Separate or Multi-Purpose Units

[Hamstn]

I would like input on either purchasing a Multi-Purpose Unit (Weld all 200/250pi) or going with a Tig (ArcMate 200acdc) and a Plasma (Force Cut 60I). Listed price is not a big difference. Unless I am missing some features or differences I just think separates would be better overall, not stuffing two units into one. Also would not have to switch between gas and air and if the need arose two persons could be working at the same time, but not something that happens here much.

I am looking at this from a person is is more then just a hobbiest/home workshop but not industrial but somewhere in between.

not sure what the deal is with the changing of fonts

[Gadget]

If you have the space and money separate units may be a good choice. As you said, setup time would be less with dedicated machines. On the other hand, each function on the MF machines are as good as the stand alone products.
For my shop I have a MF for my welding needs and a stand alone plasma for my CNC plasma table. I can be making CNC cuts at the same time I am welding if I want to.
Good luck with whatever decision you make.
Dan

[KHK]

I think it is more than room for the welder. You need room for the welding area. Work bench etc. Also you would need more electrical power for two machines. If all that was available I would go with two machines.

[weldingtwopotatoes]

The separate machines would be way better. Having both machines setup, ready to go and not having to switch between the two processes would really come in handy when working on a project.

[frijoli]

The separate machines would be way better. Having both machines setup, ready to go and not having to switch between the two processes would really come in handy when working on a project.

I will probably go with a MP unit and modify it to stay connected to both units so I don't have to disconnect all the time. I have a home shop, but I hate messing around with switching things.

Clay

[weldingtwopotatoes]

I will probably go with a MP unit and modify it to stay connected to both units so I don't have to disconnect all the time. I have a home shop, but I hate messing around with switching things.

Clay

It's easy to setup a three way valve or quick disconnects for switching between gas and air but you still have to disconnect your Tig torch or Arc stinger and connect the plasma torch or vis versa. It's not a big deal and I do it with my 520D but If I had an option of separate machines I'd take it.

[frijoli]

It's easy to setup a three way valve or quick disconnects for switching between gas and air but you still have to disconnect your Tig torch or Arc stinger and connect the plasma torch or vis versa. It's not a big deal and I do it with my 520D but If I had an option of separate machines I'd take it.

I was thinking of going one step further and adding another set of plugs for the Plasma and switching the gas and the electric without changing anything.

[arandall]

I was thinking of going one step further and adding another set of plugs for the Plasma and switching the gas and the electric without changing anything.

I'm working on it.


Cheers,
Art R.

[frijoli]

I'm working on it.


Cheers,
Art R.

EXCELLENT! Let me know if you need any assistance, advice, drawings.......

[arandall]

EXCELLENT! Let me know if you need any assistance, advice, drawings.......

I'll let you know. I have been working on it for a while, but my welder died, and it has slowed me down. And, as usual, I made it a little more complex than necessary.

Cheers,
Art R.