 2.4.3) has a
fitting cable to the Negative output terminal. amphenol-plug control cable connection, and a gas/
power cable, see Figure 4.2.2.
4.1.4 CONTACTOR CONTROL
To operate the unit with the ST-23A Torch connected, do
Refer to the schematic diagrams. Note that the coil of the following (refer to Fig. 4.2.2):
the 24 volt contactor is activated with the torch trigger
and is energized when the trigger is pulled. The gas A. Place the STD./Spool Gun selector toggle switch
solenoid is in parallel with the contactor coil and is (4.1.6) in the 250 to its Spool Gun position.
energized at the same time.
B. Connect the ST-23A control cable amphenol to the
When the trigger switch is released, the contactor drops receptacle labeled CONTROL on the 250s front
out and disconnects the load. panel.
D. Connect the 250s WORK cable to the workpiece. weld from the time the torch trigger is released until the
main contactor is deenergized. This delay allows the
E. Set Migmaster 250 voltage tap switches to welding wire to burn back, away from the work, so it
RANGE and FINE ADJUSTMENT VOLTAGE set- wont stick in the weld puddle.
tings desir- ed.
This delay time, controlled by the anti-stick potentiom-
F. Turn on the Migmaster 250s power switch and eter, is variable from approximately 0.05 seconds to 0.5
begin seam mig welding. seconds. The required delay time generally depends on
the WIRE SPEED Adjustment setting on the front panel
If the optional Spot/Stitch/Anti-Stick control module is - the higher the setting, the faster wire will feed into the
installed, the ST-23A gun may be operated using these weld, and the more delay time will be required.
optional features, see Section 4.2.3.
If, when using the Anti-Stick feature, the welding wire
4.2.3 OPTIONAL SPOT/STITCH/ANTI-STICK CON- tends to stick in the puddle at the end of a weld, the Anti-
TROL MODULE Stick time should be increased; if, on the other hand, the
wire burns back into the torch tip, the anti-stick time
This optional control module allows the operator to use should be decreased. Setting the anti-stick time to Min
the 250 for Spot or Stitch or Continuous welding opera- effectively cancels the anti-stick feature.
tions. It also includes an adjustable Anti-Stick feature to
select various burnback times to prevent wire from This Anti-Stick feature is available for all three welding
sticking in the puddle after a weld. modes - Continuous, Spot, and Stitch.
The module consists of three pots (one for Spot-Stitch 4.2.3.2 CONTINUOUS WELDING MODE OPERATION
Weld Time "ON", one for Stitch Weld Time "OFF", and
one for Anti-Stick Time modes) and one three-position A. Place the three-position toggle switch in Continu-
toggle switch to select the welding operation desired ous weld mode (center position) for mig seam
(Spot, Continuous or Stitch). For installation, see Section welding.
3.9; for operation, see following:
B. Set the Anti-Stick Time as required (see 4.2.3.1).
4.2.3.1 ANTI-STICK WELDING OPERATION
17
C. Set the coarse and fine Voltage control B. Be sure a standard nozzle (and not a spot weld
switches and wire speed pot to the desired settings nozzle) is installed on the torch.
and begin welding operation as described in Sec-
tions 4.3.2 and 4.3.3. C. Set the length of time the arc will be ON for each
sequence by adjusting the Spot-Stitch Weld Time
4.2.3.3 SPOT WELDING MODE OPERATION control on the power supplys front panel. This
timer has an approximate range of from 0.4 sec-
A. Place the three-position toggle switch in Spot onds at the minimum setting to 3.5 seconds at the
position. maximum setting. Set the length of time the arc will
be OFF for each sequence by adjusting the Stitch
B. Replace the standard nozzle with the No. 12 Spot Weld Time control on the front panel. This timer
weld Nozzle P/N 999625. has an approximate range of from 0.4 seconds at
the minimum setting to 3.5 seconds at the maxi-
C. Trim the welding wire back so the end is slightly mum setting.
inside the nozzle.
