22
NOTES:
Remember that these important terms refer to the same thing and are generally interchangeable:
Shielded Metal Arc Welding = SMAW= Stick Welding= MMA = Manual Metal Arc Welding
DCEP = Direct current, electrode positive = Reverse polarity = Positive po) = Torch in Positive
DCEN = Direct current, electrode negative (
-
) = Straight polarity = Negative polarity (
-
) = Torch in Negative
Stinger = Electrode holder = Stick Holder = Torch
Welding rod = Electrode = Stick
Arc force = Dig = Inductance = Arc response
Why doesn
’
t the PowerARC 300ST come with a power plug?
The PowerARC 300ST is both a single phase and three
phase machine. This means it can work in home shops and industrial factories with different power supplies. Single
phase welders in North America use only three wires for 240V operation with two 120V lines arranged out of phase
(measuring 240V between the hot legs and 120V to ground) with a third wire serving as a ground. No neutral is
needed. This differs from a range or dryer cord where a return path is needed for a 120V circuit that may be also
used in a range or dryer circuit. Wire colors used for a dryer or range connection do not match up to the standard
wire colors used in wiring a welder. In three phase, 4 wires are used, with 3 hot wires (again, out of phase with each
other) are used. These should measure a nominal 240V between any twp hot legs, though to ground measurements
on a hot leg will be less. Once again, only one wire is used for a ground. No neutral exists in a 3 phase circuit for a
welder either. Welding equipment that can operate on both single and three phase voltage do not have a
“
standard
”
plug that can be used for both single and three phase operation, so the unit must be wired specifically
for each phase. Therefore, when wiring for single phase, one wire will not be used. If using it for permanent single
phase operation, a separate, dedicated welder circuit is suggested. Wiring into existing range or dryer connections
is not recommended as these utilize a neutral wire and confusion over wire colors and numbers can be created
causing the welder to malfunction. The possible issues with wire confusion and mismatch require professional
oversight so always be sure to consult/hire a licensed electrician to comply with local codes and for wiring safety.
Do not connect unit to 460/480V 3 phase unless unit is special ordered for 460/480V use!
