1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation of your Amico ARC-200 2-in-1 Combo Welder. The ARC-200 is a professional Stick Arc and Lift-TIG welding machine utilizing advanced inverter technology. It is designed to provide a strong, concentrated, and stable arc for various welding tasks. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the equipment and retain it for future reference.
1.1 Safety Precautions
WARNING: Welding can be dangerous. Always follow safety guidelines to prevent serious injury or death.
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including welding helmet, gloves, protective clothing, and safety shoes.
- Ensure adequate ventilation to avoid inhaling welding fumes.
- Protect bystanders from arc rays and hot metal.
- Never weld near flammable materials.
- Ensure the machine is properly grounded.
- Disconnect power before performing any maintenance or service.
- Do not operate the welder in wet conditions.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- Amico ARC-200 Pro. Stick Arc Welding Machine
- 8-feet Power Cord & 6-50P plug (pre-installed on the machine)
- 230V to 115V Power Adapter
- 300 Amp Electrode Holder, 10 feet Cable, 35-50 mm Connect
- 300 Amp Work Clamp, 10 feet Cable, 35-50 mm Connect
- 2 Pieces Electrode of 3/32 in.
- 2 Pieces Electrode of 3/16 in.
- Owner’s Manual (this document)
Image 2.1: Amico ARC-200 Welder with all included accessories, including the machine, power cord, adapter, electrode holder, work clamp, and sample electrodes.
Image 2.2: Close-up of the 300 Amp electrode holder with its cable and a set of sample welding electrodes.
Image 2.3: Close-up of the 300 Amp work clamp with its attached cable.
Image 2.4: The included 230V to 115V power adapter for versatile power input.
3. Key Features
- 2-in-1 Welding Capability: Combines Stick Arc and Lift-TIG welding functions.
- Wide Voltage Input: Automatic detection and compatibility with 100~250V/50~60Hz input power.
- High Duty Cycle: 80% duty cycle at 200 Amps (230V) / 145 Amps (115V) for extended welding periods.
- Advanced IGBT Inverter Technology: Provides superior arc characteristics and stability.
- Electrode Compatibility: Supports various electrodes including E6010, E6011, E6013, E7014, E7018.
- Adjustable Arc Force: Allows customization of arc characteristics for different welding needs.
- Built-in Functions: Hot start, anti-stick, thrust adjustment, and current-intensity control.
- Protection Features: Over-voltage, under-voltage, over-current, and over-load protection.
- Extended Power Cord Support: Maintains performance with power cords up to 700 feet.
4. Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | ARC-200 |
| Rated Input Voltage | AC 100~250V |
| Frequency | 50~60Hz |
| Rated Input Power (230V) | 8.2KVA / 35.7A |
| Rated Input Power (115V) | 5.8KVA / 50A |
| Current Range (230V) | 5~200 Amp |
| Current Range (115V) | 5~145 Amp |
| Force Current (230V) | 0~50 Amp |
| Force Current (115V) | 0~10 Amp |
| Rated Duty Cycle (230V) | 80% @ 200 Amp |
| Rated Duty Cycle (115V) | 80% @ 145 Amp |
| Nominal DC Open Circuit Voltage | 83V |
| Usable Electrode (230V) | 1/16~1/4 in. |
| Usable Electrode (115V) | 1/16~5/32 in. |
| Power Factor | 0.93 |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 15.75 x 6.2 x 11.3 in. |
| Net Weight | 17.0 lbs. |
| Certification | ETL Listed |
5. Initial Setup
Follow these steps to prepare your welder for operation:
- Unpacking and Inspection: Carefully remove the welder and all accessories from the packaging. Inspect for any shipping damage. Report any damage to the carrier and supplier immediately.
- Power Connection:
- The ARC-200 automatically detects input voltage (100-250V).
- For 230V operation, connect the pre-installed 6-50P plug directly to a compatible 230V outlet.
- For 115V operation, use the provided 230V to 115V power adapter. Connect the welder's 6-50P plug to the adapter, then plug the adapter into a 115V outlet.
Image 5.1: Rear view of the welder, illustrating the power input connection and the circuit breaker switch.