D. Set the coarse and fine voltage control switches
D. Set the coarse and fine voltage control switch- and wire speed as specified in Table 4.3 under
es, wire speed, and the Spot-Stitch Weld Time see Continuous Weld Conditions for:
Table 4.3, for the thickness of the metal being
welded and the diameter of the weld wire being i. The type weld being made (see diagrams to the
used. left of each column of figures).
i. Press the torch nozzle squarely on the top plate. iii. The gap (if any) between the pieces being weld-
Apply enough pressure to hold the two pieces of ed.
metal firmly together, so there is no loose play
between them. iv. The diameter of the welding wire being used.
18
4.3 OPERATING PROCEDURES
19
E. Never operate the equipment at currents greater b. Attempting to weld over grease or oil can cause
than the rated ampere capacity; overheating will weld defects.
occur.
c. Before welding on aluminum, be sure to clean
F. Never operate equipment in a damp or wet area surface thoroughly using a stainless steel brush.
without suitable insulation for protection against
shock. Keep hands, feet and clothing dry at all 4.3.3 SET-UP PROCEDURE
times.
A. Determine the material type, thickness and joint
G. Whenever the equipment is left unattended, turn configuration to be welded from Table 4.3 and use
all control and power supply switches and gas the recommendations to set the following:
supplies OFF and open the main line switch.
a. Coarse Voltage Range, LOW/MED/HIGH.
H. Wear dark substantial clothing to protect exposed
skin from arcburn, sparks and flying hot metal. b. Fine Arc Voltage Setting, 1 thru 8 (the higher the
number, the hotter the weld).
I. Turn off welding power before adjusting or replac-
ing electrodes. c. Wire Speed setting, 0 thru 10 (the higher the
number, the faster the speed).
4.3.2 PRE-WELD REQUIREMENTS D. Make sure the MT-200CC torch fitting and the
Work cable are connected to the proper output
Before welding commences, with all power OFF, check terminals (inside unit) for the polarity desired.
the following:
F. The wire feeding compartment cover is closed A. Turn Power switch (on unit) to ON position -- be
and secure. careful not to operate the torch switch.
G.Make sure that the metal to be welded is properly B. Before starting the weld, the welding wire should
prepared: extend about 1/2-inch beyond the end of the nozzle.
Adjust this length by either clipping off the end of the
a. Remove loose surface rust, scale or paint with wire with insulated cutters or by using the torch
wire brush or sander. switch.
20
up or down, it is very important to keep the arc on the
leading edge of the puddle to ensure complete pene-
Power supply contactor becomes energized the mo- tration.
ment the torch trigger is depressed. Arcing can
occur if the wire is brought to a ground. Keep the G. Some welders who are accustomed to welding with
torch away from ground until welding is to begin. stick electrodes may tend to push the torch into the
weld. This is neither necessary nor desirable, since
C. To start the weld, hold the torch so the welding wire is the wire electrode is being mechanically fed into the
approximately 1/4-in. from the work, then press the weld.
torch trigger.
Please note that the Wire Speed control can be
D. The welding wire should be pointed into the joint at adjusted for the gauge of metal to be welded. How-
angles of approximately 450 for fillet welds, and ever, the Coarse Voltage Range and Fine Voltage
approxmately 900 for butt welds, (Fig 4.3.4.1). setting must not be switched while welding.
E. The torch angle relative to the length of the weld should H. To stop the weld, release the trigger and pull the torch
be approximately 100 from the vertical (Fig. 4.3.4.2). from the work. When leaving equipment unattended,
always shut OFF and disconnect all input power and
F. When welding in the vertical position, traveling either shut off shielding gas at source.
1 2 3 4 6 1 4
.023" LOW LOW LOW LOW LOW MED MED
1.2 1.3 2.5 3 4.3 6.5 10
4 4 7 7 8 2 5 6 7 4
.030" LOW LOW LOW LOW LOW MED MED MED MED HIGH
3 3.5 4 4.5 5 5.5 6 6.5 6.8 8.5
3 4 6 6 1 2 5 5 6 6
.035" LOW LOW LOW LOW MED MED MED MED MED MED
1.8 2 3 3.8 4 4.5 5.5 5.5 6 6
4 5 6 6 3 8 8 2 2
.045" LOW LOW LOW LOW MED MED MED HIGH HIGH
1.8 2 2 2.8 3 4 4 4.2 4.2
Settings were developed using 75% argon - 25% carbon dioxide shielding gas.
