He Converts Old AC Welders

He Converts Old AC Welders FARM SHOP Welders/Torches (64) 21-1-31 Melvin Carlson, Buffalo, Kan.: Melvin's come up with a slick way to convert old AC welders, ranging in size from 0 to 500 amps, to DC to reduce splatter and get more penetration with a smoother weld. "I've converted my three Lincoln TM 300's as well as a couple of my neighbors' Lincoln 225's," he says. "I make a box out of 3/8-in. thick plate steel that attaches to the bottom of the welder and houses the new components. It has caster wheels so you can roll the welder around. "I install four 500 amp diodes (smaller ones would probably work, too) to make a bridge diode. It mounts on an aluminum heat sink to keep it cool. I insulate the heat sink from the welder's frame with insulating board or rubber. I insert a cu~tabilizer on the negative line to smooth out the flow of current. "I make conversion kits for $225 FOB." Contact: Melvin Carlson, Mortgage Hill Farm, Box 66, Buffalo, Kan. 66717 (ph 316 537-6590)."

To read the rest of this story, download this issue below or click here to register with your account number.