MIGs are whatever. They’re a way to stick shit together. We happen to have a very good (if not excellent) MIG and for that, we’re lucky. On the other hand, TIGs are for precision welding. Although the Eastwood unit hasn’t gotten BAD reviews except related to DOA stuff, it hasn’t exactly gotten glowing reviews in many cases either. After doing my research, I’m personally against the Eastwood.
I think we should invest in a high quality unit that has a solid warranty and parts availability. The hive has enough cashflow that even if an outright vote for a more expensive unit were to fail, I’m sure we could get funds matching or something along those lines. Interested parties could do a pledgie/fundme like is being done for the big laser and it would easily come together.
I don’t think a “traditional” transformer model like a Millermatic 250 or 300 would make sense for the hive. Although they typically have a lot more adjustability of waveform for welding than basic inverter models, they’re huge, heavy and inefficient compared to the newer MOSFET based inverter models. Efficiency, space/weight and price leave me still very much leaning towards a high quality inverter unit. The Millermatic 210 was my original choice and is still a strong one, although moderately expensive ($2700-3000) I need to investigate how much waveform manipulation is available on this unit. I’d want to investigate the Everlast PowerTig more. They make a 200A model as well as the 250A that Chris has and loves. Unless we’re doing tanks, 200A is probably plenty and considerably less $$$.
-D