For 100% carbon dioxide shielding gas, add 2 to the arc voltage setting shown above.
Settings were developed using 98% argon - 2% oxygen shielding gas.
This equipment is provided with a thermostat (OL) in the 5.2 INSPECTION AND SERVICE
transformer (T1) windings which will open and prevent
the contactor (CON) from closing if the transformer Keep Equipment in clean and safe operating condition
windings are overheated. If the thermostat opens, allow free of oil, grease, and (in electrical parts) liquid and
the equipment to idle with fan running for approximately metallic particles which can cause short-circuits.
15-min. before attempting to weld again.
Regularly check cylinder valves, regulators, hoses, and
V. SERVICE gas connections for leaks with soap solution.
5.1 MAINTENANCE Check for and tighten loose hardware including electrical
connection. Loose power connections overheat during
welding.
All models are equipped with an exhaust fan and rely on A. With all power controls ON and other operating
forced draft for adequate cooling for high duty cycles and controls at required settings, visually check all
overloads. Lubricate the fan motor with a few drops of power cables and connections for evidence of
SAE-20 non-detergent oil every three months. overheating or sparking.
5.2.1.3 TRANSFORMER
23
5.3.1 IF MOTOR DOES NOT RUN: General Replacement
A. Check for blown fuse. If blown, check that motor is The exploded views in the Parts Section indicate gener-
not binding before replacing fuse. ally, in numbered parts sequence, the disassembly of the
wire drive and feeder parts.
B. Check for continuity across speed potentiometer
(POT) and wiper contact. Voltage from center tap Reassemble in reverse order.
to MIN end should vary from 0 to 5.4 VDC as pot-
entiometer is rotated clockwise. 5.3.3 SOLENOID VALVE REPLACEMENT
C. Check wiring for continuity. Then turn power ON When replacing the gas solenoid valve, the inlet (with the
and check for 30 volts d.c. across input terminals word IN) must face the rear of the Unit.
8 and 9 on the feeder printed circuit board connec-
tor (PL1).
1. No weld or control power. a. Primary input power not available. a. Check for Voltage at primary input.
b. Faulty connection, primary input b. Repair or replace cable or switch
cable, or power switch (TGS1) (TGS1) as necessary.
c. Blown line fuse. c. Replace fuse. If it blows again,
contact L-TEC representative.
2. No welding power. a. Thermostat has opened. a. Wait 15 minutes with fan running. If
still no power, contact L-TEC repre-
sentative.
b. Shorted diode in main rectifier. b. Check diodes and replace if reqd.
c. Open in wiring c. Check all wiring.
3. Fan does not run. a. See Weld Condition 1. a. Repair or replace cable or switch
as necessary.
b. Defective fan motor (MTR1) b. Replace fan motor (MTR1).
24
WELD CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE REMEDY
6. Stringy irregular bead, a. Torch moved too fast. a. Move Torch slower along seams.
poor penetration. b. Controls are not set properly for b. Reset control properly.
metal gauge thickness.
c. Wrong polarity. c. Check for correct polarity.
7. Bead not centered. a. Nozzle not aligned. a. Move Torch nozzle parallel to
and centered over seam.
8. Bead too large. a. Torch moved too slowly. a. Move Torch faster along seam.
10.Shield gas flow low or a. Cylinder valve closed. a. Turn off regulator, slowly open
stopped valve, until regulator reaches
35 c.f.h. pressure.
b. Cylinder empty. b. Replace if gauge so indicates.
c. Faulty regulator or adaptor. c. Check flow at outlet; replace
faulty item.
d. Faulty gas solenoid valve. d. Replace solenoid valve.