- Connect Work Clamp: Insert the work clamp cable connector into the negative (-) output terminal on the front panel and twist to secure. Attach the clamp securely to the workpiece, ensuring good electrical contact.
- Connect Electrode Holder: Insert the electrode holder cable connector into the positive (+) output terminal on the front panel and twist to secure.
- Power On: Flip the main power switch located on the rear panel to the 'ON' position. The digital display on the front panel will illuminate.
Image 5.2: Front-side view of the Amico ARC-200 welder, showing the control panel and output terminals.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Control Panel Overview
Image 6.1: Detailed view of the Amico ARC-200 control panel, highlighting the digital display, current/voltage selector, and arc force knob.
- Digital Display: Shows welding current (Amps).
- Current Adjustment Knob: Adjusts the welding current (Amps).
- Arc Force Knob: Adjusts the arc force for Stick welding.
- Mode Selector Switch: Toggles between Stick Arc and Lift-TIG welding modes.
- Voltage Selector Switch (115V/230V): This switch is for display purposes only; the machine automatically detects input voltage.
6.2 Stick Arc Welding (MMA)
- Ensure the mode selector is set to 'Stick Arc'.
- Select an appropriate electrode for your material and thickness. Insert the electrode into the electrode holder.
- Adjust the welding current using the current adjustment knob. Refer to electrode manufacturer guidelines for recommended current settings.
- Adjust the Arc Force knob. Higher arc force can help prevent the electrode from sticking and improve penetration.
- Strike an arc by lightly touching the electrode to the workpiece and quickly lifting it slightly to establish the arc. Maintain a consistent arc length and travel speed.
6.3 Lift-TIG Welding
For Lift-TIG welding, additional TIG torch and gas supply (not included) are required.
- Ensure the mode selector is set to 'Lift-TIG'.
- Connect your TIG torch (with gas line) to the appropriate terminals and gas supply.
- Adjust the welding current using the current adjustment knob.
- Initiate the arc by gently touching the tungsten electrode to the workpiece and then lifting it slightly. The arc will ignite without high-frequency interference.
- Maintain a consistent arc length and feed filler rod as needed.
7. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your welder.
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the internal components of the welder using dry compressed air to remove dust and metal particles. Ensure the power is disconnected before cleaning.
- Cable Inspection: Regularly inspect all welding cables, connections, and the power cord for damage, fraying, or loose connections. Replace damaged components immediately.
- Storage: Store the welder in a clean, dry environment, away from excessive dust, moisture, and corrosive materials.
- Fan Vents: Ensure the cooling fan vents are clear of obstructions to allow proper airflow.
8. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter. For problems not listed here, contact customer support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Welder does not power on | No power from outlet; Power switch off; Internal circuit breaker tripped | Check power outlet; Ensure power switch is ON; Reset internal circuit breaker on rear panel. |
| No welding arc | Loose connections; Incorrect current setting; Work clamp not properly attached; Electrode issue | Check all cable connections; Adjust current; Ensure work clamp has good contact; Use a dry, appropriate electrode. |
| Weak or unstable arc | Low current setting; Poor work clamp connection; Incorrect electrode type; Long extension cord causing voltage drop | Increase current; Improve work clamp contact; Use correct electrode; Use a heavier gauge extension cord or shorter length. |
| Overheating protection activated | Exceeded duty cycle; Insufficient ventilation; High ambient temperature | Allow welder to cool down; Ensure fan vents are clear; Operate in a cooler environment. |
| Electrode sticks frequently | Low current; Insufficient arc force; Incorrect electrode angle | Increase current; Increase arc force setting; Adjust electrode angle. |
8.1 Built-in Protection Features
The ARC-200 is equipped with automatic compensation for voltage fluctuations and various protection mechanisms:
- Over-voltage protection
- Under-voltage protection
- Over-current protection
- Over-load protection
If any of these protections are triggered, the machine may temporarily cease operation or display an error code. Allow the machine to cool down or rectify the input power issue before resuming operation.
9. Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official AmicoPower website. If you require technical assistance or have questions regarding your ARC-200 welder, please contact AmicoPower customer support through their official channels.
