Clarke 80E Arc Welder

[spudkilla224]

Hello, I just purchased a Clarke 80E Arc Welder that is 90 amps Of power, and can weld up to 1/8" metal in a single pass. And now I want to build a simple gokart frame out of 1/2" black pipe. Will my welder work to build a gokart frame out fo 1/2" Black Pipe? And if i make multiple passes will my welder weld deeper?

Here is a link to what my welder is:

http://power-tools.hardwarestore.com/62-364-arc-welders/arc-welder-80e-110v-660845.aspx#features

 

[Kenny_McCormic]

Follow the duty cycle(very very important, not following duty cycle religiously will result in an expensive doorstop). Use the recommended rod sizes(1/16") and it should weld anything kart related fine in a single pass if you are any good at it. Heavier stuff can be welded by V grinding it and making multiple passes.

Why use pipe? Go to the metal shop and buy some square tubing, much stronger and probably cheaper. Also very easy to work with.

 

[modelengineer]

not following duty cycle religiously will result in an expensive doorstop

That hasn't been my experience, although I don't have very much experience to speak of . Almost all welders have a thermal cutout to stop the welder destroying itself. I hit the cutout just about every time I use the welder. It's 2 years old and working perfectly. It's a $99 AUD chinese made 140 amp arc/stick welder.
All that happens when you hit the thermal cutout is the buzzing of the transformer stops, the fan keeps going and the 'overload' or something light comes on.

 

[Kenny_McCormic]

Hitting the overload protector isnt THAT bad(still not a good idea), its the welding and unplugging/shutting down without giving cool down time that really kills em.

 

[modelengineer]

Ah I see. I'll make sure to leave it on with the fan for a while after welding.

 

[Kenny_McCormic]

I always let em run with the fan on for at least 10 minutes before shutting down.