1. Introduction and Overview
The Migatronic Focus STICK 161E PFC is an advanced inverter electrode welder designed for versatile use in assembly, maintenance, and workshop environments. It is ideal for welding steel and stainless steel, even outdoors on construction sites. Featuring a user-friendly one-button operation, it allows for easy adjustment of settings from 20 to 160 amperes. The unit also supports simple TIG welding with scratch ignition. Its Power Factor Correction (PFC) function ensures maximum energy utilization, enabling welding with long power cables or a generator as a power source, and providing approximately 25% higher welding current with only a 16 A fuse.
2. Safety Instructions
Always prioritize safety when operating welding equipment. Failure to follow safety precautions can result in serious injury or death.
- Eye and Face Protection: Always wear a welding helmet with appropriate shade lenses to protect against arc flash and sparks.
- Protective Clothing: Wear flame-resistant clothing, gloves, and sturdy footwear to protect against burns and electrical shock.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to remove welding fumes, which can be hazardous to your health. Work in a well-ventilated area or use fume extraction equipment.
- Fire Prevention: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Remove all flammable materials from the welding area. Sparks and hot slag can travel long distances.
- Electrical Shock: Do not touch live electrical parts. Ensure the welding machine is properly grounded. Inspect cables for damage before each use.
- Work Area: Keep the work area clean, dry, and free of clutter. Do not weld in damp or wet conditions.
- Cylinder Safety: If using gas cylinders for TIG welding, secure them properly and handle with care.
3. Package Contents
Upon unpacking, please verify that all the following items are included:
- Migatronic Focus STICK 161E PFC unit
- Electrode cable
- Ground cable
- Power plug
If any items are missing or damaged, please contact your dealer immediately.
4. Product Features
- Ideal for assembly, maintenance, and workshop applications.
- Capable of welding steel and stainless steel.
- Intuitive one-button operation for current adjustment (20-160 A).
- Supports simple TIG welding with scratch ignition.
- Equipped with Power Factor Correction (PFC) for efficient energy use, allowing operation with long power cables or generators.
- Flexible polarity options on the electrode holder for welding with both basic and rutile electrodes.
5. Setup
Follow these steps to set up your Migatronic Focus STICK 161E PFC welder:
- Placement: Place the welding machine on a stable, level, and non-flammable surface. Ensure adequate space around the unit for ventilation.
- Connect Ground Cable: Connect the ground cable to the negative (-) terminal on the front panel of the welder. Secure the ground clamp to the workpiece or welding table, ensuring good electrical contact.
- Connect Electrode Cable: Connect the electrode cable to the positive (+) terminal on the front panel. Insert the electrode into the electrode holder. For specific electrode types (basic/rutile), you may need to reverse polarity (connect electrode cable to negative and ground cable to positive). Consult your electrode manufacturer's recommendations.
- Connect Power: Ensure the welder's power switch is in the OFF position. Connect the power plug to a suitable 230 V +/-15% mains outlet with a 16 A fuse. The PFC function allows for stable operation even with long extension cords or a generator.
Figure 5.1: Migatronic Focus STICK 161E PFC unit with connected electrode and ground cables.
6. Operating Instructions
This section outlines the basic operation of your welding machine.
- Power On: Turn the main power switch to the ON position. The machine will perform a self-check.
- Adjust Welding Current: Use the single control knob on the front panel to set the desired welding current. The range is from 20 to 160 amperes. Refer to your electrode manufacturer's recommendations for optimal current settings for your specific electrode diameter and material thickness.
- Electrode Polarity: Ensure the electrode and ground cables are connected to the correct terminals (+/-) based on the type of electrode you are using (basic or rutile).
- TIG Welding (Scratch Ignition): For TIG welding, connect a TIG torch (not included) to the appropriate terminal and ensure a gas supply if required. Initiate the arc by scratching the tungsten electrode lightly against the workpiece.
- Begin Welding: Once settings are configured and safety precautions are in place, you can begin your welding task.
Figure 6.1: Close-up view of the control panel, showing the current adjustment knob and electrode terminals.
7. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your welding machine.
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the exterior of the machine with a dry, soft cloth. Ensure ventilation openings are free from dust and debris. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.
- Cable Inspection: Regularly inspect all cables (power, electrode, ground) for cuts, cracks, or signs of wear. Replace damaged cables immediately to prevent electrical hazards.
- Terminal Connections: Check that all cable connections to the machine are tight and secure. Loose connections can cause overheating and poor performance.
- Storage: Store the welding machine in a clean, dry, and dust-free environment when not in use. Protect it from extreme temperatures and humidity.
8. Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Machine does not power on. | No power from outlet; power switch off; internal fuse tripped. | Check power outlet and circuit breaker. Ensure power switch is ON. Contact service if problem persists. |
| No welding arc. | Poor ground connection; incorrect polarity; electrode not making contact; machine in thermal overload. | Ensure ground clamp has good contact. Verify correct polarity. Check electrode contact. Allow machine to cool down if overload indicator is on. |
| Weak or unstable arc. | Low input voltage; incorrect current setting; worn electrode. | Check power supply. Adjust current setting. Replace electrode. |
| Machine overheats. | Exceeded duty cycle; poor ventilation; blocked air vents. | Allow machine to cool. Ensure adequate ventilation. Clear any obstructions from air vents. |
For issues not listed here or if troubleshooting steps do not resolve the problem, please contact Migatronic customer support or an authorized service center.
9. Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Mains Voltage | 230 V +/-15% |
| Fuse | 16 A |
| Duty Cycle 40 °C 100% | 110 A / 24.4 V |
| Duty Cycle 40 °C 60% | 130 A / 25.2 V |
| Open Circuit Voltage | 85 V |
| Current Range | 20-160 A |
| Protection Class | IP 23S |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 230 x 150 x 380 mm |
| Weight | 6.3 kg |
| Manufacturer | Migatronic |
| Part Number | 79337042 |
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries regarding your Migatronic Focus STICK 161E PFC welder, please contact Migatronic customer service directly or refer to the warranty card included with your purchase. You may also reach out to your authorized Migatronic dealer for assistance.
Please have your product model and serial number (if applicable) ready when contacting support.
