Is it safe to weld steel bicycle frames with only a 110v welder like the Fronius Artis 210 (Previously Fronius TransTig 210)?
I’m using a 120/220 welder on a 120V 20A circuit and that’s been plenty for my practice. It hasn’t been a problem using it up to 80A or so. The rule of thumb is one amp per thou. I do plan to switch to a 220 circuit at some point.
My welder is a AHP AlphaTig 201. Sorry, I don’t know the one you are considering.
I haven’t TIG welded a frame yet, I’m just learning. The few frames that I’ve built have all been brazed.
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I picked up a multi-processor unit that runs on 110 and 220v. From my few attempts, you should be fine with 110v to weld typical bike frame materials. My unit doesn’t have provisions for a pedal to control the start/stop. it uses ‘lift to start’. This is not good for making bike frames or any fine TIG work. I bought it for MIG which it does very well but would have liked to learn TIG.
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You should be fine. Mine is 220V because I’m in UK, but bicycle tubing is thin, and you’re never going much above about 50A. I set mine to 80A and use the pedal, but never go full gas.
The accessories I strongly recommend for bicycle frame building are: a foot-pedal (this is basically a must), one of those super-flexy CK hoses with a No 9 torch, and a Furick Jazzy 10 cup.
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I have been welding bikes and other stuff with a Lincoln invertec on 110v for the past 20 years. Zero problems.
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