11.Wire stubs on work a. Controls not set properly for a. Reset controls properly.
while welding. metal gauge, thickness.
12.Wire burns back into a. Contact tip loose. a. Firmly tighten with pliers.
contact tip. b. Tip too close to work. b. Maintain 1/4" (.6 cm) wire
protrusion; hold Torch further
from work.
c. Wire feed slipping. c. Increase pressure on pressure
roll by adjusting pressure knob.
d. Contact tip damaged. d. Trim back tip 1/16" (1.6 cm) max.
Replace if still faulty.
e. Voltage setting too high. e. Adjust setting.
f. Drive or pressure roll dirty or worn. f. Clean rolls or replace.
13.Wire does not feed; motor a. Kink, etc. in wire, or wire bound a. Straighten; or feed wire until
running (drive roll turns). on reel. clear and cut off.
b. Wire freezing to contact tip b. Free freeze, or remove contact
(burnback). tip feed wire until clear cut end free,
and replace tip.
c. Clogged liner. c. Replace liner.
25
WELD CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE REMEDY
14.Wire does not feed; a. Motor a. With wire speed dial on 10,
motor NOT running press trigger. If voltage
(drive roll does not turn). appears across motor leads
but motor does not run, check
motor gears and commutator
areas.
b.Power switch TGS1 and fuses. b. With TGS1 ON, if voltage
across terminal 1 and 3 is 24 VAC,
switch and fuses are good.
c. Speed Potentiometer (POT). c. Check for 1K ohms across
POT outside terminals.
d. Defective speed control board. d. Check board voltages
(Para 5.3.1 b. and c.)
15.Wire feed does not stop. a. Torch trigger switch. a. Check continuity of Torch trigger
circuit; check to see if trigger lever
is stuck in ON position.
b. CR1 b. Check for proper action.
16.Gas continues to flow a. Gas solenoid valve stuck open. a. Tap solenoid or click on and off
after trigger release. to clear valve.
26
D-32860
27
*NOTE: Switch position mumbers refer to numbers on back of switch
WORK
CONNECTION NOTE: Recent modifications to the power source may not be reflected in this schematic. For up-to-date
information on your model, refer to the schematic on the inside cover of the power source or
contact the factory.
28
WORK
CONNECTION
*NOTE: Switch position numbers refer to numbers on back of switch
NOTE: Recent modifications to the power source may not be reflected in this schematic. For up-to-date information on your
model, refer to the schematic on the inside cover of the power source or contact the factory.
29
Figure 5.3 - Wilring Migmaster 250 for 208/230 V. Model
D-33311
30
Figure 5.4 - Wiring Migmaster 250 for 208/230/380/400/460/575 V. Model
20,
18 16
19 17 14
13
24
21
FAN/CAPACITOR
BANK ASSEMBLY
See Figure 6.4
} 12
1 11 6, 22, 8 10
4 5,
25 7 23
Capacitor C9-11 and R5 resistor were added 4/93 (starting with Serial No. B93H36548) to provide greater
relay protection.
NOTE: If contactor, 13734781, life is short due to high current, repetitive welding, replace with 60 amp
contactor, 952173.
31
7
11, 12
8 6
21, 22
13,
23, 24
14
5
18, 19
2
15 3
20
10
16, 17
* Photo shows optional Digital Volt/Ammeter Module, P/N 32857, and Spot/Stitch/Anti-Stick Control Module, P/N 32858.
• Was 97W63, changed to 950769, 6/95.
32
5 9, 10 3 2
7,
6
11
19
14
1
18
20
17
15
16
33
5 4, 3 6
10, 9
8
9 4
REF. 7 6 5
1 2 3
34
Figure 6-6. 2-Roll Drive Stand
35
ESAB Welding & Cutting Products, Florence, SC Welding Equipment
COMMUNICATIONS GUIDE - CUSTOMER SERVICES
F-15-087-E 8/97 5M